A Brief History of Kaiju Literature
The concept of kaiju may begin with myths and legends about dragons, but in the world of literature, one can see Ray Bradbury (Fahrenheit 451, Illustrated Man) as the progenitor of a Godzilla-type monster with his short story the Fog Horn. The titular fog horn of the lighthouse attracts a two-hundred aquatic lizard looking for a mate. As the main characters turn off the fog horn out of fear, the creature destroys the lighthouse in retaliation.
The Fog Horn would inspire the creation of Godzilla combined with a post-nuclear context. The novelization was created in 1954 by the original screenwriter Shigeru Kayama. It was initially serialized in newspapers. The sequel, Godzilla Raids Again, was published in 1955.
More recently, John Scalzi's Kaiju Preservation Society offered escapism during the pandemic of 2022. These creatures are studied by the KPS on a parallel Earth where the atmosphere is warmer allowing for giant lifeforms to exist. The KPS protects the kaiju from human interference.
Now, I myself have added the next evolutionary step in kaiju fiction, where the main characters themselves are the kaiju. The giant monsters in this world are just as intelligent as humans with vast personalities and social lives. Our main character, Seiryu, is a two-hundred foot tall alligator lizard who's trying to find love, work, and friendship in the bustling streets of New York City.
Tall People is available for preorder on KDP and B&N.
Due out February 1, 2025.
#reading #lemon8bookclub #monsterromance #bookreccomendation
Kaiju literature has evolved significantly since its inception, reflecting society's fears and fascinations. Initially inspired by mythological creatures, kaiju gained popularity in post-war Japan with Godzilla, created as a metaphor for nuclear devastation. This narrative continued to resonate, influencing various media including films, comics, and novels. The genre often intersects with themes of environmentalism and the consequences of human actions on nature. Modern authors, such as John Scalzi, have taken kaiju narratives into fresh directions, emphasizing complex emotional lives and social dynamics of these massive beings. Scalzi’s 'Kaiju Preservation Society' presents an alternate Earth where humans work to protect these creatures, offering a blend of escapism and reflection on humanity's relationship with nature. Additionally, contemporary works also explore diverse perspectives and characters within these tales, providing richer narrative textures and deeper engagement. With the release of new titles like 'Tall People,' the genre continues to innovate, focusing on the personal journeys of its kaiju characters. This evolution speaks to the genre's versatility and relevance, continually attracting new readers and inspiring writers to explore what it means to be both a monster and a mirror to human society. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer, the history and future of kaiju literature are sure to captivate and provoke thought.
