Lafcadio Hearn 
Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan: First Series 

In Lafcadio Hearn’s ‘Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan: First Series’, readers are taken on a mesmerizing journey through the intricate and enigmatic culture of Japan. Hearn’s immersive prose delves into the daily lives, superstitions, folklore, and traditions of the Japanese people, unraveling the complexities of a society that is often misunderstood by the Western world. His vivid descriptions and keen observations provide readers with a deep insight into the nuances of Japanese life, making this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in Eastern culture. Written in a narrative style that combines travelogue with cultural analysis, Hearn’s work stands as a significant contribution to the genre of cultural exploration and ethnographic studies. Lafcadio Hearn, a Greek-Irish writer who spent a significant part of his life in Japan, was deeply fascinated by the country’s rich heritage and customs. His unique perspective as a Westerner living in Japan allowed him to bridge the gap between the two cultures, offering a profound understanding of Japanese society. Hearn’s personal experiences and interactions with the local people form the foundation of his writing, making ‘Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan’ a poignant and authentic portrayal of the country. I highly recommend ‘Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan: First Series’ to readers who seek to explore the depth and beauty of Japanese culture. Hearn’s eloquent prose and profound insights make this book a captivating read that will broaden your understanding of Japan and its people.

A propos de l’auteur

Lafcadio Hearn (1850–1904), born on the Greek island of Lefkada, was a writer of international renown whose work is characterized by his intense curiosity and deep affinity for the cultures about which he wrote. Renouncing his British nationality, Hearn moved to Japan in 1890, which proved to be the most defining move of his career. Known in Japan as Koizumi Yakumo, he embraced the country’s nationality and culture, to the extent of marrying into a Japanese family and becoming a naturalized Japanese citizen. Hearn’s fascination with Japan transcended that of a mere outsider—he delved into the heart of its folklore, religion, and customs, with a particular interest in the everyday lives of its people. This passion is reflected in his eminent work ‘Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan: First Series’ (1894), which provided Western audiences with one of the first in-depth introductions to Japanese culture. His literary style is often described as a blend of Romanticism with a keen ethnographic eye, marrying lush descriptions with insightful observations. Hearn’s other notable works include ‘Kwaidan: Stories and Studies of Strange Things’ and ‘The Book of Tea’, which have contributed significantly to the West’s understanding of Japanese aesthetics and spiritual thought. Hearn’s legacy persists as an intercultural bridge, as he documented a Japan at the crossroads of rapid modernization, respecting its traditions while gazing into its future.