On September 9, 1944, Yukio Mishima, a bright student at Tokyo’s Gakushūin High School, graduated at the top of his class. Known for his literary talents, he had already made a name for himself under the pen name Yukio Mishima. His work caught the attention of notable figures, including the Shinto scholar Zenmei Hasuda, who praised him as a prodigy destined for greatness. After the ceremony, Mishima received a silver watch from Emperor Hirohito, a moment he cherished for the rest of his life.
However, his path took a sharp turn in February 1945, when he was drafted into the military. Mishima, feeling unwell and weak, was misdiagnosed with tuberculosis during his pre-enlistment medical exam, which deemed him unfit for service. This news shocked him, as he had prepared for the possibility of joining the kamikaze pilots, who were known for their suicide missions. Despite his parents’ relief, Mishima’s disappointment lingered. He believed the kamikaze pilots represented a new understanding of modernity and felt compelled to honor their sacrifice.
August 15, 1945, marked a pivotal moment in Japan’s history, as Emperor Hirohito announced Japan’s surrender following the devastation of World War II. For many, including Mishima, this moment was heartbreaking. He vowed to use his writing to preserve Japanese culture amid the chaos of post-war reconstruction. He believed that Japan’s spiritual essence was at risk of being lost to Western materialism.
Fast forward to November 25, 1970, Mishima had become a renowned literary figure, producing an impressive body of work, including novels, plays, and essays. He was not just a writer; he was also a martial artist and a cultural icon. Yet, he felt a profound sense of loss for Japan’s traditional values. In response, he formed a private militia called the Tatenokai to uphold the dignity of the imperial family and preserve Japanese culture.
On November 25, Mishima and four members of the Tatenokai stormed a military base in Tokyo, hoping to inspire a coup to restore the emperor’s direct rule. However, the soldiers showed little interest in his vision. After a failed attempt to rally them, Mishima returned inside and took his own life through seppuku, a traditional form of ritual suicide. His death shocked the nation and marked the end of a complex and controversial life.
Mishima’s last wishes were honored, and he was cremated in his militia uniform. His legacy continues to spark discussions about nationalism, cultural identity, and the role of the emperor in modern Japan. As we reflect on his life, we see a man deeply concerned with the meaning of existence and the spirit of his country. His works remain relevant, inviting readers to ponder the values and beliefs that shape a nation.
