Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ

Apparently it was the gift of a couple of reams of top-quality paper that inspired the author to "make a bound book" and start writing this. Later she sent a draft of it to the princess, only to have the messenger fumble the parcel and drop it down the stairs!

Apparently it was the gift of a couple of reams of top-quality paper that inspired the author to "make a bound book" and start writing this. Later she sent a draft of it to the princess, only to have the messenger fumble the parcel and drop it down the stairs!

Over a thousand years ago the Japanese fascination with beautiful paper products and getting "the correct paper" for a particular use was already in place!

This is a book to be sipped slowly, like a fine brandy. Lots of footnotes, lots of things to think about. A thousand years old and really not much has changed, though so much has changed so much.

Who knew that a thousand plus years ago, sleeves were so important! For men and women both, the layered effect of kimono sleeves was important enough to make sure they were carefully arranged and in the right colours. If no one was there to see the effect it could spoil an outing in a carriage! A different world.

Superficially a quick read, but one that may repay revisits. Lots of footnotes require an annoying amount of flipping back and forth, though.

Amazing experience to read a book that is over a thousand years old and yet seems so fresh. I find it curiously relaxing, which surprised me. Not a diary, more what was known in the 17th century as a "pocket book" where the author could jot down ideas, events, lists etc. Apparently Shonagon was one of the world's first "spin doctors", as she presents a well and intentionally crafted view of the Japanese court .