It was the first work for which Hori received recognition, and is regarded as an early important example of Modernist Japanese literature.
Henri admits that he had once received it as a gift from his mentor, but had to sell it due to his tight financial situation.
Mrs. Saiki sends him money to buy the book back, and during his following visits, Henri and Kinuko begin to develop an affection for each other.
Yet, they are not only unable to communicate their feelings, Henri doesn't even recognise that Kinuko is the reason for his emotional confusion, and seeks distraction in an affair with a revue dancer.
[4] The story also shows the influence of Raymond Radiguet,[1] whom Hori had read and translated in his student years.