Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the literary journey and philosophy of the Japanese author Yoko Tawada, highlighting her unique approach to language and identity in her works, particularly in her latest novel "The Light Bearer" [2][10]. Group 1: Author's Background and Literary Journey - Yoko Tawada was born in Tokyo in 1960 and has lived in Germany for over 40 years, becoming fluent in multiple languages, including Russian [2][3]. - Her experiences as a traveler and language explorer have shaped her literary perspective, allowing her to escape the constraints of her mother tongue [3][4]. - Tawada's first poetry collection innovatively combined Japanese vertical text with German horizontal text, showcasing her belief that language is a living entity rather than a neutral medium [3][4]. Group 2: Themes and Concepts in Tawada's Works - Tawada's works often explore themes of identity, migration, and the impact of globalization, reflecting her experiences as a "language refugee" [3][6]. - In "The Light Bearer," she presents a dystopian future Japan where societal roles are reversed, emphasizing the absurdity of contemporary issues [10]. - The novel critiques Japan's trend towards isolationism, drawing parallels to global phenomena observed post-2011 earthquake and the COVID-19 pandemic [11][12]. Group 3: Language and Translation - Tawada emphasizes the importance of translation in world literature, arguing that translators must possess a deep understanding of both their native and foreign languages [8][17]. - Her works challenge translators due to their complex language games and innovative use of characters, which can lead to varied interpretations across different translations [8][17]. - Tawada believes that the relationship between authors and translators is crucial for bridging cultural gaps and ensuring the continuity of literature across languages [8][17].