Yasunari Kawabata's literature often revolved around mysticism, sensualism, and tragedy; All factors present in Beauty and Sadness.[4]
Kawabata's writing was described by critics to be often filled with allusive imagery and suggestive sensuality. They also note that his novels would give the readers the feeling of loneliness and sorrow by finishing them off in an often vague manner; leaving the reader much to the imagination.[5][6] Like his other work, Snow Country, Kawabata also incorporated this kind of ending in Beauty and Sadness.[6] His writing incorporates the influence of Heian literature[4] to create a story that portrays literature expressionism and realism implied in his choice of words.[7]