The Essential Akutagawa
Twenty-Two Short Stories by Japan's Master Storyteller
(Author) Ryunosuke Akutagawa"Akutagawa displays an insightful and keenly creative intelligence in prose so lucid its sophistication is hardly visible." --Chris Power, The Guardian Japan's master storyteller Ryunosuke Akutagawa (1892 - 1927) wrote more than 150 short stories. Widely regarded as "the Father of the Japanese short story," he blended modern sensibilities with timeless themes to profound effect. This new anthology offers the most comprehensive collection of Akutagawa's work ever published in English. It features fresh translations of his most celebrated stories alongside many lesser-known and never-before-translated pieces: Rashomon: A destitute servant in old Kyoto faces a moral dilemma--starve or steal to survive An Odd Tale: A young woman is haunted by strange encounters with a station porter while her husband fights in World War I Shadows: A merchant receives anonymous letters about his wife's infidelity--only to come face-to-face with his own double In a Grove: Multiple, conflicting accounts of a samurai's death--this story inspired Kurosawa's legendary film Rashomon Hell Screen: A chilling tale of artistic obsession and its devastating cost, adapted from an ancient legend Momotaro: In this first-ever English translation, Akutagawa transforms a beloved folk hero into a biting satire of nationalism and war Plus 16 other major works by the Japanese master! An essential volume for every serious reader of Japanese literature--and a captivating introduction to one of the world's great literary voices.
Ryunosuke Akutagawa
Ryunosuke Akutagawa was a Japanese writer known for his innovative storytelling and exploration of the human psyche. His most notable works include "Rashomon" and "In a Grove," which served as the basis for Akira Kurosawa's film "Rashomon." Akutagawa is considered a master of the short story form, blending elements of traditional Japanese literature with modernist techniques. His works often delve into themes of morality, identity, and the nature of truth. Akutagawa's impact on literature can be seen in his influence on modern Japanese writers and his lasting legacy as one of the pioneers of Japanese literature in the early 20th century.
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