CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE (2024-2)
Reading Report
Title of the Story: Drive My Car
Author: Haruki Murakami
Date of Submission: 17 March 2025
1. Summary (150-200 words)
Write a brief summary of the story. Focus on the main plot points, important characters, and the
central conflict. Avoid personal opinions in this section.
“Drive My Car” by Haruki Murakami is a short story that tells the story of Kafuku, a middle-aged actor
who has been left for dead by his wife, Oto. Kafuku knew that his wife was having an affair and had a
lot of unanswered questions until she died. Kafuku lives alone with a big question mark, until he
meets Misaki, a woman hired to be his driver. Slowly he began to open up about his past, especially
his wife's affair. Misaki also tells him about her tragic past, that of her cruel mother and her struggle
against the guilt of not being able to save her. Through their conversations, they help each other to
heal, leading to a quiet understanding and sense of acceptance, although there is no definitive
resolution.
2. Characters
Who are the main characters in the story?
Describe their personality, role, and relationships in the story.
Which character do you find the most interesting? Why?
1) Kafuku: Kafuku is the main character in this story who has a thoughtful, quiet, and
introspective personality. He is a stage actor who struggles with the loss of his wife. He meets
Misaki who is hired to be his driver and helps each other understand their past.
2) Misaki: Misaki has a reclusive and mysterious character. She is Kafuku's driver, taking him to
rehearsals and performances. She became Kafuku's friend who listened to all of Kafuku's
stories.
3) Takatsuki: Takatsuki is a famous young actor who is insecure and impulsive. A young actor
who had an affair with Kafuku's wife. He becomes a symbolic figure for Kafuku's unresolved
emotions.
In my opinion, Misaki is the most interesting. She initially appears as a simple, quiet driver. She acts
as an unexpected guide to Kafuku's self-discovery, showing that healing can come from unexpected
places. Her past trauma mixes with her calm understanding, making her a very interesting character.
3. Themes
What are the main themes or ideas in the story?
How does the story explore themes of loneliness, masculinity, love, or loss?
Drive My Car explores themes of grief, loneliness, masculinity, love and loss. Kafuku struggles with
the death of his wife and his past infidelity, highlighting how unresolved emotions can deepen his
loneliness. Although he appears calm, his grief is pent up. His conversations with Misaki, who also
has a past of her own, show how human connection can alleviate feelings of isolation. This story
shows that healing does not come from forgetting but from understanding and moving forward.
4. Symbolism and Style
Identify any important symbols, metaphors, or imagery used in the story.
How does Murakami's writing style affect the mood or meaning of the story?
In the short story “Drive My Car”, Murakami uses symbols such as cars, which represent physical and
emotional journeys, and driving, which reflects control and submission as Kafuku navigates his grief.
Blind spots symbolize the hidden truths in life, such as his wife's infidelity. Silence plays the role of
unspoken emotions and the quiet bond between Kafuku and Misaki.
Murakami's simple and profound writing style creates a sad atmosphere, with subtle details and
metaphors that portray emotions deeply. The quiet storytelling makes the characters' moments of
closeness and healing feel even more powerful.
5. Personal Response
What is your personal opinion of the story? Did you enjoy it or find it difficult to understand?
Why?
How does the story relate to contemporary life or society?
Drive My Car is a short story that explores grief, loneliness, and human connection in a quiet yet
powerful way. I found this book interesting for its deep themes and subtle storytelling. The way
Murakami expresses emotions through small moments and conversations makes the story
meaningful and touching.
The story relates to contemporary life by highlighting how people often hide their pain and struggle
to express emotions. Drive My Car shows the importance of unexpected connections and healing
through shared experiences. It reminds us that moving forward does not mean forgetting, but
learning to live with the past.
6. Vocabulary Log
List 5-10 new vocabulary words you found in the story. Write down their definitions and create your
own sentences using the words.
1. Timid: Pemalu
2. Cautious: Berhati-hati
3. Tended: Cenderung
4. Scorn: Cemoohan
5. Oblivious: Tidak sadar
6. Gasps: Terengah-engah
7. Slammed: Membanting
8. Brakes: Rem
9. Bristled: Berbulu
10. Chimney: Cerobong Asap
7. Reflection Question
What is one question you would like to discuss about the story in class?
How does Kafuku’s relationship with Misaki help him deal with his grief?
Student Name & Signature: Serli Qairani Putri (2310733041)
