Heart's Flower: The Life and Poetry of Shinkei [Hardcover]

This literary biography is based primarily on Shinkei's own writings and is supplemented by various external sources. It includes annotated translations of Shinkei's most representative poetry. This book is must-reading for anyone interested in any area of medieval Japanese history, art, or culture. The biographical study of Shinkei (1406-75), who is a crucial figure in the development ofrengaas a serious genre of poetry, is the most detailed treatment in English of any medieval Japanese poet. Ramirez-Christensen is an excellent translator, and her book is deeply engaging for the sheer pleasure of reading the poetry.