A Forest of Wool and Steel

A Forest of Wool and Steel (Hitsuji to Hagane no Mori) is a Japanese novel written by Natsu Miyashita. First published in 2015, the novel quickly gained popularity in Japan, winning the Japan Booksellers' Award in 2016. It tells the story of Tomura, a high school student who becomes enchanted by the sound of a piano being tuned and decides to become a piano tuner himself. The novel explores themes of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of perfection in the art of piano tuning, set against the backdrop of the beautiful forests of Hokkaido, Japan.

Plot Summary

The story follows Tomura, who, after hearing a piano being tuned in his school auditorium, becomes deeply moved by the sound. This experience leads him to pursue a career as a piano tuner, an occupation he had never considered before. Tomura enrolls in a vocational school in Tokyo to learn the craft and faces various challenges as he strives to understand the complex nature of pianos and the subtleties of tuning them. Throughout his journey, Tomura meets several mentors and peers who guide and challenge him, including a gifted but eccentric piano tuner who becomes his mentor. The novel delves into the technical aspects of piano tuning, the relationship between tuner, instrument, and musician, and the profound impact of music on both the player and the listener.

Themes

A Forest of Wool and Steel explores several key themes, including the pursuit of excellence, the beauty of music, and the connection between people and their passions. The novel emphasizes the importance of dedication, hard work, and the relentless pursuit of one's dreams. It also highlights the spiritual and emotional connections that individuals can have with art and nature.

Reception

The novel received critical acclaim in Japan for its lyrical prose, detailed exploration of piano tuning, and the depth of its characters. It won the Japan Booksellers' Award, which is voted on by bookstore employees across Japan, indicating its popularity among a wide range of readers. The book has been praised for its ability to weave technical details about piano tuning with a compelling narrative and rich emotional landscapes.

Adaptations

In 2018, A Forest of Wool and Steel was adapted into a live-action film directed by Kojiro Hashimoto. The film sought to capture the essence of the novel, focusing on the beauty of sound and the lush landscapes of Hokkaido that are central to the story. It featured performances by notable Japanese actors, bringing the characters and their emotional journeys to life on the big screen.

Legacy

A Forest of Wool and Steel has left a significant mark on Japanese literature, particularly in its portrayal of music and craftsmanship. The novel has inspired readers to appreciate the art of piano tuning and the dedication required to excel in any craft. It continues to be celebrated for its poetic narrative, emotional depth, and the inspiring message that passion and perseverance can lead to mastery and fulfillment.