Review: In Praise of Shadows

In Praise of Shadows by Jun'ichirō Tanizaki
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

More of an essay than anything. An interesting read into the aesthetics and tradition of Japan vs. modernity and Western encroachment.


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Review: The Secret History of the Lord of Musashi & Arrowroot

The Secret History of the Lord of Musashi & Arrowroot by Jun'ichirō Tanizaki
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The first story was quite interesting and fun, and I enjoyed the structure (with two different "sources", recreating the history of a notorious man). I think the second story could have been excellent, since the premise turned out to be really interesting. A man is exploring the history of his mother, whom he never met, and in doing so traverses the history and changes of Japan. Unfortunately, I found the narrator's discussion about his own research to drag on and on, and I can't really say it kept me as interested.

Still, I really like Tanizaki's style, which never seemed purely straightforward, with stories that are nuanced and subtle.

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Review: Storia di Tomoda e Matsunaga

Storia di Tomoda e Matsunaga by Jun'ichirō Tanizaki
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Very interesting premise and story, and I really liked the way it was revealed. In a way we can all relate to this, but I can't really get into it too much without spoilers. In essence, if you've ever wanted a change in your life, check out this story. 

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