Neurodivergence and Trauma in Murakami’s Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki

Abstract

Following exposure to traumatic events, an individual’s brain may undergo structural changes in an effort to adapt. These alterations can be interpreted as manifestations of neurodivergence, which encompasses variations in cognitive processes and behavioral patterns that deviate from societal norms. Conversely, neurodivergent individuals may experience trauma in a neurotypical-oriented society. Recognizing the intersection between neurodivergence and trauma is imperative for accommodating diverse cognitive experiences. This qualitative research employs a psychoanalytic lens and the existentialist philosophy, using Freud’s concepts of the id, ego, and superego, and exploring repression and the unconscious, to analyze the experiences of Tsukuru Tazaki, the titular character in Haruki Murakami’s novel Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki, exploring the intersections of trauma and neurodivergence and their impact on his identity formation and relationships, revealing layers of consciousness, internal conflicts, and existential reflections. The findings suggest that the protagonist’s trauma and neurodivergence significantly contribute to his experiences of alienation and existential crisis. This research underscores the necessity of understanding how neurodivergence and trauma coalesce to influence the psychological and emotional well-being of individuals, aiming to contribute to fostering a richer understanding of the human condition.