Naoya Shiga, the "God of Novels," towers over the history of modern Japanese literature. This work delves into the core of his works by tracing back through the past of his friends, parents, grandfather, and other members of his family, unraveling each layer of his relationships with Shiga. It explores the author's unique methodological awareness that led to the later publication of his masterpiece, "Ryuritan," which deals with his own family. This is a brilliant piece of literary criticism and author analysis, a novelistic essay that captures the charm of a writer examining a writer with sharp sensitivity. (Kinokuniya Bookstore) This is a copy of Shotaro Yasuoka's "Naoya Shiga: A Personal Essay," published by Kodansha in February 1972 (first edition) with the obi (paper band). The cover design is by book designer Kumiko Tochio. There is little yellowing due to age, and no stains, writing, or library stamps. Please consider purchasing, understanding that this is an old book from 53 years ago.