Introduction
Japanese light novels or “ranobe” in Japan, are a popular form of literature that originated in Japan and has gained popularity around the world. These novels often incorporate a variety of literary techniques to convey deeper meaning to the reader. In this article, we will explore the literary technique of symbolism in Japanese light novels.
Defining Symbology
So let’s start off by defining symbolism. According to the Merriman-Webster dictionary:
Symbolism is frequently employed in Japanese light novels to portray ideas and feelings that are difficult to explain with words alone. By using symbols, authors look to create a deeper level of meaning that resonates with readers on a subconscious level.
The Cherry Blossom
The cherry blossom is a frequent emblem in Japanese light novels, and I’m sure practically all of you reading this have seen it throughout other types of Japanese art. In Japan, cherry blossoms are a symbol of renewal and the transient nature of life. A good example of this is the annual Cherry Blossom Festival held in Washington D.C. every year. The festival attracts thousands of visitors, and I personally have been dragged there quite a few times. I digress, but the festival only lasts a short period of time each year, reminding us of the fleeting nature of all things.
Cherry blossoms are frequently utilized in light novels to depict ephemeral moments of bliss or the impermanence of a character’s existence. In the light novel “Your Lie in April” by Naoshi Arakawa, for example, the main heroine Kaori is frequently connected with cherry blossoms, signifying her brief and tragic existence.
The Moon
Another common symbol used in Japanese light novels is the moon. The moon is frequently connected with beauty and mystery in Japanese culture and is sometimes also associated with the passage of time. Japanese light novel authors try to capture this meaning in their novels, usually with key characters in their stories. A famous example of moon symbolism can be seen in Nagaru Tanigawa’s light novel “The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya”. The female protagonist Haruhi is related to the moon in Tanigawa’s portrayal, showing her enigmatic and unpredictable personality traits.
The Use of Color
The use of color symbolism is also prevalent in Japanese light novels. Colors are often used to represent different emotions or ideas. Red, for example, is frequently connected with passion and love, whereas blue is often linked with sadness and melancholy. The main character Shiro in Yuu Kamiya’s light novel “No Game No Life” frequently resonates with the color white, signifying her innocence and purity.
The Use of Animals
Animals are another common symbol used in Japanese light novels. Each animal has its own symbolic meaning and is often used to represent different traits or qualities. The fox, for example, is associated with deception and cunning, but the wolf is associated with power and loyalty. Animal representation is in my opinion best represented in Isuna Hasekura’s light novel “Spice and Wolf”. The female lead Holo is a wolf goddess that epitomizes the virtues of loyalty and cunning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, symbolism is a popular literary device utilized in Japanese light novels. To impart deeper meaning to the reader, the symbols mentioned above and many more are frequently employed. Authors often employ symbolism to generate a higher depth of meaning that ties with readers subconsciously. As a result, symbolism is a significant part of the storytelling experience in Japanese light novels, adding to their allure.
