Dogs and Demons
I just finished reading "Dogs and Demons" by Alex Kerr, and it presents a very negative picture of Japan. I'm still not quite sure what to make of it. On the one hand I can't help but think that a lot of what he claims is true, but on the other hand how information is presented can be just as important as the cold hard facts themselves. I lived in Kyoto for a year, so I've seen some of the things he talks about (seeing them in a new light after reading) and can't say that he's talking out his ass. He's pretty passionate, and that makes him convincing, but at the same time it's when people get real passionate that the true situation tends to get distorted. Over all, reading it just made me feel real depressed about what I've decided to study. A sort of "Should've taken Chinese, dammit!" sort of thought process. Some of the information is a little outdated too. I'd be interested to know how the recent privatization of the postal system effects some of his arguments.
Anyway, anyone else read this and can tell me what they think of it? Or maybe point me in the direction of something a little more objective or hopeful but not starry-eyed?
Anyway, anyone else read this and can tell me what they think of it? Or maybe point me in the direction of something a little more objective or hopeful but not starry-eyed?