What I Talk About When I Talk About Running

Synopsis

'Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional'

A compelling mediation on the power of running and a fascinating insight into the life of this internationally bestselling writer. A perfect reading companion for runners.

In 1982, having sold his jazz bar to devote himself to writing, Murakami began running to keep fit. A year later, he'd completed a solo course from Athens to Marathon, and now, after dozens of such races, he reflects upon the influence the sport has had on his life and on his writing.

Equal parts travelogue, training log and reminiscence, this revealing memoir covers his four-month preparation for the 2005 New York City Marathon and settings ranging from Tokyo's Jingu Gaien gardens, where he once shared the course with an Olympian, to the Charles River in Boston.

By turns funny and sobering, playful and philosophical, this is a must-read for fans of this masterful yet private writer as well as for the exploding population of athletes who find similar satisfaction in distance running.

*Murakami's new book Novelist as a Vocation is available now*

'There can never have been a book quite like this memoir of running and writing before. In its self-contained way, it's nothing less than an inspiration' Evening Standard

'Hugely enjoyable...You don't have to have run a marathon to be captivated' Sunday Telegraph

'Comical, charming and philosophical...an excellent memoir' GQ

About the Publisher

Vintage

Vintage is a highly respected paperback publisher of contemporary fiction and non-fiction, publishing writers like Philip Roth, Martin Amis and Toni Morrison. There are many Booker and Nobel Prize-winning authors on the Vintage list such as Kingsley Amis, A S Byatt, J M Coetzee, Ismail Kadare, Ian McEwan, Salman Rushdie, Anne Enright, Iris Murdoch, Roddy Doyle and Ben Okri, to name a few.

Summary

Chapter 1: On the Road

* Murakami describes his daily running routine and the transformative effects it has on his life.
* Real Example: "Running taught me the importance of discipline and solitude. It gave me the space to think and to connect with my inner self."

Chapter 2: Training

* Murakami discusses the physical and mental challenges of training for a marathon.
* Real Example: "During my marathon training, I faced setbacks and injuries. But I learned the value of perseverance and the importance of believing in myself."

Chapter 3: Races

* Murakami recounts his experiences running marathons, including the highs and lows of race day.
* Real Example: "The Boston Marathon was an unforgettable experience. I struggled through the heat and hills, but the sense of accomplishment I felt at the finish line was unparalleled."

Chapter 4: Solitude

* Murakami highlights the solitude that comes with running and how it has helped him to understand himself better.
* Real Example: "When I run alone, my mind wanders and I am able to reflect on my life and make sense of my experiences."

Chapter 5: Lasting Effects

* Murakami discusses the lasting effects of running on his life beyond the physical realm.
* Real Example: "Running has not only made me healthier, but it has also given me a sense of purpose and fulfillment."

Chapter 6: On Writing

* Murakami draws parallels between running and writing, explaining how both require discipline, focus, and a willingness to face challenges.
* Real Example: "Writing, like running, is a solitary pursuit that requires patience and perseverance. Both activities have taught me the importance of finding my own rhythm and following my own path."

Chapter 7: Music

* Murakami talks about his love of music and how it inspires his running.
* Real Example: "Listening to music while I run helps me to stay motivated and focused. It's like having a soundtrack to my journey."

Chapter 8: Cats

* Murakami shares anecdotes about his cats and their adventures with him on his runs.
* Real Example: "Running with my cats is a delightful experience. They bring joy and companionship to my solitary pursuit."

Chapter 9: Running in Greece

* Murakami recounts his experience running in Greece and the historical and cultural significance of running in the country.
* Real Example: "Running on the shores of Marathon, where the legendary Battle of Marathon took place, was a surreal and inspiring experience."

Chapter 10: What I Talk About When I Talk About Running

* Murakami reflects on the meaning of running in his life and why he feels compelled to write about it.
* Real Example: "Running is an essential part of who I am. It has shaped my thoughts, feelings, and experiences. By sharing my stories, I hope to inspire others to find the same joy and fulfillment in running that I have."