Author Saou Ichikawa imagines a more equitable future

Saou Ichikawa’s debut novel Hunchback took Japan by storm. Long-listed for the International Booker Prize, it won the acclaimed Akutagawa Prize and is considered one of most important works in Japanese literature by some critics. It’s both provocative and a cutting critique of our ableist society, yet remains a stunning portrait of power and sexuality in a disabled body. In honor of Disability Pride Month, we asked Ichikawa a few questions about her inspiration for the novel, her writing process, and her hopes for the future.

For almost 20 years, I pursued a career as an author of light novels. I knocked on a lot of doors, but they remained closed to me and I was never able to get my light novels out into the world. One light novel, which I wholeheartedly believed in, failed to gain recognition. It left me devastated—almost desperate. Eventually, I set my hopes on literary fiction, despite feeling that I wasn't suited to it.

I want readers to feel surprised as the story progresses. Light novels are written to be enjoyed by readers across a broad age range, but with literary fiction, the aim is to do the opposite. As this was my first attempt, it involved some trial and error. I was determined to finish writing it before my vacation from Waseda University was over, so I was feeling a bit of time pressure as I was working on the novel. Thankfully, I completed it in time.

Every reaction has left an impression on me. Many readers were surprised by my novel, which in turn surprised me—I hadn't anticipated such a strong response.

I have been incredibly lucky. I'm grateful to have such talented translators. The attention Japanese authors receive is a testament to the depth and richness of our literary scene. Japan has long been proactive in translating foreign novels into Japanese. It's wonderful to see translation thriving in both directions, fostering an exchange of ideas and allowing us to deepen our understanding of other cultures.

I envision a more equitable society where everyone has the ability to read and write without barriers, and where education and entertainment are accessible to all through human-centred adaptations. I do not believe that a person’s worth should be measured based on their linguistic abilities. Language is simply a tool, one that even AI can wield. Human value transcends language. I hope for a fair society where current meritocratic biases can be dismantled by individuals with disabilities who have been given a stronger voice through improved accessibility.