KAPPA

Book excerpt: "Kappa" by Ryunosuke Akutagawa (1927) is a satirical novella that explores existential themes through the eyes of a mental patient. He recounts his surreal journey to the land of the Kappa, mythical creatures from Japanese folklore. In the Kappa world, social norms are inverted: fetuses decide whether to be born, theft is acceptable, and art exists without regard for public understanding. As the protagonist observes these strange customs, he becomes increasingly disillusioned with human society, drawing parallels between the absurdities of both worlds. The story reflects Akutagawa's struggles with depression and alienation shortly before his suicide, offering a dark critique of societal values and human existence.