Exploring the Relevance of the Genji Monogatari in the Modern Era

For a long while, I have been working on this project about the Genji Monogatari, looking at how an 11th century novel – often considered world’s first, written by a woman no less — resonates in the modern era. Excited to put it out in the worldhttps://t.co/067jT42QKp

— Motoko Rich (@motokorich) April 15, 2023

It was after I had written an obituary of Jakucho Setouchi, a Buddhist priest and feminist author who had translated a bestselling version of Genji, that I decided I needed to read it myself. https://t.co/qkBDKlRL1O

— Motoko Rich (@motokorich) April 15, 2023

But what struck me repeatedly was how, despite the mysterious rituals, monarchal codes and allusive poetry of the Heian era, the novel spoke to me and reflected so much of my reporting on contemporary Japan.

— Motoko Rich (@motokorich) April 15, 2023

This novel is for any reader who loves royal and romantic intrigue, but also: marvel at how Lady Murasaki, the author, channeled the fear, suffering, disappointment, envy and anxieties of her female characters in a novel ostensibly celebrating the life of a “radiant prince”

— Motoko Rich (@motokorich) April 15, 2023

There is so much to savor in its 1,300 pages and I hope you will consider picking it up if you have not yet read it. It’s surprisingly readable and you can choose from four different English translations.

— Motoko Rich (@motokorich) April 15, 2023

Thanks especially to Dennis Washburn of Dartmouth, Melissa McCormick of Harvard and Saeko Kimura of Tsuda University for their insights and guidance in reading and understanding the "Genji."

— Motoko Rich (@motokorich) April 15, 2023