logo
undefined by undefined - Book Cover
pagesundefined by undefined - Book Cover
175
Reddit meter
all mentions

In Praise of Shadows

56 pages, 1977

Takeaways
Description
A writer, poet and beauty expert, Murasaki Shikibu's book of essays explores architecture, jade, food and even toilets, combining an acute sense of the use of space in buildings with descriptions of lacquerware under candlelight and women in the darkness of the house of pleasure.
Appreciation of Shadows

In Praise of Shadows by Jun'ichirō Tanizaki explores the beauty of shadows. He argues that shadows are not just absence of light, but they hold their own unique beauty. This perspective encourages us to see the world in a different light, appreciating the subtleties and nuances that are often overlooked.

Contrast between East and West

Tanizaki's book offers a fascinating comparison between Eastern and Western aesthetics. He suggests that while Western cultures often seek to eliminate shadows, Eastern cultures, particularly Japan, embrace them. This contrast can make us rethink our own cultural biases and preferences.

Reflection on Modernity

Jun'ichirō Tanizaki uses the concept of shadows to reflect on the impact of modernity. He suggests that the modern world, with its bright lights and clear lines, has lost some of the depth and mystery that shadows provide. This can inspire us to find balance in our own lives between the old and the new.

The Beauty of Imperfection

In Praise of Shadows encourages us to find beauty in imperfection. Tanizaki argues that the beauty of an object comes not from its perfect form, but from the shadows and subtle imperfections that give it character. This can help us to appreciate the beauty in our own imperfections.

The Power of Subtlety

Tanizaki's book invites us to explore the power of subtlety. He suggests that the most profound beauty often lies in the subtle, the understated, and the overlooked. This can encourage us to look deeper into our surroundings and find beauty in unexpected places.

Quotes 4

Tanizaki's 'In Praise of Shadows' is a profound reflection on the aesthetics of Japanese culture, a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the heart of our traditions.

Haruki MurakamiHaruki Murakami - Japanese novelist

Tanizaki's work, especially 'In Praise of Shadows', has been a significant influence on my own writing. His exploration of light and darkness in Japanese aesthetics is unparalleled.

Kazuo IshiguroKazuo Ishiguro - Nobel laureate author

In 'In Praise of Shadows', Tanizaki beautifully captures the essence of Japanese aesthetics. It's a book that has deeply influenced my art.

Yoko OnoYoko Ono - Multimedia artist

Tanizaki's 'In Praise of Shadows' is a book that has greatly influenced my understanding of Japanese aesthetics and culture.

Ken WatanabeKen Watanabe - Japanese actor
Haruki MurakamiKazuo IshiguroYoko OnoKen Watanabe

Recommendations

2
authorTim Ferriss, media personality and technology and venture capitalist and author, Recommending BestBooks

Tim Ferriss

media personalitytechnologyventure capitalistauthor
authorJason Fried, entrepreneur and technology and venture capitalist and author, Recommending BestBooks

Jason Fried

entrepreneurtechnologyventure capitalistauthor

In Praise of Shadows found in libraries

1
157 books

Books For Artists

Elevate your artistic skills and become the best artist you can be with the best Books for Artists.