Yukio Mishima stands out as one of the most celebrated postwar writers, yet his writing style diverges significantly from the literary allusions prevalent in the works of contemporaries like Jun’ichiro Tanizaki and Yasunari Kawabata. Although deeply immersed in classical Japanese literature, Mishima adopted a unique approach that eschews the replication of everyday dialogue. Instead, he embraced a deliberately artificial style, characterized by ornate expressions, a frequent use of metaphor, and a rich vocabulary. This stylistic choice allows his characters to transcend mundane concerns, imparting a sense of universality and depth.

In his short story “Patriotism,” Mishima meticulously details every act of preparation and the stages of suicide to infuse each gesture with profound meaning. Through this detailed narrative, he offers readers an intimate understanding of the worldview shared by the young officer and his wife. Drawing inspiration from real events, like the suicide of Takeyama, Mishima enriches his stories with convincing detail, ensuring each action is thoughtfully elaborated to highlight its significance. The silent understanding between Takeyama and his wife is rendered with such clarity that readers are left with no doubt about their dedication and mutual appreciation.

Mishima’s acclaimed novel, Kinkakuji (1956; The Temple of the Golden Pavilion, 1959), shares thematic similarities with “Patriotism,” as it also seeks to unravel the motivations behind the actions of a real individual. While many authors draw inspiration from real life to shape their characters, Mishima goes a step further by intricately crafting the emotions and motivations of these individuals, creating a compelling and vivid persona. His ability to blend reality with fictional narrative showcases his mastery in portraying authentic human experiences through a distinctive and thought-provoking style.