Jagoda Kamov
No Longer Human
I feared people the more I was liked, and the more I was liked the more I feared them a process which eventually compelled me to run way from everybody

Paradox 'No Longer Human' by Jagoda N. Winter
Published by Snow liv. FALL 2024
"Paradox," which was deeply influenced by Osamu Dazai's impactful book, "No Longer Human." As an artist, Dazai's work resonated with me from a young age, shaping my perspectives and inspiring my own artistic expression.
Growing up, I found solace in Dazai's exploration of complex themes and emotions, which mirrored the challenges and uncertainties I faced in my personal life. This connection prompted me to reflect on and interrogate my own experiences, ultimately leading me to create "Paradox."
In "No Longer Human," Dazai delves into the human psyche and the struggle to reconcile societal expectations with one's true self. The book served as a catalyst for my essay, as I sought to examine these themes through the lens of my own experiences. By intertwining personal anecdotes with philosophical musings, I aimed to capture the essence of human vulnerability and resilience in the face of adversity.
The process of writing "Paradox" allowed me to engage with the profound impact Dazai's work had on my life and to contribute to the ongoing conversation about the human condition. I hope that readers will connect with my essay as I have connected with "No Longer Human," finding inspiration and solace in the shared human experience.
reserche and development

I yearned for everything long gone.
"No Longer Human" stands as a pivotal thread, woven into the fabric of my existence from the corridors of high school to the bustling streets of adulthood. Its narrative, a haunting exploration of alienation and existential turmoil, has echoed through the chambers of my soul, resonating with the depths of my being in a way that few works of literature ever have. The journey began in my high school years, a time of tumult and uncertainty, where I often felt like a solitary figure adrift in a sea of faces. It was then that I stumbled upon Dazai's masterpiece, and from the moment I turned its pages, I knew that this was more than just a book—it was a lifeline. The protagonist's struggle with identity and disconnection from society mirrored my own, offering solace and understanding in a world that often felt incomprehensible.
As I ventured into adulthood, the themes of "No Longer Human" continued to accompany me, guiding me through the labyrinthine corridors of self-discovery. Even in the bustling metropolis of London, where the cacophony of life threatened to drown out the whispers of introspection, Dazai's words remained a constant companion, reminding me of the universality of human experience. Now, as I embark on the journey of adaptation, I find myself drawn once more to the heart of Dazai's narrative—the protagonist's relentless quest for authenticity in a world that seems determined to erase it.
At the core of this adaptation lies the protagonist's struggle with his sense of self and his place in the world. It is a journey that encapsulates the raw essence of human existence—the longing for connection, the search for meaning, and the relentless pursuit of authenticity.
Central to this adaptation are the themes of alienation, isolation, and the quest for identity. Against the backdrop of a world where digital communication often supplants genuine human connection, the protagonist's journey serves as a mirror to our own struggles in an age dominated by appearances. Through his mundane experiences and profound existential crises, we are invited to confront the complexities of our own existence and ponder the elusive nature of authenticity.
Moreover, I weave elements of absurdity into the narrative, highlighting the irrational and unpredictable nature of life. It is a reminder that amidst the chaos and uncertainty, there is beauty to be found in the absurdity of existence, and that perhaps, therein lies the key to unlocking the mysteries of our own humanity. By situating the protagonist's journey in a modern context, this adaptation aims to highlight the enduring relevance of Dazai's themes.
The integration of contemporary societal issues, such as the impact of social media on self-perception and relationships, serves to connect the audience with the narrative on a deeply personal level, encouraging them to reflect on their own experiences of alienation and the evolving nature of identity in today's world.
In essence, this adaptation of "No Longer Human" is more than just a creative endeavor—it is a journey of self-discovery and understanding, a testament to the enduring power of literature to illuminate the darkest corners of the human soul. Through the protagonist's quest for authenticity, we are reminded of our own capacity for resilience and growth, and of the timeless truths that bind us together as fellow travelers on this tumultuous journey called life.

Panel Talk with japanese Foundation
Panel Talk Guest:
Dr Irene Haytor
Dr Irena Hayter is Associate Professor of Japanese Studies at the University of Leeds, UK, where she teaches modern Japanese literature, film and cultural history. She is the co-editor of Tenkō: Cultures of Political Conversion in Trans-war Japan (2021).Together with the literary translator James Garza, Irena is currently working on the English edition of Dazai Osamu’s first published collection of short stories, The Final Years (1935).
Jagoda N. Winter
Jagoda Kamov, a dynamic theatre director, writer, and actress, embodies a rich heritage blending Italian, Croatian, and Japanese influences, infusing her work with a globally-inspired perspective. As a Resident Artist with Babel Theatre, known for innovative multidisciplinary productions, Kamov's directing projects explore the complexities of human existence. Notable works include The Dumb Man (2022), delving into escapism, Coco (2021), celebrating friendship and healing, and Puggo's Dream (2019), exploring existential themes. Kamov's contemporary approach integrates dark psychology and surrealism, aiming to make a lasting impact on audiences.
MIURA Motoi
Born in 1973, MIURA graduated from Toho Gakuen College of Drama and Music. Joining Seinendan Theater Company in 1996, he later studied in Paris for two years on a government scholarship. Returning to Japan in 2001, he founded CHITEN and directed premieres of plays by Jon Fosse and David Harrower. Winning awards including the Toga Director Contest, he recreated Chekhov's masterpieces and received the Agency of Cultural Affairs New Director Award for The Cherry Orchard. In 2010, he received the Kyoto Prefecture Culture Award and published his first book on production theory. His notable productions include Philip Glass's opera In the Penal Colony (2008), Elfriede Jelinek’s Kein Licht (2012), and Beltort Brecht's Fatzer (2013).
There will be a brief overview of DAZAI by Dr Irena Hytar, University of Leeds, at the beginning of this session.
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