(no subject)
So last Wednesday through the introduction of Nat I met Mr Kong, who very kindly lent us books on art and aesthetics. I chose Tanizaki Junichiro's In Praise of Shadows, translated by Harper and Seidensticker.
Tanizaki's essay was wholly on Japanese aesthetics and culture. And as the title suggests, how shadows and subtlety form a large part in appreciating Japanese culture, from its traditional toilets to the Noh theatre to unusual food and women. However, I was still taken aback by the difference in culture. And disappointed that we've lost the mystique of darkness as described by Tanizaki, perhaps forever.
The book provided an interesting perspective that perhaps all who are involved in some kind of creative work should consider. I would gladly read the original text, if not for my very hopeless (and almost non-existent) Japanese. And I want to try the persimmon-leaf sushi mentioned in the book.
Updated: Anyway, I tried Singapore Sling (in Sentosa) yesterday. Wasn't that great and I conclude that cocktails are not my thing. But met this old German guy who tagged along with us. Ahaha what an interesting experience. Too bad I don't speak German, if not it'd be a good opportunity to practise.
Tanizaki's essay was wholly on Japanese aesthetics and culture. And as the title suggests, how shadows and subtlety form a large part in appreciating Japanese culture, from its traditional toilets to the Noh theatre to unusual food and women. However, I was still taken aback by the difference in culture. And disappointed that we've lost the mystique of darkness as described by Tanizaki, perhaps forever.
The book provided an interesting perspective that perhaps all who are involved in some kind of creative work should consider. I would gladly read the original text, if not for my very hopeless (and almost non-existent) Japanese. And I want to try the persimmon-leaf sushi mentioned in the book.
Updated: Anyway, I tried Singapore Sling (in Sentosa) yesterday. Wasn't that great and I conclude that cocktails are not my thing. But met this old German guy who tagged along with us. Ahaha what an interesting experience. Too bad I don't speak German, if not it'd be a good opportunity to practise.