A simple poem written for a newborn grandchild can inspire a lifetime of literary pursuit, it’s clear that the power of words transcends generations. Kazuyoshi Nakata, an emerging voice in Japanese literature, has made it his mission to bridge the past and future with his work, “Midori no Kaze” (Green Wind), a book that carries over 30 years of family history and cultural heritage into the modern world.

The Roots of a Legacy: A Grandfather’s Influence

Born in Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture, the Little Kyoto of Iyo, Kazuyoshi Nakata’s journey as a writer is deeply intertwined with his late grandfather, Takeo Nakata, a man who wore many hats—Japanese language teacher, farmer, local welfare worker, and poet. It was through his grandfather’s multifaceted life that Kazuyoshi learned the value of diverse work styles long before the concept gained mainstream attention. Takeo’s life was a testament to the ability to nurture multiple passions and contribute to society in varied ways.

In 1976, the year Kazuyoshi was born, his grandfather penned a poem titled “First Grandchild,” which was published in a local newspaper in Ehime Prefecture. This simple yet profound piece of writing left an indelible mark on Kazuyoshi. Upon reading it, he was filled with a sense of belonging and gratitude, leading him to think, “I’m glad I was born.” This moment sparked a lifelong dream in him—to take over his grandfather’s poetic legacy and share it with future generations.

(Image of Ozu-Castle, Ehime Prefecture)

As a high school student, when Kazuyoshi’s grandfather passed away, the dream solidified into a mission. He envisioned himself as a writer, determined to keep his grandfather’s spirit alive through his own work. The internet was not yet prevalent, so Kazuyoshi followed in his grandfather’s footsteps by sharing his writings through newspapers and, eventually, on social media. This blend of traditional and modern methods allowed him to stay true to his grandfather’s legacy while embracing the tools of the future.

The Birth of “Midori no Kaze”

The culmination of Kazuyoshi’s efforts is “Midori no Kaze,” a work that began as an e-book in May 2020 and is set to be released as a paperback in April 2024. The book serves as a bridge between the past and the future, much like the Japanese proverb “Onkochishin,” which means “learning from the past to gain new insights.” Through “Midori no Kaze,” Kazuyoshi hopes to impart the joy and hope of living to the next generation, just as his grandfather did for him.

“Midori no Kaze” is not merely a collection of poems or stories; it is a vessel carrying the essence of Japanese culture—harmony, nostalgia, and the warmth of human connection. Every sentence is crafted with care and heartfelt intention, aiming to resonate with readers not only in Japan but also around the world.

Overcoming Challenges: The Road to Publication

Kazuyoshi’s path to realizing his dream was not without obstacles. Initially, he approached several major publishing companies in Japan with his manuscript, only to discover that the cost of self-publishing would run into several million yen—an amount far beyond his means at the time. The financial burden was daunting, and for a moment, it seemed that Kazuyoshi would have to abandon his dream.

Then, in 2019, the world was struck by the COVID-19 pandemic, a crisis that brought challenges but also unexpected opportunities. It was during this tumultuous time that Kazuyoshi connected with a publishing producer where he learned the concept of Amazon Kindle e-publishing, a more accessible and cost-effective route to bring his book to the public.

With renewed motivation and support, Kazuyoshi launched “Midori no Kaze” as an e-book, just as the world was grappling with the uncertainty and despair brought on by the pandemic. The book, embodying hope and resilience, struck a chord with readers, reaching #1 in five categories on Kindle at the time of its release.

(image taken from inside Ozu-Castle , Ehime Prefecture)

The Message of “Midori no Kaze”

At its core, “Midori no Kaze” is a reflection of the Japanese spirit—an exploration of harmony, nostalgia, and the beauty of life. Kazuyoshi carefully crafted each sentence to convey these themes, hoping to evoke in readers the same sense of connection and warmth that he experienced through his grandfather’s writings.

In a world where the birthrate is declining and the nuclear family structure is becoming more common, particularly in Japan, Kazuyoshi sees “Midori no Kaze” as a reminder of the importance of intergenerational bonds. He believes that the lessons of the past, encapsulated in works like his grandfather’s poetry, can offer valuable insights and guidance in navigating the complexities of modern life.

Kazuyoshi also draws on the wisdom of ancient teachings, such as those found in the Analects of Confucius, to emphasize the importance of kindness and human warmth. He believes that by fostering these values in small, localized communities, we can gradually create a brighter, more harmonious world.

Looking to the Future: Expanding Horizons

Kazuyoshi’s journey as a writer is far from over. In addition to “Midori no Kaze,” he has already published business books and novels in both Japanese and English. His future plans include releasing inclusive picture books, self-development guides, crisis-themed fiction, and SNS strategy books. As a social issues consultant with expertise in ICT, Kazuyoshi is particularly attuned to the challenges of the digital age.

One of his primary concerns is the digital divide, especially among seniors who are often left behind in the rapidly advancing digital society. Kazuyoshi sees this as a critical issue in Japan, and he is committed to addressing it by harmonizing the benefits of both digital and analog mediums. In line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly the goal of promoting a fair, peaceful, and inclusive society, Kazuyoshi aims to find solutions that bring together the best of both worlds.

A Writer with a Purpose

Kazuyoshi Nakata’s ultimate goal as a writer is not fame or fortune but the simple act of writing itself. He finds fulfillment in the idea that his work, no matter how small, can bring a sense of happiness or humor to his readers. For Kazuyoshi, success is measured in the connections he builds through his writing and the legacy he leaves for future generations.

As he continues to explore new genres and reach out to a global audience, Kazuyoshi remains grounded in the values and lessons passed down from his grandfather. “Midori no Kaze” is more than a book; it is a testament to the enduring power of words and the impact they can have on individuals and communities alike.

Connecting with Kazuyoshi Nakata

For those interested in following Kazuyoshi’s journey, he is active on several platforms. His LinkedIn profile boasts over 1,200 followers, and he is currently attending an English conversation school to enhance his interactions with an international audience. Kazuyoshi also has an Amazon Author Site where readers can explore his various works, including the recently released short novel “From a Place Where You Can See the Sea,” which has garnered accolades in both Japanese and English versions.

Through his writing, Kazuyoshi Nakata continues to build bridges—between generations, cultures, and even between the past and future. With “Midori no Kaze,” he invites readers to join him on a journey of reflection, learning, and, most importantly, hope.