About the Author

IVAN MORRIS wrote widely on Japan's ancient culture and modern politics, and translated many works from classical and contemporary literature. His books include The Mobility of Failure and translations of Mishima's Temple of the Golden Pavilion and The Pillow Book of Sei Shonagon. He died in 1976.

Reviews

"Morris's classic was first published in 1964." -Publishers Weekly^"A thoughtful scholar's reconstruction...a book which should delight anyone interested in Japan."-The New York Times Book Review"I cannot think of another work, born in academia, that can so justifiable be described as 'enthralling'." -Barbara Ruch, Professor of Japanese Literature and Culture, Columbia