I agree, Okakura's "The book of Tea" provides an insight into a conservative strain in Japanese culture and elucidates Japanese traditional ideals of aesthetics and a tranquil acceptance of the ways of the past. One ought not, however, confuse this material which 99% of what is typical of Japanese culture in modern times.
Very cool film! Somehow I missed it when you first posted. Its a real treat to watch the craftsmen at work.
The openning shot, with the lattice-shadows cast on the shoji, is SO beautiful and so Japanese, it seems to me. Just can't get enough of that interplay between patterns of rectangles.
Thanks for posting this. I'm reading 'The Book of Tea" at the moment and this is perfect!
ReplyDeleteIf anyone is interested you can read it here:
http://www.sacred-texts.com/bud/tea.htm
Hi Chris in NZ,
ReplyDeleteI agree, Okakura's "The book of Tea" provides an insight into a conservative strain in Japanese culture and elucidates Japanese traditional ideals of aesthetics and a tranquil acceptance of the ways of the past. One ought not, however, confuse this material which 99% of what is typical of Japanese culture in modern times.
~Chris
I wish I could edit my comments!!
ReplyDeleteThat last sentence should read:
"One ought not, however, confuse this material WITH 99% of what is typical of Japanese culture in modern times."
Chris,
ReplyDeleteVery cool film! Somehow I missed it when you first posted. Its a real treat to watch the craftsmen at work.
The openning shot, with the lattice-shadows cast on the shoji, is SO beautiful and so Japanese, it seems to me. Just can't get enough of that interplay between patterns of rectangles.
Tom