Japanese literature has been shaped by important historical figures. However, their influence can be complicated and challenging.

1. Murasaki Shikibu (around 973 – around 1014)

   • She is the creator of "The Tale of Genji," which is often called the world’s first novel.
   • But, her legacy is affected by the slow development of storytelling and how hard it was for people to access her work.

2. Kurosawa Akira (1910 – 1998)

   • He was a famous filmmaker who turned books into movies, changing how people see Japanese literature around the world.
   • Even though he was successful, the difference between books and movies can lead to misunderstandings of the original stories.

3. Natsume Sōseki (1867 – 1916)

   • His stories show the struggles of modern Japan but also point out how people were becoming disconnected from traditional values.

These writers and filmmakers show us the challenges of sharing and understanding literature.

Solutions:

• Education: We should teach more about connecting literature with other arts to help bridge the gaps.
• Access: We need to encourage translations and adaptations to help more people enjoy these stories while keeping the culture strong.