BOOK BRIEF

Essays in Idleness: The Tsurezuregusa of Kenkō

Yoshida Kenkō, 吉田兼好
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Essays in Idleness: The Tsurezuregusa of Kenkō

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1998

Book Brief

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Yoshida Kenkō, 吉田兼好

Essays in Idleness: The Tsurezuregusa of Kenkō

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1998
Book Details
Pages

235

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
Classic Fiction

Japanese Literature

Philosophy
Period
Asian Literature
Setting

Japan • 14th century

Topic
Philosophy

Religion & Spirituality
Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Essays in Idleness: The Tsurezuregusa of Kenkō by Yoshida Kenkō is a collection of reflective essays and musings by a 14th-century Japanese monk. Through personal anecdotes and observations on various aspects of life, the author explores themes of impermanence, the beauty of nature, and the human condition, offering timeless insights into Japanese culture and philosophy.

Contemplative

Melancholic

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

2,576 ratings

66%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Essays in Idleness: The Tsurezuregusa of Kenkō by Yoshida Kenkō is widely praised for its timeless reflections and poetic prose, offering insights into Japanese culture and human nature. Readers appreciate the philosophical depth and elegant style but note that its structure may feel disjointed to some. The translation quality varies across editions, affecting the reading experience.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Essays in Idleness: The Tsurezuregusa of Kenkō?

A reader who enjoys Essays in Idleness: The Tsurezuregusa of Kenkō appreciates reflective, philosophical musings on life's simplicity, similar to fans of The Pillow Book by Sei Shōnagon or Walden by Henry David Thoreau. They seek insight into medieval Japanese culture and timeless human nature observations.

4.1

2,576 ratings

66%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

235

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
Classic Fiction

Japanese Literature

Philosophy
Period
Asian Literature
Setting

Japan • 14th century

Topic
Philosophy

Religion & Spirituality
Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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