IntroductionThe works of Asian authors have strongly influenced the world of literature. Their writing styles vary from postmodernist works to Western-influenced modernist literature. Authors from this region cover a variety of topics that include discussing the role of women, Asian history, and detective fiction. Two Asian writers who showcase these topics are authors Sei Shonagon and Haruki Murakami. Haruki Murakami is known for his most popular story “The Year of Spaghetti”. Sei Shonagon received literary recognition for one of his most famous pieces “The Pillow Book”. The purpose of this article is to better understand the authors Haruki Murakami and Sei Shonagon and their writings by examining the history of the author's region, cultural influences, background information, and literary influences. History of the region where the author lives/works. You are Shonagon who grew up in Japan. He lived during the Heian period, serving as the court of Empress Consort Teishi. During this period Japan flourished as a whole. Free from the constraints of war, Japan had the ability to regroup. The Heian government worked quickly to build and strengthen Japanese culture. The Heian government developed an independent writing system, breaking away from the Chinese alphabet. Sei Shonagon wrote personal thoughts in poetic forums, which were influenced by the Heian writing system. The freedom during this period helped influence his artistic and expressive writing style. Author Haruki Murakami was also born in Japan. However, Murakami was born four years after the end of World War II. This was his time to rebuild after the United States dropped two nuclear warheads on his home country. Originally, Murakami was from Kyoto, the ancie...... middle of paper ......on is the most critical element of his acclaimed pieces. Conclusion Literature allows the ability to escape or analyze reality. Sei Shonagon describes what life was truly like in the pre-modern era, giving the reader an accurate insight. Haruki Murakami escapes reality in his work because his literature is mainly composed of fantasy. Both authors are well known globally, allowing them to stand out from their literary peers. Although the two authors were born nearly a thousand years apart, they are linked by their Japanese heritage, which is exemplified in their writings. Their experiences have allowed them to connect with the hearts of millions of readers around the world, allowing their literature to stand the test of time. Shedding light on different aspects of Japanese life, these authors will forever remain in history through their literature.