Regret and the longing for a second chance are common themes in literature. We yearn to revisit the past, to relive cherished moments and find solace for our souls. But what if there was a way to truly go back in time? Toshikazu Kawaguchi’s debut novel, Before the Coffee Gets Cold, takes us on a remarkable journey through time, but with a unique twist.
The Time Travel Cafe
In this captivating novel, time travel is not facilitated by high-tech machines or flashy devices. Instead, it is confined within the walls of a small cafe. Kawaguchi’s ingenuity lies in the strict rules he imposes upon time travel, making it both fascinating and deeply resonant. The story unfolds in vignettes, each centered around the experiences of the cafe’s staff and regular customers.
A World Within a Cafe
The cafe becomes a sanctuary beyond linear time, where only a select few can venture into the past. However, there are limitations. Time travelers must remain within the cafe, interact only with those who have been there before, and occupy a specific seat. Changes in the past cannot alter the present, and each journey is time-limited. These rules, although known to many, deter most from attempting time travel themselves.
Empathy and Connection
While Kawaguchi’s background as a playwright is evident in the novel’s theatrical setup, his real strength lies in the portrayal of his characters. The depth of their empathy for one another is truly moving. Each story within the book offers a unique perspective, evoking a range of emotions. From the bittersweet tale of a woman who let her boyfriend move to America to the poignant story of a man yearning to give his wife a letter from the past, the narratives resonate with authenticity.
Real Impact, Real Moments
Although the characters cannot change the past, their experiences have a profound impact on the future. As the stories progress, the implications they bring forward become more apparent, infusing the narrative with genuine weight. While the book may lack unexpected twists, the emotional weight behind each moment shines through. If one story doesn’t quite strike a chord, another will surely captivate your heart.
Pushing Boundaries
Yet, don’t be fooled by the book’s conventional nature. In the final story, Kawaguchi defies the rules we have come to understand, deftly guiding a mother into the future to meet her child. It is in these moments that the author’s mastery truly shines. He challenges his own conventions, showcasing his ability to bring nuance to the table. Despite its rough edges, Before the Coffee Gets Cold is undeniably sweet, warm, and moving.
The Marmalade Cafe Experience
As you embark on this enchanting journey through time, imagine yourself nestled in the cozy ambiance of the Marmalade Cafe. Its walls whisper stories of love, loss, and second chances. Just like the characters in the novel, you too can find solace and optimism within its embrace.
Marmalade Cafe invites you to experience the magic firsthand, where the past may be out of reach, but the future is always within your grasp.
FICTION
Before the Coffee Gets Cold
By Toshikazu Kawaguchi
Hanover Square Press
Published on November 17th, 2020