Vanishing World

The Vanishing Words is a relatively short but conceptually dense novel that explores the question: What happens when sex loses its role in society? We follow the protagonist Amane in a future where natural reproduction through intercourse has largely been replaced by artificial insemination. Sex is seen as outdated, almost repulsive—not exactly taboo, but as something archaic that hardly anyone practices or even understands anymore. In this world, relationships are no longer defined by love or desire, but by compatibility. People live together like families—often in friendships that resemble sibling relationships, entirely without sexual attraction. The concept of family has shifted: it’s no longer about biological reproduction, but about shared life management. In fact, sex between a man and a woman within such a “family” is almost considered incestuous, as it harks back to an outdated norm. Amane is different. Although she outwardly conforms to the norms of society, she feels a desire that no longer fits into her world. She isn’t just drawn to fictional characters from books, manga, or anime—many people in this society form emotional bonds with fictional figures, even using images or objects for sexual satisfaction. Fan culture has become reality, a legitimate form of emotional connection. Still, Amane longs for “real” sex—not just as a physical act, but as a form of intimacy and emotional closeness. Together with her partner, she moves to the experimental city of Chiba, where new societal models are being tested. In this place, men can become pregnant and carry children. Yet even here, Amane remains an outsider. Her search for meaning, intimacy, and identity is hard to reconcile with a world that has moved so far away from traditional norms. “Normal is the terrifying thing.” This quote captures the essence of the novel. What we perceive as “normal” is not innate—it’s shaped by culture, by context, and it can change at any time. It raises the question: Who actually decides what our reality should look like? Where sex was once seen as a natural act, it is now obsolete. In this future, humanity has drifted so far from its biological roots that closeness, love, family, and identity have taken on entirely new forms. Conclusion: The Vanishing Words is a provocative, thought-provoking exploration of gender, sexuality, family, and society. A book that challenges norms—and leaves you thinking long after you’ve finished it.

Murata writes in a way that entrances and fascinates you all at once. Her writing style is unique and always top tier. In Vanishing World having sex as a married couple is not the norm, it is actually rather unusual. The very idea of having sex and reproducing "the old way" is so absurd, the main character Amane is appalled when she finds out her parents have birthed her "the old way". Sex when married is considered incest in this novel. Vanishing World is a bizarre critique on our contemporary world and what sexuality means. The novel makes you feel uncomfortable at times and still leaves you thinking about it for hours. Beautifully done and just as much worth a read as Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata.

This story provides an interesting approach on sex and relationships and how the people are expected to leave behind their old world view and the loss and confusion some might feel with the experience. It shows that each new generation has a moment in which they need to accept and adapt or be left behind. As always with this author the story is not what I expected at all (aside from the authors tendency for super long chapters). It is weird and unconventional but that is what makes it so strangely enjoyable to read. *Spoiler ahead* the story´s view on what constitudes as incest is wild and that being said there is a possibility that on one of these occasions it truly was incest... I´ll leave it at that but I really recommend this book. ~ཐིཋྀ

Vanishing World by Sayaka Murata is an unusual and fascinating novel set in a dystopian version of Tokyo, where sexuality has become almost obsolete, children are conceived artificially, and real emotional intimacy is a rarity. The story follows Amane, a girl who falls in love with an anime character and begins to explore her sexuality through this connection. What starts off as naive and innocent gradually becomes a deeper exploration of identity, desire, and the boundaries between reality and fantasy. In this world, relationships are often purely functional, same-sex marriage is prohibited, and family structures are designed for efficient reproduction rather than emotional bonds. One of the most curious elements is “Experiment City” – a place where children are raised collectively, men can become pregnant, and the concept of parenting is completely redefined. It’s a bold and strange vision of the future that raises many questions. Murata’s writing style is simple and emotionally detached, which makes the strange events in the story feel even more surreal. Although the book talks a lot about sex, it’s not erotic – it feels mechanical and clinical, and that contrast is what makes it so compelling. Vanishing World is a truly unique experience. It challenges the reader, offers fresh perspectives, and lingers in your thoughts long after the final page. Conclusion: A strange and original look at a possible future, full of questions about human connection, sexuality, and what it means to build a life.