An exquisite collection of Japanese poetry
This internationally bestselling book took the world by storm on its publication. Covering the discovery of new love, first heartache and the end of an affair, these poems mix the ancient grace and musicality of the tanka form with a modern insight and wit. With a light, fresh touch and a cool eye, Machi Tawara celebrates the small events in a life fully lived and one that is wonderfully touched by humour and beauty. This book will stay with you through the day, and long after you have finished it.
Machi Tawara (b. Osaka, 1962) is one of Japan's most popular tanka poets and is credited for giving new relevance to this millennia-old Japanese poetry form. Her first volume of tanka, Salad Anniversary (1987), became an immediate bestseller and turned its author into an instant celebrity. Salad Anniversary inspired televised serial dramas, a musical revue and a full-length movie, and went on to sell 8 million copies worldwide. She has been awarded multiple prizes for her poetry, including the Kadokawa Tanka Award and the Modern Japanese Poets Association Award. Tawara is also a critic, translator and travel writer, and contributes to various national newspapers and magazines in Japan.
'Unputdownable, essential Japanese poetry: read and love' Sunday Times, In Style
'A potent, distilled brew, like the headiest saké' The Lady
'These small jewels are delightful' Elle
'Japan has many tanka poets nowadays, but none can match Tawara' Japan Times
'Fresh, light, wonderful' Le Point
'One of Japan's most celebrated poets' Mark McGuinness, Magma Poetry
