Meaning: The quote "As I grew up, I was continually to suffer hardships in different realms of life - in my family, in my relationship to Japanese society and in my way of living at large in the latter half of the twentieth century" is a reflection of the personal experiences and struggles of Kenzaburo Oe, a renowned Japanese writer and Nobel laureate in literature. Oe's words encapsulate the challenges and adversities that shaped his identity and influenced his literary works.

Kenzaburo Oe was born in 1935 in a small village on Shikoku, one of Japan's four main islands. His early life was marked by the tumultuous period of World War II and the subsequent American occupation of Japan. Oe's upbringing in the aftermath of the war deeply influenced his perspective on society, politics, and the human condition. His literary works often explore themes of trauma, existentialism, and the struggle for individual and collective identity in a rapidly changing world.

The hardships Oe refers to in the quote can be understood in the context of his family life. Oe's relationship with his disabled son, Hikari, who was born with brain damage, has been a central theme in his writings. The challenges of caring for a disabled child, the emotional turmoil, and the moral dilemmas Oe faced have found poignant expression in his novels and essays. Oe's exploration of the complexities of family dynamics and the profound impact of disability on personal and familial identity has earned him international acclaim for his compassionate and thought-provoking storytelling.

In addition to the familial hardships, Oe's quote also alludes to the difficulties he faced in navigating his relationship with Japanese society. As a writer known for his critical examination of Japanese history, politics, and culture, Oe has often been a controversial figure in his homeland. His outspoken views on issues such as nuclear disarmament, the legacy of World War II, and the role of the United States in Japanese politics have sparked debate and sometimes controversy. Oe's commitment to addressing social and political injustices in his writing reflects his belief in the responsibility of the intellectual to engage with the pressing issues of their time.

Furthermore, Oe's reference to the hardships in his "way of living at large in the latter half of the twentieth century" can be interpreted as a reflection of the broader societal and global changes that unfolded during his lifetime. The latter half of the twentieth century witnessed significant upheavals, including the Cold War, decolonization, the rise of globalization, and technological advancements that transformed the fabric of daily life. Oe's literary works serve as a testament to the ways in which these historical forces intersect with personal experiences, shaping individuals and societies alike.

In conclusion, Kenzaburo Oe's quote encapsulates the multifaceted hardships he encountered in his personal, familial, and societal spheres. His introspective and empathetic exploration of these challenges has resonated with readers worldwide, earning him a place as one of the most influential literary voices of contemporary Japan. Oe's commitment to confronting difficult truths and advocating for social justice through his writing has solidified his legacy as a profound and courageous literary figure.