Maha Harada's latest novel Number Nine shines the spotlight on Shanghai. A Chinese translation of the book by Shanghai native Zhu Yifei, is now available.
While basically a cross-cultural love story, it tells of more than a romance. In hopes of developing a relationship with Wang Jian, whom she falls in love with at first sight at a chance encounter in Tokyo, Japanese girl Fukazawa follows him to Shanghai, based on secret tips left by Wang in a ring case.
Her life takes a dramatically different turn when she finds two more ring cases with Wang's notes in.
Pursuing the sweet dream that she has woven, Fukazawa stays at No 9 apartment in a Shanghai lane. There, she discovers and hones her talents in appreciating contemporary Chinese paintings. She becomes Wang's mistress and an art agent, until her dream is shattered.
A masseur saves her from the brink of destruction. She finally returns to Tokyo and starts anew as an art professional.
Zhu says the book is about a woman's rebirth and quest for a truer and stronger self. Harada's very realistic depictions of Shanghai, are vivid and touching, he says.(Mei Jia) |
