Overdue – Episode 685: Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
Hosts: Andrew and Craig
Publisher: Headgum
Release Date: January 13, 2025
Introduction
In Episode 685 of "Overdue," hosts Andrew and Craig delve into the enchanting world of Toshikazu Kawaguchi's Before the Coffee Gets Cold. This episode explores the novel's unique blend of magical realism and emotional depth, positioning it within the burgeoning genre of "healing fiction" that has gained global traction amidst turbulent times.
Book Overview
Andrew introduces the episode by announcing his selection: Before the Coffee Gets Cold, part of a series by Kawaguchi that has captivated readers with its heartwarming tales. The book centers around a magical cafe, Cafe Funicula Funicula, where patrons can time travel—but with strict rules that ensure the past remains unaltered.
Craig humorously relates their own ritual of savoring a late-night cup of coffee from their favorite diner, drawing a parallel to the book's central motif of savoring moments before the coffee cools.
Exploring "Healing Fiction" [03:08]
Andrew references a New York Times article titled "In Tumultuous Times, Readers Turn to 'Healing Fiction'," highlighting how cozy and whimsical novels from Japan and Korea are offering solace globally. He draws a comparison to the popular TV show Ted Lasso, emphasizing how both provide warmth and kindness in a seemingly cold world:
Andrew [03:41]: "This show, one man made cookies like that much came out and was very warm and fuzzy... everybody's reaction was like, wow, I really needed to see these people be this nice to each other."
Author Background and Cultural References [07:10 – 15:17]
The conversation shifts to Kawaguchi's background. Born in Osaka in 1971, Kawaguchi initially pursued a career in manga before transitioning to playwriting. His play, which later became the novel Before the Coffee Gets Cold, won the 10th Suganami Drama Festival grand prize, marking his success as a playwright.
A fascinating cultural touchpoint is the book's title, referencing the Neapolitan song "Funiculi Funicula". Craig shares an amusing anecdote about multiple composers adopting the tune, inadvertently causing confusion about its origins. They also discuss its appearance in popular media, such as the Thomas and Friends series:
Craig [11:23]: "It's a funicular, Andrew. Going up Mount Vesuvius... made me really mad that Grape Escape isn't on the Wikipedia entry for Funiculi Funicula."
Time Travel Mechanics and Rules [17:51 – 30:48]
A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the intricate rules governing time travel in the cafe:
- Only Patrons: "The only people one may meet while back in the past are those who have visited the cafe." ([23:30] Andrew)
- Immutable Present: "No matter how hard one tries while back in the past, one cannot change the present." ([23:45] Andrew)
- Solo Time Travel: "In order to return to the present, you have to sit in that seat alone." ([29:34] Andrew)
- Time Limit: "There is a time limit. Before the coffee gets cold, you must finish your business and drink the whole thing." ([30:05] Andrew)
Andrew uses a detailed example involving a time-traveling gunman to illustrate how the rules maintain the integrity of the present:
Andrew [25:24]: "If, say, a murderer traveled back in time, she would have a good reason to leave it alone... the present doesn’t change."
Craig nods in appreciation of the whimsical yet firm approach:
Craig [30:04]: "Okay. The third rule... you have to sit in that seat alone."
Character and Story Analysis [30:48 – 43:06]
The hosts delve into the four interconnected stories presented in the novel, each highlighting different aspects of human emotion and connection:
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Fumiko and Goro: Fumiko revisits the past to reconnect with her boyfriend Goro, who is moving to America. Despite her efforts, the present remains unchanged, emphasizing themes of acceptance and emotional closure.
Andrew [25:06]: "No matter how hard one tries... you cannot change the present."
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Kotake and Her Husband: Kotake uses time travel to gain deeper insights into her husband’s struggle with Alzheimer’s. This journey fosters a stronger bond and understanding, illustrating the power of empathy and support.
Andrew [35:41]: "Her getting this letter doesn't change anything about the present... but knowing a little bit more about his inner life changes how you interact going forward."
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Hirai and Her Sister: Hirai attempts to reconcile with her sister, who tragically died in a car accident. Through time travel, she uncovers her sister’s true intentions, leading to personal growth and familial harmony.
Andrew [39:56]: "This is about changing the future more than it is about changing the past."
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Kei’s Future Journey: Kei, a cafe staff member, travels to the future to meet her child, grappling with her own health challenges. This story explores themes of hope, legacy, and the enduring impact of our choices.
Andrew [50:21]: "It's strongly implied that she's not around by the time her daughter is 15... but it’s left ambiguous whether the future can change because of stuff that you went forward."
Critique and Reception [55:13 – 60:18]
Andrew and Craig discuss the book’s reception, noting its status as a bestseller in some independent bookstores. However, they also address critiques regarding the repetitive nature of the time travel rules, which some readers found monotonous:
Craig [56:52]: "A lot of them were like, I really kind of liked how this book made me feel, but I didn't need to hear about the rules 10 times across four stories."
Despite these criticisms, the hosts express their overall appreciation for the book's emotional resonance and thoughtful exploration of human connections.
Personal Reflections and Conclusion [60:18 – End]
In concluding the episode, Andrew and Craig reflect on the book's unique approach to time travel—not as a means to alter events, but as a tool for personal introspection and emotional healing. They commend Kawaguchi for crafting stories that, while adhering to strict temporal rules, offer profound insights into love, loss, and the human spirit.
Andrew [60:21]: "It would be a novel about learning more about yourself, and it just so happens to be at a magical cafe that allows you to travel through time."
They wrap up by sharing their excitement for future readings and ongoing developments in their podcast, inviting listeners to engage with the community and stay tuned for more literary explorations.
Notable Quotes
- Andrew [03:08]: "In tumultuous times, readers turn to 'healing fiction'. Cozy, whimsical novels, often featuring magical cats that have long been popular in Japan and Korea are taking off globally."
- Craig [11:23]: "It's a funicular, Andrew. Going up Mount Vesuvius... made me really mad that Grape Escape isn't on the Wikipedia entry for Funiculi Funicula."
- Andrew [25:24]: "If, say, a murderer traveled back in time, she would have a good reason to leave it alone... the present doesn’t change."
- Andrew [30:05]: "There is a time limit. Before the coffee gets cold, you must finish your business and drink the whole thing."
- Andrew [35:41]: "Her getting this letter doesn't change anything about the present... but knowing a little bit more about his inner life changes how you interact going forward."
- Andrew [39:56]: "This is about changing the future more than it is about changing the past."
- Andrew [60:21]: "It would be a novel about learning more about yourself, and it just so happens to be at a magical cafe that allows you to travel through time."
Final Thoughts
Before the Coffee Gets Cold stands out in the realm of contemporary Japanese literature for its delicate balance between magical elements and deep emotional storytelling. Kawaguchi's novel offers readers a contemplative journey into the complexities of human relationships, regret, and the enduring quest for closure—all within the comforting confines of a quaint, timeless cafe.
For those seeking a heartfelt narrative that intertwines whimsical time travel with profound personal growth, this book is a delightful and moving choice.