Markers of absurd philosophy in Kobo Abe's novels «The Kangaroo Notebook» and Valery Shevchuk's «Silver Milk»: a comparative aspect

The article is devoted to the study of the philosophy of absurdity in the works of Japanese writer Kobo Abe and Ukrainian author Valery Shevchuk. The work examines the novels «Kangaroo Notebook» and «Silver Milk» with the aim of identifying common and different markers of absurdity, as well as analyzing their existential basis. The study of absurdity in these works allows a deeper understanding of their uniqueness for their time and relevance for the modern reader. Absurdity in the works of Abe and Shevchuk is presented as a way of reflecting human alienation in a world that has lost its meaning. They address the theme of an individual's search for his place in a world where traditional values and social structures cease to be effective. Existentialism, as the philosophical basis of their works, helps to reveal the inner conflicts of the heroes struggling with their own identity and the absurdity of existence. The novels of Kobo Abe and Valery Shevchuk are unique for their time due to their innovative approach to exposing human nature through the lens of the absurd. Abe's Kangaroo Notebook explores the boundaries between reality and illusion, using symbolism and metaphor to convey an absurd worldview. «Silver Milk» by Shevchuk, in turn, demonstrates the absurdity of human existence through fantastical elements and psychological portraits of heroes searching for meaning in a senseless world. A comparative analysis of these two works allows not only to identify common features in approaches to the topic of absurdity, but also to emphasize the cultural and national features of their expression. Such studies are important for the expansion of the literary base and a deeper understanding of the influence of different cultures on the interpretation of philosophical concepts. The relevance of the works of Kobo Abe and Valery Shevchuk does not diminish over time, because they offer universal answers to questions that remain important for humanity in any era. This article highlights the importance of intercultural dialogue in literature and the potential of such comparative studies to understand global literary processes.