'Novelist as a Vocation' by Haruki Murakami

In Novelist as a Vocation, Haruki Murakami offers readers a fascinating glimpse into his writing process, providing not just practical advice for aspiring writers but also a philosophical reflection on what it means to create stories.

In many ways, Murakami treats writing as an art form that demands the same level of discipline and dedication as any other artistic endeavour. His words, particularly when he speaks about the subconscious mind and the physical strength needed to delve into it, highlight the deep connection between the physical body, the mind, and the act of creation.

One of the most striking parts of the book is when Murakami says,

“…telling stories, to put it another way, means delving deep down into your subconscious. To descend into the darkest realms of your mind.”

For him, the act of writing is about accessing the hidden parts of the self. It is an act of courage, a descent into the unknown. And, as he points out, there are dangers inherent in this process. He likens the mental challenge of writing to confronting a deep darkness, and this, he says, requires physical strength.

Murakami’s physical fitness routine is an integral part of his writing life. He runs almost every day, believing that a healthy body is crucial to sustaining the mental energy needed to write. He says:

“What’s needed above all, to stand up to that deep darkness and confront daily the various dangers inherent there, is physical strength.”

This perspective offers an insight into the symbiotic relationship between mind and body, especially for writers or creators who may consider their craft purely intellectual. For Murakami, the two are inseparable. Running provides him with the endurance he needs to spend hours at his desk, immersed in the complex and often taxing task of storytelling.

But Murakami’s approach to writing goes beyond physical stamina. He is practical, humble, and deeply disciplined. He writes every day, adhering to a routine that enables him to create work consistently. His success is not something he attributes to raw talent or a stroke of genius but rather to the persistent and steady effort he has put into honing his craft over the years.

This is a refreshing contrast to the common romanticised narrative of the creative genius or the “tortured artist” who waits for inspiration to strike.

Murakami’s perspective is much more grounded: he believes in the power of routine, the necessity of showing up at the desk every day, and the importance of relentless editing.

His long editing process demonstrates his commitment to refining his work, ensuring that each sentence serves its purpose. There is nothing glamorous about this process, and he makes no attempt to dress it up. In fact, his straightforward and unpretentious approach to writing is part of what makes him so attractive to me personally.

Despite being one of the most celebrated novelists of our time, he doesn’t claim to possess a secret talent or insight that others do not have access to. He shows that success in art, much like in any other field, is the result of discipline, patience, hard work and living well. His success, far from being unattainable, feels within reach precisely because of the accessible philosophy he offers. For me, this is what makes Murakami truly inspirational.