Summary of the work - Sykalo Eugen 2023

Short summary - The Face of Another by Kobo Abe

"The Face of Another" is a novel by Kobo Abe that delves deep into the human psyche, exploring the themes of identity, society, and the individual. The book is divided into three parts, each of which is crucial to the plot and the development of the story.

In Part One, we are introduced to the protagonist, Mr. Okada, who has suffered severe burns to his face after a chemical explosion at his workplace. This has left him disfigured, and he is forced to wear a mask to conceal his appearance. Due to the trauma of his injury and the social stigma attached to disfigurement, Okada becomes an outcast in society, and his relationship with his wife deteriorates.

Desperate for a solution, Okada seeks the help of a psychiatrist who suggests an experiment that involves creating a lifelike mask that will allow Okada to blend in with society. The mask is so realistic that it is impossible to tell that he is wearing one. Initially hesitant, Okada agrees to the experiment, and he becomes a new person with the mask, interacting with the world again.

Part Two takes a different turn as Okada, now known as "The Stranger," begins to manipulate people while wearing the mask. He uses his new identity to fulfill his desires and engage in unethical behavior. He becomes increasingly detached from reality and begins to question his own identity.

Okada's wife, who has been struggling to come to terms with his disfigurement, becomes attracted to "The Stranger," who she believes is a different person. This leads to a complex and emotional struggle between Okada and his wife. The novel raises important questions about the nature of identity, the relationship between the individual and society, and the consequences of manipulating one's identity to fulfill personal desires.

Part Three is the climax of the book, where Okada's mask is stolen, and he is forced to confront his true identity. He becomes lost in a world where he no longer knows who he is or how he fits into society. The novel explores the concept of identity and whether it is something that can be created or destroyed.

Throughout the book, Abe's unique narrative structure and complex characters keep the reader engaged and questioning their own assumptions about identity and society. The themes of disfigurement, societal pressure, and the search for identity are explored in great detail, leading to an emotional and thought-provoking conclusion.

In conclusion, "The Face of Another" is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of human identity and the role of society in shaping it. Abe's masterful writing and intricate storyline make this novel a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today.