The Akutagawa Prize is probably Japan’s most celebrated literary award. To better understand the Akutagawa Prize and its place in modern Japanese literature, we’ll start with an introduction to the history of “literary” fiction in Japan. Then we’ll move on to the history of the Akutagawa Prize itself, from its creation in 1935 through its most recent winners. And then we’ll finish with a look at the life and career of Kobo Abe including his most famous book, The Woman in the Dunes. (CW: suicide, attempted rape in a novel) Notes and sources at the podcast episode website. Become an RJL supporter for ten minutes of bonus content. Support this podcast by buying from Bookshop.org