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Osamu Dazai, born Tsushima Shūji on June 19, 1909, in Kanagi, Aomori Prefecture, Japan, was a prominent Japanese author known for his deeply introspective and often autobiographical literary works. He was born into a wealthy landowning family as the tenth of eleven children. Dazai’s upbringing in an affluent household provided him with privileges but also contributed to feelings of alienation and despair that permeated his writing.

Dazai began his literary career while studying French literature at Tokyo University. His early life was marked by personal struggles, including multiple suicide attempts and battles with alcoholism. His first published story, “Ressha” (“Train”), appeared in 1933 under his pen name, marking the beginning of his exploration of the “I-novel” style, which focuses on personal experiences and confessional narratives.

His most notable works include The Setting Sun (1947) and No Longer Human (1948), both of which capture the disillusionment and cultural upheaval of post-war Japan. The Setting Sun reflects the decline of the aristocratic class, while No Longer Human presents a harrowing portrayal of a man who feels disconnected from society, widely regarded as a semi-autobiographical account of Dazai’s own struggles.

Despite achieving significant literary success after World War II, Dazai’s personal life remained tumultuous. He married Ishihara Michiko but later became involved with Tomie Yamazaki, a relationship that contributed to his downward spiral. On June 13, 1948, Dazai and Yamazaki drowned themselves in the Tamagawa Canal; their bodies were discovered shortly after, coincidentally on what would have been Dazai’s 39th birthday.

Dazai’s legacy endures as one of Japan’s most influential authors, with his works continuing to resonate with readers and scholars alike. His exploration of themes such as alienation, despair, and the human condition has solidified his place in modern Japanese literature.