Abstract

"Why is life so incredibly hard to live?"

Tetsuo, the intellectual backbone of the comedy world and member of the duo Waraimeshi, confronts the true nature of the self-loathing and alienation that plague modern society. Infused with his unique philosophy and razor-sharp humor, this full-length novel tackles the poignant question: "Are we just terrible at being human?"

The protagonist is a taxi driver who thought he had claimed a sense of personal solitude by casting off the cage of corporate organization and taking the wheel. However, the fangs of an irrational society ruthlessly tear through even that modest sanctuary.

What awaits him at the very end? Utter ruin, or...?

Editor-in-Chief’s Comment
"We have received an absolutely staggering manuscript. I started reading it as part of my usual routine, but the dizzying, breathtaking development of the story took over my emotions, to the point where I completely forgot about work."

Author’s Information

Tetsuo (Waraimeshi) – Profile
Born in 1974 in Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture. Graduated from the Department of Philosophy, School of Humanities at Kwansei Gakuin University. In 2000, he formed the comedy duo "Waraimeshi" with Koji Nishida, and they went on to win the M-1 Grand Prix in 2010.

A self-proclaimed "Buddhism enthusiast," he frequently appears on related TV programs and at events. He possesses a wide range of hobbies and interests, including sports, farming, cooking, copying sutras (Shakyo), pure literature, running a cram school, and watching fireworks displays.

His publications include “Even a Monkey Can Understand: The Heart Sutra Translated by Waraimeshi Tetsuo” and “Buddhist Stories to Make Even Buddha Smile,” among others.