Travel conversations spark novel ideas more than studies

Naoki Prize-winning author Shogo Imamura emphasizes that encounters with people, rather than a study, are crucial for generating novel ideas. Imamura, who previously worked as a dance instructor and excavation researcher, highlights his curiosity about people as a driving force behind his writing. He has met diverse individuals, from politicians and entertainers to descendants of noble families. His "Matsuri Journey" across Japan, visiting bookstores and schools, provided numerous encounters with readers of all ages, fueling his creative process and inspiring his work.