To introduce someone to Murakami, gift a short story collection and point to one specific story instead of a 600-page novel; Tamir finds nine out of ten people actually read it.
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More practices from this episode
- Turn threats into metaphors
When a person or situation feels menacing, picture it as a Murakami-style metaphor (a small Commendatore in the corner) so you can see it without taking it too seriously.
- Murakami's daily routine
Murakami wakes around 4 a.m., writes for several hours, then runs; the rest of the day is unscheduled, and he goes to bed by 8 or 9 p.m.
- Borrow the characters' slow rituals
Adopt the unhurried routines of Murakami's characters: take time to cook, exercise and reflect.
- Read fiction alongside non-fiction
Keep a hybrid reading diet: pair self-improvement non-fiction with fiction for perspective, reflection and imagination.
- Join a book club outside your taste
Join a book club that picks books you'd never choose yourself, to expose yourself to new ideas; this is how Tamir found Murakami.
- Don't force the writing
Jot down thoughts whenever they pop up and wait for the real urge or idea rather than forcing a novel; trust the process.