In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of the Aestheticism movement in Japanese literature, known as 耽美派 (Tanbi-ha). Rooted in the idea that beauty itself holds intrinsic value, Tanbi-ha emerged in opposition to the stark realism of Naturalism, favoring instead a devotion to art, sensuality, and the pursuit of beauty as life’s highest goal. We’ll explore how writers like Kitahara Hakushu, Nagai Kafū, Jun’ichirō Tanizaki, and others shaped this movement, each weaving aesthetics into narratives that continue to influence Japanese culture and literature.

Join me as we unpack the backgrounds, inspirations, and notable works of these visionary authors, who were drawn to both traditional Japanese beauty and Western influences from writers like Charles Baudelaire and Oscar Wilde. Discover the themes of passion, transience, and artistic elegance that define Tanbi-ha and consider its lasting impact on Japan’s literary landscape.

Whether you’re new to the Aestheticism movement or a longtime admirer, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on Japan’s journey through beauty, art, and literature.

Dive into the world of 耽美派 with my curated audiobook collection!

1. ​Charles Baudelaire

[Bilingual JP/FR]「港」ボードレール Le Port - Baudelaire

https://youtu.be/zA-ypy7A7KQ

1. ​Mori Ōgai

Episode 2023-03 Ogai MORI (森鴎外)- Author Spotlight in English

https://youtu.be/hdn-_8cjfnU

1. ​Ueda Bin

Kaichō on by Bin UEDA 上田敏『海潮音』(全) Part 1

https://youtu.be/9OFIsLc6GrA

1. ​Kitahara Hakushu

“Heretics” by Hakushu KITAHARA ( Unabridged ) 北原白秋『邪宗門』(全) (1)

https://youtu.be/veuR9bzcUy4

1. ​Nagai Kafū

永井荷風 (Kafu NAGAI)

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwqiwuMgsh-J1d8VZCOKn6ikzawXRCWLL

1. ​Jun’ichirō Tanizaki

谷崎潤一郎 ( Junichiro TANIZAKI )

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwqiwuMgsh-LWMetKiddCwyjrI2rR_FPI

About Kasumi Kobayashi – Narrator at 南風舎 (Nan’pusha)

Welcome! I’m Kasumi Kobayashi, a passionate narrator and podcaster dedicated to sharing the beauty of Japanese literature, culture, and philosophy with a global audience. Through my storytelling, I bring both classic and modern Japanese works to life, weaving in my personal experiences with Iaido and Noh to offer deeper connections to Japan’s timeless traditions.

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