續惡魔

by Jun'ichiro Tanizaki

"續惡魔" by Jun'ichiro Tanizaki is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book delves into psychological themes, primarily exploring the tumultuous and obsessive relationship between the protagonist, Saeki, and his cousin, Teruko. The narrative is steeped in the anxieties and fears surrounding their interactions, leading to tension and emotional turmoil. The opening of "續惡魔" introduces Saeki, who is plagued by escalating fears and anxieties, primarily driven by his fear of earthquakes and the deterioration of his mental state. As the story unfolds, readers see Saeki's heightened paranoia manifest in his responses to minor disturbances in his surroundings. His interactions with his cousin Teruko reveal a mix of affection and irritation, as she intrudes into his solitude and exacerbates his fragile psychological condition. The atmosphere is charged with tension, underscoring Saeki’s fragile state of mind and the complexity of his feelings towards Teruko, hinting at deeper conflicts to emerge as the story progresses.