The book is divided into 3 parts, and each part depicts a stage of his life. Along the way he matures, changes, and meets people. But the throbbing sense of alienation never leaves him (much like for all of us in real life, I suppose). All in all, No Longer Human is about why staying silent about injustices and wearing a mask for society just doesn't work out. It wears us off to the point we fail to recognize ourselves, and in turn others.

While the entire text is quite depressing and thought-provoking, the acute observations made by the narrator about society, politics, and human nature underline a dark and cynical humour bubbling under the meat of the book.

“I am convinced that human life is filled with many pure, happy, serene examples of insincerity...”

I preferred No Longer Human over The Setting Sun. It evoked so much more dread. I found myself speechless when I related a tad bit too much to the protagonist.

My follow-up reading will definitely include Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei and Junji Ito’s No Longer Human. And, I have been watching Bungo Stray Dogs on and off, too. So it’s been a fairly well-rounded experience for me. It’s amazing to be able to consume an enjoyable character via different forms of media.