Reflections on Japanese Taste: The Structure of Iki

Translated by John Clark; Edited by Sakuko Matsui and John Clark. Introduction by Nakano Hajimu

This is the first English translation of a landmark text outlining a distinctively plebian Japanese aesthetic based on a unique category of taste, iki. Anticipating many directions in postwar thought through its opposition of high and low culture, the book is essential reading for all students of Japanese culture. This edition is the only version of Kuki's text to provide full interpretive notes.