Swiss Diary, Volume 3

On the summit of Gross Schreckhorn, the Alps stretch out in brilliant sunlight. Hours later, an avalanche sweeps a Japanese climber and his companions down the mountain. Broken limbs, a desperate descent, and an uncertain night in a remote hut transform their expedition.

The final volume of Swiss Diary follows Tsujimura Isuke from the heights to rescue and recovery in Unterseen. Hospital life brings tobacco, poetry, songs, visitors, sharp disputes, and an unexpected interlude of ease, while news of the European war intrudes upon the travelers’ quiet days.

Beside Lake Thun, dawn boat journeys, autumn storms, old acquaintances, and the red glow of snowy mountains restore the diary’s lyrical pace. Yet the mountain that nearly became the narrator’s grave remains on the horizon, and approaching departure deepens his sense of longing.