The Narrow Road to the Deep North - A Haiku Poet's Journey

Discover the profound beauty of nature and the human experience through the evocative verses of Matsuo Basho in The Narrow Road to the Deep North and Other Travel Sketches. This classic masterpiece artfully blends poetry and prose, capturing the essence of a 17th-century Japanese poet’s wanderlust and quest for enlightenment. Its timeless themes resonate deeply, offering readers a glimpse into a world where nature, solitude, and spirituality intertwine. Translated by Nobuyuki Yuasa, this...

Discover the profound beauty of nature and the human experience through the evocative verses of Matsuo Basho in The Narrow Road to the Deep North and Other Travel Sketches. This classic masterpiece artfully blends poetry and prose, capturing the essence of a 17th-century Japanese poet’s wanderlust and quest for enlightenment. Its timeless themes resonate deeply, offering readers a glimpse into a world where nature, solitude, and spirituality intertwine. Translated by Nobuyuki Yuasa, this edition comes alive with accessibility, ensuring that even those new to Basho's brilliance will find profound meaning in his words.

Key Features:

• Expertly Translated: Nobuyuki Yuasa's translation captures the intricate beauty of Basho's original prose and poetry.
• Rich Historical Context: Includes an extensive introduction and notes that provide valuable insights into Japanese culture and history.
• Multiple Readings: Ideal for both casual readers and scholars, the book invites multiple readings to appreciate its depth.
• Emotional Resonance: Basho's work combines humor, melancholy, and a profound love for nature, making each reading an emotional journey.
• Beautifully Reflective: Perfect for writers and poetry enthusiasts seeking inspiration and reflection.

This collection is not just a book; it’s a culmination of travel diaries that record Basho’s encounters with nature, spirituality, and humanity. Aptly capturing moments of beauty amidst the simplicity of life, it reveals his journey across Japan, adorned with reflections on loneliness and self-discovery. Through the art of haiku, Basho transcends the limitations of his time, crafting poetry that speaks to the universal human condition.