Edogawa Ranpo: The Human Chair

Book Reviews

Jul 10

Written By Oscar Shinozuka

The Human Chair by Edogawa Ranpo

Genre: Short Story

My Rating: 5 of 5 stars

Overall Review

"The Human Chair" by Edogawa Ranpo is a fascinating and unsettling story that delves into the depths of human psychology and the concept of identity. Published in 1925, it remains one of Ranpo's most renowned and thought-provoking works.

The story revolves around an unnamed narrator who is a talented and eccentric craftsman known for his unique furniture designs. One day, he creates a peculiar chair—a chair so large and comfortable that it allows a person to hide inside it. Intriguingly, the narrator decides to secretly reside within the chair, with the intention of experiencing the intimate encounters and conversations of its occupants.

What makes "The Human Chair" particularly intriguing is the exploration of voyeurism and the blurred boundaries between reality and fiction. The narrator, hidden within the chair, becomes consumed by his voyeuristic tendencies, relishing in the lives of others as he listens to their private conversations and imagines their emotions. He derives a perverse pleasure from his secret existence, blurring the line between observation and intrusion.

Ranpo skillfully examines the psychological aspects of the human condition in this story. The narrator's desire for recognition and the need to be acknowledged drive him to pursue this unusual existence. The story raises questions about the nature of identity and the lengths people go to satisfy their deepest desires.

"The Human Chair" is not merely a tale of voyeurism and obsession. It also serves as a critique of societal norms and the way in which people interact. Through the interactions of the chair's occupants, Ranpo explores themes of loneliness, longing, and the disconnect that often exists between individuals.

Ranpo's writing style is masterful, creating an eerie atmosphere that envelops the reader from the beginning. His descriptions are vivid and haunting, evoking a sense of unease and curiosity. He navigates the boundaries between reality and imagination, leaving the reader questioning the true nature of the narrator's existence.

Overall, "The Human Chair" is a captivating and psychologically rich story that showcases Edogawa Ranpo's mastery of suspense and exploration of human psychology. It delves into the darker corners of the human mind and challenges societal norms, making it a thought-provoking read that lingers in the reader's thoughts long after finishing.

Below is a narrated version in English for those who are interested.

Thanks for reading my review! Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!