Kenji Miyazawa was a poet and writer whose work is deeply influenced by his lifelong devotion to Zen Buddhism and the Lotus Sutra. His writing often explores themes of compassion, nature, and the cosmos, frequently set against the stark landscapes of his native northern Japan. He employs vivid imagery and a dreamlike atmosphere to transport readers into worlds filled with wonder and philosophical reflection. Miyazawa's unique voice and universal themes continue to resonate, solidifying his place as a significant figure in Japanese literature.
Enchanting and enigmatic, these fairy tales weave together themes of morality, childhood, and the natural world. From animal allegories like "The Ungrateful Rat" to the poignant "Night Train to the Stars," where a magical journey brings children to the heavens, the stories reflect the brilliance of Kenji Miyazawa, a beloved early twentieth-century writer. With a mix of whimsy and darkness, they capture the essence of Japan on the brink of industrialization. The collection features a foreword by David Mitchell and an introduction by Kaori Nagai.
Kenji Miyazawa (1896-1933) is widely viewed as Japan's greatest poet of the
20th century. Strong in the Rain - this selection's title-poem - has arguably
become the most memorised and quoted modern poem in Japan.
Japanese fairy tales - enchanting, enigmatic stories of animals, human beings and the great natural world. Dark and innocent, sublime and whimsical, Miyazawa's stories have the ageless feel of the best fairy tales. There are animal allegories such as 'The Ungrateful Rat' where a rude rodent insults all the objects he meets - until he meets the Rat Trap/ There are morality tales such as 'The Restaurant of Many Orders', where two hunters become the hunted. There are also transcendent stories of childhood and mortality like Miyazawa's best-known 'Night Train to the Stars', where a magical steam train carries children through the night and up to the heavens. These stories reveal the unique brilliance of one of Japan's most beloved early twentieth-century writers. 'For readers who relish the disturbing material of fairy tale, the specificity and surprise of tanka, collisions of the everyday with the supernatural and glimpses of Japan right on the brink of industrialization, Kenji Miyazawa's masterly stories will be a delight' New York Times 'In several decades of translating Japanese into English, few works have given me so much pleasure (and hard work) as the tales of Miyazawa Kenji [...] more genuine originality, and a more universal appeal, than almost anything else I have done.' John Bester, translator 'Kenji Miyazawa fables are international-class' David Mitchell
Set against the backdrop of a magical train journey during the Star Festival, the story follows Giovanni, a lonely boy grappling with family struggles. Alongside his friend Campanella, he embarks on an enchanting adventure through the galaxy, encountering enigmatic characters that challenge their understanding of life. The narrative explores profound themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the human experience, all conveyed through Kenji Miyazawa's poetic storytelling and vivid imagery. This timeless tale resonates with readers, inviting reflection on life's deeper meanings.
The collection features three modern fables by Kenji Miyazawa, celebrated for his poetic storytelling and vivid imagery. Set in a magical world filled with sentient stars and enchanted forests, these tales explore the complexities of human nature, balancing light and shadow. Presented in manga form, the stories captivate imaginative readers of all ages, showcasing Miyazawa's unique ability to weave wonder into everyday life.
The story follows Giovanni as he embarks on a magical journey during a festival celebrating the Milky Way galaxy. Transported by a mysterious train, he encounters breathtaking sights and enigmatic characters, including a long-lost friend. This adventure blends wonder and nostalgia, exploring themes of connection and the cosmos.
Der junge Giovanni lebt allein mit Mutter und Schwester. Als die Mutter krank wird, und Giovanni neben der Schule Geld für die Familie verdienen muss, wird er in seiner Klasse zum Außenseiter. Nur Campanella, Sohn des Doktors und Giovannis bester Freund, hält zu ihm. Am Abend des Sternenfests finden sich die beiden Jungen plötzlich an Bord der Milchstraßenbahn wieder. Eine phantastische Reise durch den Nachthimmel beginnt, eine Reise voller Abenteuer und märchenhafter Wesen. Doch was hat es mit der Bahn tatsächlich auf sich?
Miyazawa Kenji verfasste diese "Märchen", um die Lehre des Mahayana-Buddhismus für einfache Menschen und Kinder verständlich zu machen. Die Erzählungen reichen von einem nahen Bergbach zu den fernen Tienshan-Bergen und den Sternen. Buddha's verstehendes Lächeln begleitet die Suche der Figuren nach ihrem Weg.
