Haruki Murakami: My books have been criticised so much over the years, I don't pay much attention'

I decided to bide my time, until I'd acquired the necessary skill set as a writer, and only then do a complete rewrite of the story.

The situation of the town surrounded by walls was also a metaphor of the worldwide lockdown. How is it possible for both extreme isolation and warm feelings of empathy to coexist?

I think an outstanding novel will always aim to present some compelling questions but not give a clear-cut, straightforward conclusion.

I thought its theme was very important but unfortunately I lacked the writing skills at the time to convey it in the way I'd hoped to.

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