Just finished reading “The Factory” by Hiroko Oyamada! It is a thought-provoking and enigmatic novella that takes readers on a surreal journey into the depths of a mysterious, self-sufficient industrial complex. Oyamada’s work, brilliantly translated into English by David Boyd, offers a unique narrative structure, switching between the perspectives of three central characters who embark on their new lives within the sprawling confines of “the factory.”
The setting of “The Factory” is as intriguing as it is disorienting. Located in an unidentified Japanese city, the factory is not just a place of employment but a self-contained microcosm of society. It boasts a bewildering array of amenities, from living quarters to temples, museums, restaurants, and even its own ecosystem of peculiar animals with curious behaviours. The author masterfully weaves this setting into the narrative, evoking a sense of otherworldly intrigue that keeps readers hooked.
The plot unfolds gradually over a fifteen-year span, primarily focusing on the experiences of the three protagonists. Yoshiko Ushiyama, a character who initially feels unworthy of the factory’s grandeur, offers a poignant exploration of identity and purpose as she descends into a state of existential crisis. Her transformation from a hopeful job applicant to an integral part of the factory’s mystique is both haunting and mesmerizing.
Yoshio Furufue’s journey as a moss specialist adds an element of ecological curiosity to the narrative. His gradual realization of his diminishing relevance within the factory paralleled with his research on the factory’s fauna, creates a sense of alienation and unease that resonates with readers.
The unnamed brother of Yoshiko Ushiyama provides yet another layer to the novella, shedding light on the mundane and repetitive nature of work within the factory. His struggle to stay awake during monotonous proofreading tasks serves as a metaphor for the dehumanizing aspects of modern employment, inviting readers to reflect on their own sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Oyamada’s prose is both poetic and haunting, masterfully capturing the eerie atmosphere of the factory and the characters’ growing sense of disconnection from the world outside. The novella’s open-ended conclusion leaves readers with lingering questions and a sense of ambiguity that is bound to provoke thought and discussion.
In “The Factory,” Hiroko Oyamada explores themes of identity, purpose, and the dehumanizing aspects of modern industrial society with a deft and unique touch. The novella’s dreamlike quality and its ability to blur the boundaries between reality and fantasy make it a compelling and unforgettable read for those who appreciate thought-provoking literature. “The Factory” is a literary gem that will continue to resonate with readers long after they have turned the final page.
