"Thousand Cranes" is a novel by Japanese author Yasunari Kawabata, published in 1952. The story revolves around the themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. It is set in post-war Japan and explores the emotional connections between its characters through the symbolism of the crane, a bird often associated with peace and longevity in Japanese culture. The narrative follows Kikuji, a young man who grapples with his feelings for two women, Fumiko and Yasuko, both of whom are linked to his deceased father. As Kikuji navigates his relationships, the novel delves into the intricacies of memory and the impact of the past on the present, ultimately reflecting on the nature of desire and regret.