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In Praise of Shadows summary
Jun'ichirō Tanizaki
Brief summary
In Praise of Shadows by Jun'ichirō Tanizaki is a thought-provoking exploration of the beauty and significance of traditional Japanese aesthetics. It pays homage to the subdued, natural elegance that is often overlooked in our modern obsession with brightness and progress.
Table of Contents
In Praise of Shadows
Summary of key ideas
The Peculiarities of Light and Darkness
In In Praise of Shadows, Jun'ichirō Tanizaki deliberates on the stark variances between Eastern and Western aesthetics, magnifying the delicacies of shadow and darkness that prevail in Japanese traditional arts and architecture. Tanizaki argues that these nuances of shadows, which are often overlooked by the West, are vital to understanding the Japanese aesthetics and their love for subtlety and ambiguity.
Tanizaki emphasises the dichotomy between light and darkness and how the Western obsession with eliminating shadows alters our perception of beauty. He highlights how bright light, often sought after in the West, can suppress the beauty of delicate craftsmanship, such as gold embroidery on traditional Noh theatre costumes, that truly shine under diffused, shadowy light. Japanese aesthetics, according to Tanizaki, gravitate toward subtlety and understated elegance that are enhanced by shadows and half-light conditions.
Reframing Beauty in Objects of Daily Use
The book delves into the appreciation of beauty in everyday items and architecture from a uniquely Eastern perspective. Tanizaki talks extensively about traditional Japanese rooms, tea bowls, utensils, lacquerware, paper, food, and toilets. He posits that a profound beauty lies in their antiqueness, patina, and the play of shadows on surfaces. He laments how the glorification of all that is new, shiny, and bright, a trend largely imported from Western culture, belittles the subtle beauty of the old and shadowy.
Tanizaki critiques the overwhelming embrace of Western technology, arguing that it disrupts the harmony between the shadow and light that's quintessential in traditional Japanese architecture. He discusses the allure of Japanese paper, which, in its elegant creaminess, diffuses light into a soft illumination, creating a tranquil glow that exudes warmth and coziness, in contrast to the harsh electrical light widely adopted in the West.
Dining in the Shadows
With a sharpened focus on culinary aesthetics, Tanizaki elaborates on the cultural importance of shadows in Japanese cuisine. He expounds on how the cuisine relies heavily on seasonal ingredients, the time of day, and the surrounding shadow to enhance the aesthetic experience. The book claims that food served in lacquerware, under subtle light, embraces darkness and projects an air of mystery that bright lights douse.
Further, Tanizaki deep dives into the difference in preferences for beverages between the East and West. He emphasizes how, in contrast to the Western preference for transparent and colorless beverages, the Japanese favor murky, subdued drinks like sake that resonate with the temperament of shadow. This understanding of aesthetics, he asserts, is intrinsic to the Japanese essence.
The Extravagance of Simplicity
Towards the end, Tanizaki brings up the Japanese reverence for what he refers to as 'graceful simplicity.' He justifies why, despite all modern conveniences, Japanese might favor traditional toilets. He finds a spiritual and aesthetic connection in this simple, spartan sphere, suggesting that the experience of being in a dim, secluded room embraces the same principles of serene solitude, similar to Zens in their gardens.
In conclusion, In Praise of Shadows invites us to embrace the often understated beauty of shadows that forms an integral part of Japanese aesthetics. Through exploring the appreciation of shadow in daily life, Tanizaki encourages a reverential regard for simplicity and the subtleties ingrained in traditional Japanese culture, providing us with an alternative view to appreciate beauty in the darkness.
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What is In Praise of Shadows about?
In this thought-provoking essay, Jun'ichirō Tanizaki explores the beauty and significance of shadows in traditional Japanese aesthetics. He delves into the contrast between light and darkness, and how shadows enhance the appreciation of art, architecture, and everyday objects. Through poetic prose, Tanizaki invites readers to reconsider their perception of beauty and find value in the subtleties of shadows.
In Praise of Shadows Review
In Praise of Shadows (1933) explores the beauty of traditional Japanese aesthetics and why it is worth preserving. Here's why this book is definitely worth reading:
- It offers insights into a unique cultural perspective that encourages readers to appreciate the value of shadows and imperfections in art and everyday life.
- By contrasting the traditional beauty with the modern world, the book highlights the importance of simplicity and authenticity in the face of rapid technological advancements.
- Through poetic descriptions, the book creates a nostalgic and contemplative atmosphere, making the exploration of Japanese aesthetics a fascinating journey.
Who should read In Praise of Shadows?
- Those who appreciate contemplation and reflection on the beauty of simplicity and the subtle nuances of everyday life.
- Individuals with an interest in Japanese culture and aesthetics.
- Artists, designers, and architects seeking inspiration for a new perspective on their creative work.
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In Praise of Shadows FAQs
What is the main message of In Praise of Shadows?
The main message of In Praise of Shadows is a celebration of the beauty and subtlety of traditional Japanese aesthetics.
How long does it take to read In Praise of Shadows?
The reading time for In Praise of Shadows can vary, but on average it takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is In Praise of Shadows a good book? Is it worth reading?
In Praise of Shadows is a fascinating book that offers a unique perspective on beauty and aesthetics. It is definitely worth reading for those interested in Japanese culture and art.
Who is the author of In Praise of Shadows?
Jun'ichirō Tanizaki is the author of In Praise of Shadows.
What to read after In Praise of Shadows?
If you're wondering what to read next after In Praise of Shadows, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- God Is Not Great by Christopher Hitchens
- Philosophy for Life by Jules Evans
- The Laws of Simplicity by John Maeda
- On Being by Peter Atkins
- The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli
- The Communist Manifesto by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels
- Do No Harm by Henry Marsh
- Second Treatise of the Government by John Locke
- How Adam Smith Can Change Your Life by Russ Roberts
- The Republic by Plato