John Spurling claims the death of Yukio Mishima by suicide was a carefully planned, theatrical event. He supports this theory by providing glimpses of Mishima’s childhood, & his adult passion for the several “rivers” of his life: writing, theatre, body & action. Mishima was a noted playwright & novelist, starring in many of his own productions. He was also a body-building enthusiast & leader of a private army. The author examines themes of disillusionment & death in Mishima’swritings. (NBB)