Published posthumously in 1905, this book contains some of Hearn’s uncollected work
and is a charming interpretation of Japanese culture. In “The Romance of the Milky Way, ” Hearn examines the stories behind the age-old Tanabata festival. “Goblins” discusses poetry and some supernatural subjects particular to Japanese literature. “Ultimate Questions, ” is a lyrical response to Herbert Spencer’s philosophy. Other essays include “Stranger than Fiction” and “A Letter from Japan, ” written in 1904, describing how Japanese society dealt with its war with Russia.
Über den Autor
Patrick Lafcadio Hearn (1850-1904), also known as Koizumi Yakumo, was born in Greece, raised in Ireland, spent years in America, and finally became a citizen of Japan. A journalist and translator, he played a major role in introducing Japanese culture to the West. His translations of Japanese fairy tales and ghost stories were especially influential.