Haruki Murakami embodies the archetype of the reclusive writer like few others. The Japanese bestselling author is known to be quite shy. However, Murakami now breaks his silence and shares his rich experience as a writer with us. Reflecting on literature and its significance to him, he draws on Kafka, Raymond Chandler, Dostoevsky, Hemingway, and other representatives of world literature. For the first time, readers encounter the person behind Murakami. Who knows of his extensive knowledge of classical music and his passion for jazz? This is a unique glimpse into the workshop and heart of one of the greatest and most successful writers of our time. Essentially, it is what Murakami would never write in his reticence: an autobiography.