Norwegian Wood is a novel by Haruki Murakami, first published in 1987. It tells the story of Toru Watanabe, a young man reflecting on his college days in Tokyo during the 1960s. The title comes from The Beatles’ song “Norwegian Wood,” which acts as a symbol of nostalgia and loss throughout the story.The novel explores themes of love, memory, and grief. Toru is caught between two women: Naoko, a fragile and emotionally troubled woman linked to his past, and Midori, a lively, free-spirited girl who represents the present. Naoko struggles with the loss of her boyfriend (Toru’s best friend) and her own mental health, leading to a deep yet complicated relationship with Toru. On the other hand, Midori introduces Toru to new experiences, challenging him to open up to life again.The novel doesn’t shy away from portraying the complex emotions and struggles of the characters. Themes of mental illness, isolation, and the search for meaning in life are woven into the narrative. It’s a deeply introspective book, often melancholic, yet full of tender moments.Murakami’s writing style in Norwegian Wood is more grounded and realistic than some of his more surreal works. It captures the mood of the 1960s in Japan and the turbulence of youth. The novel’s atmosphere is rich with vivid descriptions of nature, music, and emotions, making it a haunting and poetic exploration of young love and loss.Norwegian Wood became one of Murakami's most popular works, resonating with readers for its raw portrayal of the inner struggles people face, especially during transitions in life.