Ariake: Poems of Love and Longing

Someone in my poetry class brought this book in and I liked it, so I ordered it. The poems are lovely, but, due to my eyesight, I need to use a magnifying glass to read them, but I knew that. It was the illustrations that made ne want to own a coy. They are gorgeous.

I have loved Asian (Japanese, Chinese, Korean) poetry most of my life and when I saw this little 79 page hardcover (Ariake: Poems of love and longing by the women courtiers of ancient Japan) book on Amazon for a bargain price I immediately purchased it. Ariake refers to “the waning moon of dawn.” In early Japan this was associated with love in the ancient courts of Japan.Personally, my favorite kinds of Japanese poetry are Haiku and Senryu; however I also enjoy reading all kinds of Asian poetry. This book combines the Japanese 31-syllable Waka style poetry and beautifully illustrated images illustrated by Rae Grant. The forward by Liza Dalby provides a brief back ground of the love poems written by the women of the Japanese court in ancient Japan.Here is a sample of a poem written by Ono no Komachi:Although my feetNever cease running to youOn the path of dreams,Such nights of love are never worthOne glimpse of you in reality.If you enjoy reading Japanese erotic poetry you will love this little volume.Rating: 4 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Martial Art and Warrior Haiku and Senryu).

Ah, the bewitching age of dynasties never fails to fascinate with the lovely and lyrical verses of longing...These poems have that passionate elegance - a spark that is about to burst into flame. The collages make for a truly exquisite gift. Read this with a lover - or a potential lover! Try writing your own! Like desire itself, I found myself wanting more.

Used good in very good condition as advertised. Compilation of medieval Japanese poetry by various translators, with lovely collages throughout.