Enchi, Fumiko (1905–1986)

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Enchi, Fumiko (1905–1986)

Japanese novelist. Born Oct 2, 1905, in Tokyo, Japan; died of heart failure, Nov 14, 1986; dau. of Ueda Kazutoshi (1867–1937, distinguished Japanese linguist); attended girls's middle school of Japan Women's University, 1918–22; m. Enchi Yoshimatsu (journalist); children: daughter.

Left school after illness and was home-schooled in English, French, and Chinese literature; contributed to Art for Woman (1930); writings include Starved Years, The Waiting Years, Robber of My Brightness, Wounded Wings, A Rainbow and Hell, A Vengeful Spirit, Home Without a Table (1978), Like a Loving Child of Chrysanthemums, and A Wandering Spirit. Won Noma Prize for Literature (1958) for The Waiting Years and Tanazaki Junichiro Prize.