I specialize in modern German literature from the early 20th century, specifically in the period between World War I and II. Within the realm of German literature, my primary focus is on Austrian literature.

My graduate thesis explored Karl Kraus, author of “The Last Days of Mankind,” known for publishing a satirical cultural magazine where he spent over 30 years criticizing society and propaganda by analyzing newspapers.

For my doctoral thesis, I delved into Franz Werfel, another Jewish Austrian writer notable for his work “Star of the Unborn.” Set in the future, this book can be described as a hybrid of a utopian and dystopian novel, featuring a wide variety of innovative sci-fi vocabulary. I analyzed the genesis and significance of newly coined words.

I am intrigued by the pluricentric nature of the German language: a language that has several standard varieties, each associated with a different country or region. These standard varieties should be valued equally and serve as standard forms of the language in their respective areas.

Unlike dialects, these varieties have developed from cultural, historical, and sociological influences, helping to create distinct differences. While German is spoken in multiple countries, such as Germany, Switzerland and Austria, each region has its standard variety. After World War II, Austria developed a distinct identity from Germany, leading to institutionalized efforts, such as the publication of the first Austrian-German dictionary, the recognition of Austrian authors with literary awards, and the establishment of an Austrian German language certificate.

I am promoting Austrian literature in Japan, aiming to expand awareness and appreciation beyond the common perception of German literature solely from Germany. Austrian literature is part of German-language literature. However, given the diverse historical, political, and traditional contexts of each country, the themes explored in literature naturally vary.

My goal is to highlight the distinctiveness of Austrian literature and enrich the Japanese perspective of German literature. An annual symposium on Austrian contemporary literature is hosted in Japan. I help in organizing this event, where I also deliver presentations on Austrian literature.

Analyzing German speakers’ impressions of Japan through German movies and books

I am also engaged in intercultural research between Japan and German-speaking regions, examining how Japan is portrayed in writings and movies from these regions. I aim to comprehend the impressions German speakers have of Japan and analyze the fascination typically depicted in numerous dramas set in Japan.

This fascination has roots dating back to the late 19th century when Japan’s participation in the World Expo in Europe sparked curiosity among Austrian artists like Gustav Klimt.

Analyzing contemporary works from the 1980s and 1990s, I observe a heightened interest in Japanese culture, particularly among the younger generation, who are drawn to aspects like anime and cosplay. The translation of Japanese manga into German signifies a cross-cultural exchange, as manga has become increasingly popular in German-speaking communities.

Exploring visual poetry in German and Japanese

My recent research is on visual poetry, specifically concrete poetry – an art form designed to be seen rather than read. This unique genre combines visual elements with written language, where the spatial arrangement and the layout of the text are as crucial as the words themselves. These poems employ innovative layouts, typography, and visual art to convey meaning, providing a powerful yet easily understandable experience.

I particularly explore German and Japanese artists in this field, examining cultural exchanges often marked by exhibitions in both countries. Translating these visual poems proves challenging, requiring not only linguistic transfer, but a thoughtful transition and interpretation of the original work. I am intrigued by visual poetry’s role in language systems across different languages, emphasizing the transformation of original works within each language’s nuances and the science of linguistics.

As for Japanese students starting to learn German, my goal is to expose them to another culture, fostering an interest in studying abroad, particularly in German-speaking countries. The acquisition of both language and cultural knowledge would undoubtedly prove beneficial for their personal and academic growth.

The book I recommend

“Verstörung”
by Thomas Bernhard, published by Suhrkamp Verlag

The author is an Austrian writer of the second half of the 20th century. The title, which translates to “derangement,” is a novel about a doctor and his son in the countryside and their encounters with a wide variety of patients. Among them is a solitary pessimistic aristocrat who rants about his life. This character’s extended monologue, exemplifying Bernhard’s distinctive writing style, is so pessimistic to the point that it’s almost comical.

Interviewed: December 2023