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Book Synopsis

''A mistress of wry observation and scalding wit ... The Pillow Book retains its fresh, authentic appeal more than 1,000 years after its inception'' Japan Times

Written by the court gentlewoman Sei Shonagon as a journal for her own amusement, The Pillow Book is one of the greatest works of Japanese literature. A fascinating exploration of life amongst the nobility at the height of the idyllic Heian period, it describes the exquisite pleasures of a confined world in which poetry, love, fashion and whim dominated. From brief reflections to longer, lyrical tales, Shonagon moves elegantly across themes including nature, society and her own flirtations and frustrations, to provide a witty, unique insight into a woman''s life at court in classical Japan.

Translated with an introduction by Meredith McKinney

The Pillow Book

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Order before 4pm today for delivery by Sat 13 Dec 2025.

A Paperback / softback by Sei Shonagon, Meredith McKinney, Meredith McKinney

15 in stock


    View other formats and editions of The Pillow Book by Sei Shonagon

    Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd
    Publication Date: 30/11/2006
    ISBN13: 9780140448061, 978-0140448061
    ISBN10: 0140448063

    Description

    Book Synopsis

    ''A mistress of wry observation and scalding wit ... The Pillow Book retains its fresh, authentic appeal more than 1,000 years after its inception'' Japan Times

    Written by the court gentlewoman Sei Shonagon as a journal for her own amusement, The Pillow Book is one of the greatest works of Japanese literature. A fascinating exploration of life amongst the nobility at the height of the idyllic Heian period, it describes the exquisite pleasures of a confined world in which poetry, love, fashion and whim dominated. From brief reflections to longer, lyrical tales, Shonagon moves elegantly across themes including nature, society and her own flirtations and frustrations, to provide a witty, unique insight into a woman''s life at court in classical Japan.

    Translated with an introduction by Meredith McKinney

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