“Underground” by Haruki Murakami delves into the profound and haunting aftermath of the 1995 Tokyo subway sarin gas attack. This compelling work of non-fiction presents a collection of interviews with survivors, perpetrators, and witnesses, offering a deeply human exploration of the event and its far-reaching impact on Japanese society.

In “Underground,” Murakami weaves together personal accounts that illuminate the psychological, emotional, and physical ramifications of the attack. Through his empathetic approach, he creates a mosaic of voices that reveal the diverse experiences and perspectives of those directly involved in the tragedy.

The book is divided into two parts. The first part comprises interviews with survivors who recount their harrowing experiences of the attack, sharing their fears, traumas, and efforts to rebuild their lives in the aftermath. Murakami’s compassionate storytelling delves into the resilience and strength of these individuals as they grapple with the profound effects of a senseless act of violence.

The second part focuses on interviews with members of the religious cult responsible for the attack, providing an unsettling glimpse into the motivations and ideologies that drove their actions. Murakami skillfully navigates the complexities of these interviews, seeking to understand the minds of the perpetrators while shedding light on the distorted belief systems that led to such an act of terror.

Throughout “Underground,” Murakami’s prose is both sensitive and incisive, capturing the raw emotions and profound introspection of those involved. He explores themes of trauma, memory, guilt, and the quest for understanding, painting a vivid portrait of a society grappling with the aftermath of a devastating event.

This work stands as a testament to Murakami’s ability to blend journalism, storytelling, and profound empathy. “Underground” offers readers a nuanced exploration of a tragic event that shook an entire nation, inviting us to confront the darkest aspects of human nature while also highlighting the enduring resilience and hope that can emerge from the depths of tragedy.

For readers seeking a compelling work of non-fiction that delves into the complexities of human experience and the reverberations of a major historical event, “Underground” is a powerful and poignant exploration that will leave a lasting impact.