Plot summary, “The Divine Wind” by Garry Disher in 5 Minutes - Book Review
0"The Divine Wind" is a novel written by Australian author Garry Disher. It was first published in 1998 and is a work of historical fiction set during World War II.
"The Divine Wind" tells the story of Hartley Penrose, a young Australian boy, and his friendship with Mitsy Sennosuke, a Japanese girl, against the backdrop of the war and its impact on their lives. The novel explores themes of racism, love, loyalty, and the destructive power of prejudice.
Set in the town of Broome in Western Australia, the story unfolds through the eyes of Hartley, who narrates the events. The narrative reflects the tensions and conflicts between different cultural groups in Australia at the time, particularly towards those of Japanese descent.
Hartley and Mitsy's friendship is tested by the prevailing attitudes of the era, as well as the war itself. The title of the novel, "The Divine Wind," refers to a Japanese term, kamikaze, which means "divine wind." This term is associated with the Japanese suicide pilots who carried out attacks during World War II. The title symbolizes the destructive forces that threaten to tear apart the lives of the characters and the turbulent nature of their relationships.
The novel delves into the complexities of love and loyalty, as Hartley finds himself torn between his affection for Mitsy and the societal pressure to conform to prevailing attitudes. The story also explores the sacrifices made by individuals during wartime and the lasting impact of those sacrifices on their lives.
Through its characters and their experiences, "The Divine Wind" offers a nuanced exploration of racism and prejudice, challenging the reader to examine their own beliefs and assumptions. The novel portrays the destructive consequences of discrimination and the power of human connection to transcend cultural and racial boundaries.
Overall, "The Divine Wind" by Garry Disher is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of love, loyalty, and the impact of prejudice during World War II.