I'm surprised how much I enjoyed "Convenience Store Woman" by Sayaka Murata. After all, at first sight, the story tells a simple tale. It centers on Keiko Furukura, a woman who finds solace in her long-term job as a convenience store employee. This role provides her with a structured environment and clear procedures, allowing her to 'fit in' with the rest of the world.

It gradually started to dawn upon me that you can read this story as a metaphor for the struggles faced by undiagnosed autistic individuals who are pressured to 'act normal' rather than being accepted for who they are.

The strict rules of the convenience store teach Keiko how to mask and blend in, but her inner thoughts reveal her true perception of the world and the people around her. This duality highlights the challenges of navigating a society that demands conformity.

When Keiko meets Shiraha, a man displaying clear signs of undiagnosed ADHD, whose aversion to rules and structure has marginalized him, they form an unlikely pair. Their relationship raises the question: can they ever truly be themselves instead of conforming to societal norms and expectations?

Murata's story can be interpreted as a sharp commentary on contemporary work culture in Japan and the pressures to conform in a broad sense as well, particularly for women. Recommended!