Five Women Who Loved Love
Five Women Who Loved Love
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1926
Book Brief
Super Short Summary
Five Women Who Loved Love by Ihara Saikaku, initially published in 1686, comprises five stories, each based on real events, focus on women from Japan's rising middle class who pursue love in defiance of societal norms. The tales are part of the ukiyo-zōshi genre, exploring the floating world of love and pleasure quarters, portraying their characters with psychological depth and dignity despite their transgressive acts.
Romantic
Emotional
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Five Women Who Loved Love by Hirayama Tōgo offers a poignant exploration of complex emotions and social mores through interwoven stories. Critics commend its lyrical prose and intricate character development, yet some note the pacing can feel uneven. The book's cultural insights and emotional depth make it a worthwhile, albeit occasionally challenging, read.
Who Should Read Five Women Who Loved Love?
Readers who enjoy Five Women Who Loved Love by Hirayama Tōgo are typically interested in historical Japanese literature, romantic tales, and cultural studies. Comparable to lovers of The Tale of Genji by Murasaki Shikibu or Snow Country by Yasunari Kawabata, they appreciate intricate narratives and emotional depth.
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