Love at Six Thousand Degrees

Love at Six Thousand Degrees by Maki Kashimada, published by Europa Editions on March 7, 2023, is a literary work that explores the complexities of human relationships and psychological depth. In this 128-page novel, an ordinary housewife is compelled to leave her husband and son, driven by haunting visions of a mushroom cloud. Her journey takes her to Nagasaki, where she embarks on an affair with a young man of mixed heritage, intertwining personal and historical narratives.

Readers will find a narrative that delves into themes of family life, gendered identity, and the interplay between private and public selves. Inspired by Marguerite Duras’s screenplay for “Hiroshima, Mon Amour,” this edition showcases Kashimada’s unique literary style and her ability to navigate the emotional landscapes of her characters. The novel presents a thought-provoking examination of trauma and identity within the context of world literature, particularly reflecting on Japan’s historical experiences.