Japan Story

Discover the multifaceted narrative of modern Japan with our brilliantly insightful book, Japan Story. This comprehensive exploration delves deep into the cultural landscape of Japan from its mid-19th century modernization to present day. Through the eyes of those who questioned modernity, the book highlights a diverse range of perspectives — including artists, writers, and rebels — who all grappled with the tumultuous changes their country faced. From dramatic tales of ghost stories and surrealist art to the stories of kamikaze pilots and the struggles of the urban poor, Japan Story reveals the profound psychological impact of Japan's rapid modernization. Every page offers a captivating glimpse into the darker undercurrents of what often goes unnoticed in the narrative of progress, showcasing the 'dark blossoms' of Japanese society — individuals who embody the paradox of tradition and modernity. Perfect for readers searching for an authentic account of Japan's modern culture, this B-format paperback is a must-have addition to any bookshelf. With 528 pages of stunning storytelling and critical insight, explore this essential read today. Enjoy FREE shipping on your order and immerse yourself in the unique narrative that is Japan Story, where the past and present collide in unexpected and enlightening ways.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780141985374
Format: B-format paperback
Year: 2019
Publisher: Penguin UK
Pages: 528


Description:
Japan Story is a fascinating, surprising account of Japan's culture, from the 'opening up' of the country in the mid 19th century to the present, through the eyes of people who always had their doubts about modernity - who greeted it not with the confidence and grasping ambition of Japan's familiar modernizers and nationalists, but with resistance, conflict, distress.

We encounter writers of dramas, ghost stories and crime novels where modernity itself is the tragedy, the ghoul and the bad guy; surrealist and avant-garde artists sketching their escape; rebel kamikaze pilots and the put-upon urban poor; hypnotists and gangsters; men in desperate search of the eternal feminine and feminists in search of something more than state-sanctioned subservience; Buddhists without morals; Marxist terror groups; couches full to bursting with the psychological fall-out of breakneck modernization. These people all sprang from the soil of modern Japan, but their personalities and projects failed to fit. They were 'dark blossoms'- both East-West hybrids and home-grown varieties that wreathed, probed and sometimes penetrated the new masonry and mortar of mainstream Japan.

This product has FREE shipping however combined shipping for other products is not available with this item. Please allow up to 10 days for shipping.