The Pillow Book

We here at the blog have finally completed our reading of McKinney's translation of The Pillow Book. Since much of the book is not written in any specific chronological order, and consists of various lists and anecdotes, we read it slowly, trying to immerse ourselves in the court culture of Heian-era Japan over the course of several days. While it occasionally became something of a chore to read certain passages or anecdotes, one is utterly charmed by the wit, character flaws, and timeless qualities of life as portrayed by Sei Shonagon. The gossip, fawning praise of Her Majesty Teishi, and dismissive attitudes toward commoners can be a bit much, but the timeless quality of life and relationships, with the typical troubles of romance, raising children, proper social relations, moments of joy with friends and loved ones, etc. all speak to modern audiences. If a woman who lived over 1000 years ago can speak to readers from around the world today, then she's produced a timeless work that will continue to entertain, provoke, resonate, infuriate, and break hearts, even when so much of the genius behind her poetry and barbed tongue is lost in translation.