Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan: Second Series by Lafcadio Hearn
"Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan: Second Series" by Lafcadio Hearn is a cultural exploration written during the late 19th century. This work serves as a collection of essays detailing Hearn's profound observations of Japanese life, customs, and natural beauty, offering insight into a world that was largely unknown to Western readers of his time. The beginning of the work introduces Hearn's new home in Japan, a quaint two-story house situated behind a castle,
which he finds both charming and confining. He elaborates on the beauty of Japanese gardens, highlighting their intricate design and symbolic significance. In describing his personal garden, Hearn contrasts Western and Japanese gardening philosophies, emphasizing the artistry found in natural forms and the deep meanings attached to landscaping elements. His narrative reveals not only an appreciation for the aesthetic but also hints at a spiritual connection between the gardens, the stones, and the traditions that shaped them, setting the stage for a rich exploration of Japanese culture throughout the rest of the series. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
In a Japanese garden -- The household shrine -- Of women's hair -- From the diary of an English teacher -- Two strange festivals -- By the Japanese Sea -- Of a dancing-girl -- From Hoki to Oki -- Of souls -- Of ghosts and goblins -- The Japanese smile -- Sayonara!
Credits
Produced by John Orford
Reading Level
Reading ease score: 65.2 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read.
