Bathhouse and Other Tanka

Tatsuhiko Ishii's new collection of poetry, "Bathhouse and Other Tanka," is a contemporary take on the classical poetic form of the tanka. He writes in one line, constructing his poems out of sequential one-line tankas, combining philosophical lyricism, inquisitive exuberance, and homoerotic desire. His poetry resonates with a mix of philosophical lyricism, inquisitive exuberance, and homoerotic desire, exploring themes such as love, lust, self-destruction, and the seven deadly sins. Hiroaki Sato, the bestselling author of "On Haiku," has been translating Ishii for over thirty years, capturing his rhythmic pulse and turn.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2023
Publisher: New Directions Publishing Corporation

Tatsuhiko Ishii's new collection of poetry, Bathhouse and Other Tanka, delves into the depths of human existence, revealing the shades of life as an existential being. Ishii, a master of the tanka form, has transformed it into a contemporary tradition with his unique approach. Instead of the traditional five-line verse, he writes in a single line, creating poems composed of sequential one-line tankas. This fusion of styles pays homage to both Basho and Lorca, as if they bathed together under the moon.

Ishii's poetry encompasses a range of emotions, from moving elegies to tributes to renowned poets such as Yukio Mishima, Genji (the Shining Prince), Ezra Pound, and Claude Lorrain. He also pays homage to the majestic volcanoes Popocatépetl and Mount Fuji. Through his philosophical lyricism, inquisitive exuberance, and homoerotic desire, Ishii's poetry resonates with readers on a profound level.

In one poem, he reflects on the aftermath of 9/11, where the ocean plane shines in the sun, signaling a new era of conflict. Another sequence showcases Proust through a photograph by Paul Nadar, while clipping pubic hair and washing a horse becomes a contemplation on the essence of real poetry. Ishii's ability to write about everyday experiences with such majesty is truly remarkable.

His poetry explores themes of momentary love, lust, self-destruction, and the seven deadly sins. With his vivid imagery and precise language, he brings these subjects to life in a way that is both captivating and thought-provoking. Hiroaki Sato, a renowned author who has translated Ishii's work for over thirty years, captures the rhythmic pulse and turn of his poetry, describing it as "harmful, a dream. Even the world, finally, due to poetry, liquefies."

In conclusion, Tatsuhiko Ishii's Bathhouse and Other Tanka is a masterpiece of contemporary poetry that pushes the boundaries of the tanka form. Through his innovative approach and profound insights, Ishii invites readers to explore the depths of human existence and contemplate the complexities of the world. His poetry is a testament to the power of language and the enduring relevance of classical poetic traditions.

Weight: 173g
Dimension: 216 x 140 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780811231343