What a wonderful book! When I first read it, I was more moved by Kafka's journey. I found it very inspiring how much he wants to live, how persistent he is, and his return to the real world. As time has passed, I mostly think about Nakata and Hoshino! There are two greater themes I wanted to comment on, that have genuinley affected how I move through life:
Hoshino comments after Nakata's passing that he will never be alone again. His true friendship with Nakata will be a part of him forever. How beautiful, and how true! I think a true friendship will always be with you. Hoshino will forever think to himself, "here's what Nakata would say," or "Nakata would enjoy this." He may feel lonely, but he will never be alone. As I feel lonely, I now encourage myself to think of how the people who love me will always be with me. It reminds me of a poem by Hera Lindsey Bird, "I Will Already Remember You for the Rest of My Life. I hope you feel the same.