Haruki Murakami reflects on his life at thirty-three, a pivotal age often associated with significant turning points in one’s journey. He notes that this age symbolizes a crossroads, marking both the time when Jesus Christ was said to have died and when F. Scott Fitzgerald began to decline. Despite being considered still young, he feels that he is no longer in the prime of youth.

It is during this time that Murakami discovers running, which becomes a transformative experience for him. This newfound passion not only shapes his physical fitness but also serves as a catalyst for his development as a novelist. His journey into running and writing intertwines, marking a crucial moment of growth and realization in his life.