The Ink Dark Moon

The Heian court in Japanese history allowed aristocratic women to marry and have love affairs, and these poems reflect the courtly manner of expressing oneself with a poem of five lines. They are full of dreams, autumns, lovers, desire, wonderment, and loneliness, and are translated by Jane Hirshfield with Mariko Aratani.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 19 January 2023
Publisher: Vintage Publishing

Here is the rephrased text:

In the Heian court of Japan, a time of immense cultural and artistic flourishing, aristocratic women enjoyed a unique freedom to pursue love and relationships as they pleased. The pursuit of education and refinement was highly esteemed, and the courtly manner of expressing oneself through poetry became an art form. Whether it was to convey condolences for a death, send a forgotten fan, or heighten the anticipation of a lover's visit, a poem of just five lines was considered the perfect medium.

A sense of secrecy and intrigue permeated these love poems, adding an extra layer of emotional depth to their words. The poets captured the essence of love in all its forms, from the passionate intensity of new relationships to the bittersweet nostalgia of lost loves. With remarkable economy of language, unforgettable imagery, and a modern perspective, these poems have stood the test of time and continue to captivate readers with their raw and authentic portrayal of human emotions.

Translated by Jane Hirshfield with Mariko Aratani, this edition of the poems brings their story to life with a detailed introduction and notes on the translation. It provides a deeper understanding of the historical context and cultural influences that shaped these remarkable works of art. Whether you are a lover of poetry or simply seeking to explore the rich tapestry of human emotions, these sexy, brief, fleeting poems about love, lust, and longing offer a captivating glimpse into the hearts and minds of a bygone era.

Weight: 180g
Dimension: 129 x 177 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781784878245