Across Distant Shores

Across Distant Shores is an extraordinary literary voyage through the annals of Japanese history and culture, inviting readers to explore the rich tapestry of diaries kept by Japanese people over the past millennium. These diaries, penned by individuals from all walks of life, offer a unique window into the lives, thoughts, and experiences of a nation.

Within these pages, readers will embark on a journey of discovery, traversing the elegant prose of courtly ladies, the introspective reflections of Zen monks, and the poignant observations of commoners. Each chapter delves into a distinct era, revealing the intricacies of Japanese culture and the forces that shaped its evolution.

The book delves into the splendor of the Heian era, a time of refined aesthetics and literary masterpieces. It explores the rise of the samurai class during the Kamakura period and the profound influence of Zen Buddhism on Japanese thought and art. The narrative then moves to the Muromachi era, a time of trade and conflict, where readers will unravel the complexities of the Ashikaga shogunate and the devastating Onin War.

As the journey continues, readers will encounter the turmoil of the Sengoku era, marked by warring states and ambitious warlords. The pivotal Battle of Sekigahara, a watershed moment in Japanese history, is also brought to life. The Edo era, a period of relative peace and prosperity, is explored, highlighting the rise of the Tokugawa shogunate and the flourishing of popular culture, including Kabuki theater and the writings of Ihara Saikaku.

The book then examines the Meiji era, a time of transformation and Westernization, marked by the Meiji Restoration and Japan’s role in World War I. The Taisho era, a period of democracy and social change, is also explored, shedding light on the rise of political parties and the changing role of women in Japanese society.

Finally, the narrative delves into the Showa era, a time of war and recovery, examining Japan’s involvement in World War II and the tragic atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The resilience of the Japanese people in the aftermath of war and the country’s remarkable economic recovery are also brought to light.

Across Distant Shores is a captivating exploration of Japanese history and culture, told through the eyes of those who lived it. It is a book that not only informs but also inspires, offering readers a deeper understanding of the nation’s soul and the enduring spirit of its people.

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Publisher ‏: ‎ PageBook24.com (January 13, 2025)
Language : ‎ English
Dimensions ‏: ‎ 6 x 9 inches
Pages ‏: ‎ 188 pages

Pasquale De Marco stands as a prolific author whose literary prowess knows no bounds. With a passion for storytelling that transcends genres, he has made a name for himself as a versatile writer with the extraordinary ability to captivate readers across diverse literary landscapes. His journey as an author is marked by an insatiable curiosity, a love for the written word, and a relentless commitment to sharing knowledge and experiences with the world.

Pasquale De Marco collaborates with a dedicated team of ghostreaders who assist him in evaluating and editing the manuscripts. His collaborators are not only skilled professionals but also avid readers who purchase and read books as a personal hobby. This unique blend of creativity allows Pasquale to push the boundaries of traditional publishing, making literature more accessible and diverse.