The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle: Book 3, Chapter 13 Summary & Analysis

Toru takes a break from his time at the well, where he has spent much of his time recently, and returns home to rest. To his surprise, he finds a repulsive man sitting on his sofa. This man, Ushikawa, introduces himself as Kumiko’s private secretary and explains that he used Kumiko's keys to let himself in. Ushikawa tells Toru that he has been attending to Kumiko’s needs since she cannot go outside. He compliments Toru on maintaining a clean household and admits his own incompetence in domestic matters. Ushikawa confesses to mistreating his wife and driving his frightened children away. He admits that his wife left him after he flew into a rage and broke his daughter's arm.

Ushikawa then conveys two messages from Noboru. First, Noboru promises he will not stand in the way if Toru and Kumiko decide to reconcile. Second, Noboru harbors suspicions that Toru is somehow connected to “The Hanging House” and expresses concern that such an association might disgrace the family. If Toru agrees to relinquish the house, Noboru would be willing to arrange a meeting between Toru and Kumiko.

In response, Toru firmly declares he is determined to win Kumiko back on his own and asserts that Noboru has no right to interfere with Toru’s personal affairs. Ushikawa acknowledges Toru’s stance but assures him that this encounter will not be their last. However, he promises to call ahead in the future, so Toru need not be worried that a stranger is lurking in his home.