Voetballen in 1860

The title hints at unspoken pain and trauma. Did anyone else feel the silence was almost a character itself, influencing their decisions and feelings?

Ōe's work often reflects personal and societal struggles. I wonder what personal or historical influences led to the focus on these heavy topics in this story.

The pacing and perspective shifts felt very deliberate—did they enhance the sense of disconnection or understanding for others reading it?