In Sun and Steel, one of Japan's most renowned - and controversial - authors crafts a bold and original work that defies traditional literary categories. Blending elements of memoir, philosophy, and personal essay, Yukio Mishima reflects on his journey from a frail, introspective boy to a man who found meaning through physical strength and discipline.
The "sun" and "steel" of the title symbolize the open air and the weights of bodybuilding, representing Mishima's embrace of the body alongside the mind. On one level, this is a deeply personal account of self-discovery and transformation. On another, it is a penetrating exploration of the tension between action and art, revealing how Mishima reconciled his rigorous physical pursuits with his refined literary craft. Ultimately, Sun and Steel offers a profound meditation on identity, self-integration, and the pursuit of an authentic life.