A River in Darkness: One Man's Escape from North Korea

Masaji Ishikawa’s memoir provides a look from within the pervasive reach and devastating impact of the North Korean totalitarian regime. From a young age, North Koreans are bombarded with images and narratives that exalt its leader’s virtues, with relentless propaganda elevating him to a divine status and portraying him as the ultimate protector and benefactor of the nation. The state extends its control to virtually every aspect of daily life, and even basic hygiene practices are subject to harsh scrutiny. Constant surveillance fosters a chilling environment where the slightest misstep can have devastating consequences. The opening chapters signal the emotional turmoil and hardship awaiting Masaji and his family before repatriation. Ominous language establishes a particular tone, signaling the memoir’s emotional gravity, while the motif of being reborn five times highlights the life experiences that forced Masaji to adapt and reinvent himself while under the regime’s grip. After relocating, Masaji witnesses a culture of corruption and dishonesty flourishing, as citizens attempt to fulfill the state’s impossible demands. Under strain, many adopt a survivalist mentality, looking out for their own interests at the expense of others. Teachers, under pressure to meet unrealistic quotas, resort to bribery and coercion, passing the burden onto students and their parents who, in turn, cheat and steal to avoid punishment.