IKIGAI TOKOH SENTARO DALAM NOVEL AN KARYA DORIAN SUKEGAWA (PENDEKATAN SOSIAL BUDAYA)

Abstract

This study aims to identify the pillars of ikigai reflected in the character of Sentaro in the novel An by Durian Sukegawa according to Ken Mogi's (2022) theory and to describe Sentaro's process of finding ikigai supported by the basic elements of ikigai from Mitsuhashi Yukari (2018). The research employed a descriptive qualitative method with a socio-cultural approach. The data collection technique utilized was the listening and note-taking method, while the data analysis technique applied was content analysis by analyzing the narrative texts and dialogues in the novel. The results reveal that all five pillars of Ken Mogi's ikigai are reflected in the character Sentaro, with a total of 21 data points found. The breakdown includes: "start small" (5 data), "release yourself" (3 data), "harmony and sustainability" (5 data), "joy from little things" (6 data), and "being in the here and now" (2 data). Sentaro's transformation, which begins with 'Start Small' and a shift from a passive to an active state (Mitsuhashi), proves that ikigai can be found through a gradual self-healing process, making life feel meaningful despite social shame or rigid life formalities