Photo/Illutration Hayao Kawai in 2005 (Asahi Shimbun file photo)

There is apparently an organization called “Nihon Usotsuki Kurabu” (Japan Liars’ Club)—oh wait, I should perhaps change the verb to the past tense?

In the 1990s, it was said, the club was chaired by psychologist Hayao Kawai (1928-2007), who made great fanfare of calling an annual assembly every year on April 1.

During the assembly, everyone was to participate in a “fibbing competition,” with prize money given to the person who was judged the best liar.

However, anyone dense enough to accept an invitation to such a gathering seriously would be deemed “unqualified to be a club member,” and would be simply expelled.

“Therefore, I myself have never attended this big event, not even once,” Kawai wrote in his book titled “Anata ga Kodomo datta koro” (When you were a child).

I apologize if I’ve made you wonder how much of what I’ve written above is true.

If you think it’s all a load of bull, it might be a good idea to make a phone call to confirm: Just dial 800 from anywhere in the world, and you should be connected to the club.

*Translator’s note: The Japanese idiom “uso 800,” which translates literally as “lies 800,” means “a pack of BS.”

I fondly recall Kawai’s famous quote: “If you must be serious, please, give it a rest from time to time.”

A long time ago, Japanese society was ridiculed abroad for its ludicrous priggishness.

Today, our society is filled with revolting lies that are meant to hurt people.

A former Lower House lawmaker defiantly declared, “My statements have not been determined as human rights violations.”

A prefectural governor lambasted his subordinates’ accusations as “uso 800,” adamantly refusing to take responsibility even though the accusations have been proven to be true.

And across the Pacific, the president of a certain country seems to be flourishing, spouting off “alternative facts.” Couldn’t he possibly give his “jokes” a rest from time to time?

Just so you know: There are no lies in this column. Yes, today is April Fool’s Day.

—The Asahi Shimbun, April 1

* * *

Vox Populi, Vox Dei is a popular daily column that takes up a wide range of topics, including culture, arts and social trends and developments. Written by veteran Asahi Shimbun writers, the column provides useful perspectives on and insights into contemporary Japan and its culture.

Related News