Summary of the book “If Cats Disappeared From The World” by Genki Kawamura
Introduction:
Genki Kawamura’s moving book “If Cats Were to Disappear from the World” explores themes of regret, love, life, and death. The novel delves into the enormous impact that seemingly everyday things may have on our lives, told through the experience of a young man confronted with his own mortality.
Summary:
Chapter 1: The Diagnosis
After learning with devastating clarity that he has a fatal illness, the protagonist is forced to face his own death and reconsider his course of action.
Chapter 2: The Deal with the Devil
The protagonist is visited by an angel who offers him a deal: he will live one more day for every item taken out of the world. The main character accepts the bargain without thinking through its repercussions.
Chapter 3: The Disappearance of Cats
Cats start to disappear from the earth as part of the agreement. After the protagonist’s cherished pet cat vanishes, he muses over the value of their relationship and the place of cats in his life.
Chapter 4: Memories and Regrets
The main character reflects on the past, going over old recollections of his upbringing, loved ones who have passed away, and relatives. He struggles with regret and yearning for the things that he has lost.
Chapter 5: The Ripple Effect
Cats disappearing from the planet sets off a chain reaction that causes other things to follow suit. The main character observes how these disappearances affect society and muses on how transient existence is.
Chapter 6: Redemption and Acceptance
As his time runs out, the main character tries to make amends with the individuals he has hurt and seeks atonement for his previous transgressions. He learns to realize that death is inevitable and takes comfort in the realization that his existence has a purpose.
Conclusion:
The poignant examination of what it means to live and love in the face of mortality found in “If Cats Were to Disappear from the World” is its conclusion. Genki Kawamura urges us to treasure the people and things in our lives that make us happy and to find value in every moment, no matter how short, through the protagonist’s journey.
