Seiichi Ijuin, the acclaimed author recognized as one of Japan's last 'buraipaha' litterateurs, passed away on November 24, 2023, at the age of 73 after battling intrahepatic bile duct cancer. With Ijuin's death marking the end of not only his life but also the era he represented, many are revisiting the rich narrative of his life and the impactful stories he left behind. Among those reflecting on Ijuin’s legacy is his wife, Hiroko Shino, who stood by him during both his triumphs and struggles.
Hiroko Shino, who married Ijuin when she was 44, stepped back from her flourishing acting career to focus on their life together. Their partnership sparked discussions about love, sacrifice, and the challenges they faced, particularly during Ijuin's final days. Shortly before his death, Ijuin's health took a significant downturn, prompting concern and emotional turmoil within their household.
Shino describes how their life changed dramatically over the last few months of Ijuin’s life. She recalls the moment they realized something was terribly wrong; it was just weeks before he passed away when he spent four consecutive days without leaving his hotel room. This incident prompted Shino's concern and drove her to contact him. “I was worried, so I came to Tokyo and knocked on his door. When I said, ‘It's Hiroko,’ he responded, ‘Which Hiroko?’” she recounted, echoing the strain and confusion of those distressing times.
By late summer 2023, Ijuin had moved primarily to Sendai, where he began losing weight and struggled with appetite. The vibrant man known for his convivial spirit, who once relished alcohol, was unable to enjoy his favorite drinks as his health deteriorated. Numerous visits to doctors and specialists marked their lives, as they sought clarity on his nagging health issues. “By September, he was livid due to my 'running away,' which now, reflecting on it, seems to stem from my own anxieties relating to his health,” Shino explained.
Shino’s insights come as part of her first major media appearance in 24 years, sparked by the publication of Ijuin's memoir, which includes reflections from both during and just prior to his illness. The memoir and Shino’s recounting of their memories create vivid portraits of both the often-turbulent times and the tranquility they found together when possible. Ijuin was often labeled as the last of the so-called 'buraipaha' authors—individuals celebrated for their rebellious lifestyle and novelistic style.
Their story extends beyond hardships; Shino and Ijuin’s love indicated emotional grounding amid chaotic personal histories. They remained remarkably close even if they didn’t always openly share their feelings. “He was just one of those people you’d miss if you didn’t see them for some time,” Shino noted, highlighting the deep yet sometimes unspoken bond they shared.
Initially, Shino had aspirations for marriage driven by love, which faced hurdles throughout her life. “I was hoping deeply to get married, but somehow the right opportunity never presented itself until I met him. I was already 44,” she reflected. Ijuin on the other hand had been through significant loss, including the passing of his first wife, actress Masako Natsume. Their relationship formed during the aftermath of these intense emotional trials.
The publication of Ijuin's memoir serves not only as tribute to his literary voice but also as acknowledgment of the deeply intertwined lives he shared with those closest to him. It unearths the struggles of maintaining personal connection amid the backdrop of existential dangers posed by illness.
To many fans and readers, Ijuin's work is synonymous with creativity fueled by heart and life experience. His portrayal of characters often mirrored his personal life's hurdles, capturing authenticity and emotional truth. The upcoming issue of Weekly Bunshun Woman, marking the sixth anniversary of the magazine, aims to spotlight Shino's poignant memories of her late husband, interspersed with insights from Ijuin's rich literary legacy.
“For me, our greatest gift was finding solace and companionship within our shared ups and downs. Ijuin was more than just my husband; he embodied warmth, complexity, and depth,” Shino emphasized as she unveiled their shared memories. This heartfelt acknowledgment, paired with their unique bond is woven delicately throughout his memoir as the true essence of Seiichi Ijuin emerges.
