Description
NHK 100 Minutes on Classics: Ryokan Poetry Collection Book. The book delves into Ryokan's extensive collection of Waka (Japanese poetry) and Kanshi (Chinese poetry), which are characterized by their spontaneity, directness, and profound inner feeling. Publisher NHK Publishing. ✓ For U.S. buyers: All customs duties and fees are prepaid. You WILL NOT be charged any additional fees on delivery. Description Thank you for visiting the page! Ships with careful packing from Japan. This book offers a profound exploration into the life and poetic works of Ryokan (1758-1831), a revered Zen Buddhist monk from Japan's Edo period. Ryokan is celebrated for his unique perspective on life, often described as "bottom-up" or "from the lowest perspective," which allowed him to empathize deeply with the vulnerable and find joy in a life of simplicity and detachment from material possessions. Ryokan's life was a testament to his philosophy. Despite being born into a privileged family, he chose to become a monk at 18 and embraced an itinerant life, eventually settling in a small hut and supporting himself through begging. He was known for his gentle nature, his love for children—often playing games with them, which is reflected in his poetry—and his deep connection with nature. The book delves into Ryokan's extensive collection of Waka (Japanese poetry) and Kanshi (Chinese poetry), which are characterized by their spontaneity, directness, and profound inner feeling. His poems often convey a sense of melancholy and a deep appreciation for the present moment, encouraging readers to look inward and embrace their true selves. Beyond his poetry, this volume also examines Ryokan's philosophical connections, particularly his reverence for Dogen, a key figure in Japanese Zen Buddhism. It explores how Ryokan's life and works offer a "human compass" in a society often driven by competition and economic pursuits, urging readers to find meaning in their own existence. The content is structured to guide readers through Ryokan's journey, starting from his childhood, his embrace of a simple and pure life, his interactions with people and nature, and finally, his contemplation of aging and death. A special chapter is dedicated to understanding Ryokan's interpretation of Buddhism, highlighting the charm of his poetry and his comprehensive understanding of Buddhist principles, from enlightenment to popular faith. This book is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in Japanese literature, Zen Buddhism, or seeking inspiration for a more mindful and compassionate way of living. It presents Ryokan not just as a poet, but as a profound thinker whose insights remain remarkably relevant today. Specification Detail Publisher NHK Publishing Author Tozen Nakano Page Count 116 pages Format A5 size Publication Date December 2015 (original release), April 25, 2017 (re-release) Origin Japan Shipping FedEx, Japan Post, USPS ,etc(Not available for selection) Terms of Sale *A tracking number is provided for all orders.*In principle, the package will be delivered within 4 weeks after the tracking number is uploaded, but delays may occur depending on international conditions. Please contact your local post office for details. International Buyers - Please Note: For non-U.S. buyers:Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying.