This was an assigned novel for my Hospital Stories Seminar class, but it definitely deserves it's 4.5 star rating. I didn't have much information on the book going in and therefore likely didn't have very high expectations. Suffice to say the writing style and descriptions and imagery from Endo truly changed my mind. Following several characters and the foils between all of them and their own backstories all set within the backdrop of the war and the humanity of each character and the rationalisation behind their choices and participation in vivisections on prisoners of war was a surprisingly more compelling storyline than I would have thought. I basically finished this book in one sitting. It took me a fair bit longer than I had expected— from around 6:30 or 7 pm to 11 pm. I did highlight and take extensive notes as I read so I suppose that could be reason enough. I do want to say I felt the ending of the book seemed a little hurried or unfinished. Perhaps Endo had meant to do so though. Either way I really loved seeing the differences and similarities between Suguru and Todo— they're such compelling and realistic characters. The almost sideplot of Hilda and the Nurse were also incredibly interesting. This book contained so many layers and thoughts beyond just the question of doctors and what is best for patients, but also meditations on relationships and the somewhat futility of life. I think there's more to be said about the one man who sat digging up the same poplar tree day in and day out... especially as the frail arms of the old woman faded away and the dripping red flag with hackneyed phrases of support went out to a prisoner somewhere out on the field that had lost his mother. Her gnawing on some dextrose and getting slapped by a doctor— that, too, the most compassionate doctor of the lot. This book taught me so much and reminded me of exactly why I'm working to be a doctor and reaffirmed my decisions. Furthermore, it even convinced me that I am someone who feels deeply and compassionately for patients. The distance that Todo felt from his patients wasn't something at all that I could really relate to at this point in my life/career and for that realisation I am beyond grateful. This book is nothing like anything I've read recently nor is it something that I would have ever decided to/elected to pick up of my own volition, but I'm beyond grateful for it. Can't believe this shit happened fr irl... crazy shit. Cannot wait for the discussion about this book in class!