Osamu Dazai

Japanese · 1909–1948

Osamu Dazai was one of the most popular and controversial Japanese authors of the twentieth century, known for his confessional, darkly humorous fiction. His major works include No Longer Human, The Setting Sun, and Run, Melos! He struggled with depression, addiction, and multiple suicide attempts throughout his life, drowning himself in 1948.

Books by Osamu Dazai