Runaway Horses is the second installment of Yukio Mishima’s The Sea of Fertility tetralogy. This novel shifts to 1930s Japan and follows Isao Iinuma, a fervent nationalist and idealist, as he seeks to restore Japan to its former glory through radical means. Isao’s journey is marked by his unwavering devotion to his cause and the moral dilemmas it presents. Through vivid depictions of loyalty, sacrifice, and the clash of ideologies, Mishima creates a compelling tale of passion and conviction against the backdrop of a rapidly changing nation.

Why Read This Book?

• Explores themes of nationalism, sacrifice, and the conflict between tradition and modernity.
• A gripping narrative of idealism and rebellion set in pre-World War II Japan.
• Intricately tied to the overarching themes of The Sea of Fertility, adding depth to the tetralogy.
• Mishima’s philosophical and poetic style challenges readers to grapple with complex moral questions.
• Appeals to readers interested in historical and political narratives intertwined with personal drama.

About the Author

Yukio Mishima (1925–1970), born Kimitake Hiraoka, was a prolific Japanese author, playwright, and essayist. Widely regarded as one of the most important writers of the 20th century, Mishima’s works often examine themes of beauty, death, tradition, and identity. He was deeply influenced by both Japanese culture and Western literature, combining these elements in his distinctive style. Mishima led a highly disciplined life, embracing bodybuilding, traditional martial arts, and theater, while producing a vast body of work that includes novels, plays, short stories, and essays.
Tragically, Mishima’s life ended in a controversial public act of ritual suicide (seppuku), following his failed attempt to incite a political coup to restore Japan's imperial traditions. His legacy endures through his literature, which continues to captivate and challenge readers worldwide.