Kukavica

The novel follows the tragic fate of the young and noble Nami-ko (Nami-san), who marries the naval officer Takeo Kawashima. Their marriage initially exudes happiness and love, but it soon begins to be destroyed by illness (tuberculosis), a cruel mother-in-law, the intrigues of relatives, and old Japanese customs and social norms.

Tokutomi masterfully depicts the conflict between individual happiness and the traditional demands of family, society, and state. The novel is melodramatic, emotional, and realistic for its time — it criticizes the rigid patriarchal family structure, but at the same time glorifies sacrifice, loyalty, and purity of feelings. The title The Cuckoo (Hototogisu) symbolizes the bird whose sad voice is heard at the time of death and parting.

The book became a real phenomenon in Japan — it sold hundreds of thousands of copies and influenced generations of readers. It was published in Croatia at a time when Japanese literature was beginning to attract a European audience.

Today, The Coward is also read as a valuable window into Japan at the end of the 19th century — a time of rapid modernization, wars (the Sino-Japanese War) and profound social changes. The novel is moving, nostalgic and full of atmosphere, with a pronounced sense of sadness and the beauty of transience.

An excellent choice for fans of classical Asian literature, romantic tragedies and stories about the clash of tradition and modernity.