I myself have been on my own and utterly independent since I graduated. I haven't belonged to any company or any system. It isn't easy to live like this in Japan.

Being active every day makes it easier to hear that inner voice.

The grounds of the place were dominated by several large, old willow trees that towered over the surrounding stone wall and swayed soundlessly in the wind like lost souls.

How much do you love me?' Midori asked. 'Enough to melt all the tigers in the world to butter,' I said.

Mere humans who root through their refrigerators at three o'clock in the morning can only produce writing that matches what they do. And that includes me.

"I believe you," she whispers after a moment. "Please find my mind."

My shadow is only half of what it should be." "Everyone has their shortcomings.