2.4 Other influential Meiji period authors and their contributions
4 min read•august 6, 2024
The Meiji period saw a boom in Japanese literature, with authors like and leading the charge. They blended Western influences with Japanese themes, exploring and women's struggles in a changing society.
Literary movements like and took root, while new journals and societies emerged. Writers experimented with fresh forms of poetry and prose, pushing boundaries and shaping modern Japanese literature in exciting ways.
Early Meiji Period Authors
Mori Ogai (1862-1922)
Studied medicine in Germany and introduced Western literature and ideas to Japan through his translations and writings
Known for his unique writing style that blended Western influences with traditional Japanese themes ( or The Dancing Girl)
Explored themes of individualism, , and the conflict between traditional Japanese values and Western ideas in his works
Notable works include , , and
Higuchi Ichiyo (1872-1896)
One of the first prominent female writers in modern Japanese literature, known for her depictions of the lives of women in the Meiji period
Wrote short stories and novels that focused on the struggles and hardships faced by women in a rapidly changing society ( or Growing Up)
Her writing style was characterized by its , psychological depth, and attention to detail
Despite her short life, her works had a significant impact on the development of modern Japanese literature and the representation of women in fiction
Futabatei Shimei (1864-1909) and Tsubouchi Shoyo (1859-1935)
is considered the founder of modern Japanese literature and is known for his novel (Floating Clouds), which marked a departure from traditional literary styles and introduced a more realistic and psychologically complex approach to fiction
was a literary critic, playwright, and novelist who played a key role in the development of modern Japanese literature
He wrote the influential essay (The Essence of the Novel), which argued for a more realistic and naturalistic approach to fiction and helped shape the direction of Japanese literature in the Meiji period
Shoyo also founded the literary journal , which became an important platform for the publication and discussion of modern Japanese literature
Literary Movements
Naturalism
A literary movement that emphasized the objective, scientific observation of human behavior and society, often focusing on the darker aspects of life (poverty, social inequality, and human suffering)
Influenced by Western writers such as Émile Zola and Guy de Maupassant, Japanese naturalist writers sought to depict reality in a more uncompromising and unvarnished manner
Key figures in the Japanese naturalist movement include Shimazaki Toson (The Broken Commandment) and Tayama Katai (Futon)
Romanticism and Realism
Romanticism in Japanese literature emphasized the expression of individual emotions, the celebration of nature, and the exploration of the human psyche
Writers such as Mori Ogai and Natsume Soseki ( or Pillow of Grass) incorporated romantic elements into their works, often blending them with traditional Japanese aesthetics
Realism, on the other hand, focused on the accurate and objective portrayal of contemporary society, often addressing social issues and the lives of ordinary people
Realist writers such as Futabatei Shimei and Higuchi Ichiyo sought to create a more authentic and nuanced representation of Meiji-era Japan in their works
Literary Innovations
Rise of literary journals and societies
The Meiji period saw the emergence of numerous literary journals and societies that played a crucial role in the development and dissemination of modern Japanese literature
Journals such as Waseda Bungaku, (The Weir), and (Literary World) provided platforms for writers to publish their works, engage in literary debates, and introduce new ideas and styles
Literary societies, such as the (Friends of the Inkstone) and the , brought together writers, critics, and intellectuals to discuss and promote modern literature
Experimentation with new forms of poetry and prose
Meiji-era writers experimented with new forms of poetry, such as (new-style poetry), which broke away from traditional poetic forms and incorporated Western influences
Poets such as ( or Tangled Hair) and ( or A Handful of Sand) pioneered new styles of poetry that expressed personal emotions and experiences in a more direct and colloquial language
In prose, writers such as Futabatei Shimei and Natsume Soseki experimented with new narrative techniques, such as the use of and , to create more complex and nuanced characters and stories
Key Terms to Review (29)
Bungakukai: Bungakukai refers to the literary circles or associations in Japan, particularly prominent during the Meiji period. These groups played a crucial role in fostering literary production and criticism, and they facilitated the exchange of ideas among writers, intellectuals, and artists. By establishing a network of support and collaboration, bungakukai helped shape modern Japanese literature and culture through various movements and literary innovations.
Futabatei shimei: Futabatei Shimei was a pivotal figure in the Meiji period, known primarily as a novelist and literary critic who introduced modern narrative techniques to Japanese literature. His works often reflected the social and cultural changes occurring in Japan during this time, and he played a significant role in shaping the literary landscape by blending traditional Japanese storytelling with Western literary forms.
Higuchi Ichiyo: Higuchi Ichiyo was a prominent Japanese author active during the Meiji period, known for her short stories that reflect the struggles of women in a rapidly modernizing society. Her works often depict the inner lives and emotional landscapes of female characters, making significant contributions to modern Japanese literature and establishing her as one of the first successful female writers in Japan.
Ichiaku no suna: Ichiaku no suna, which translates to 'a handful of sand,' is a poignant metaphor in modern Japanese literature, particularly reflecting the themes of existentialism and the human condition. This term captures the fleeting nature of life and the sense of futility that often permeates the works of Meiji period authors, who grappled with the rapid societal changes and personal disillusionment that characterized their times.
Individualism: Individualism is a social and philosophical concept that emphasizes the moral worth of the individual over collective or group goals. It promotes self-reliance, personal freedom, and the pursuit of one's own interests, which significantly influenced Japanese literature and culture as it evolved, particularly during periods of modernization and Westernization.
Interior monologue: Interior monologue is a narrative technique that captures a character's inner thoughts, feelings, and reflections in a direct and often unfiltered manner. This method provides readers with deep insights into a character's psyche, enhancing emotional engagement and understanding of their motivations and conflicts. In the context of influential Meiji period authors, this technique became a powerful tool to explore individual consciousness against the backdrop of rapid societal change.
Ishikawa Takuboku: Ishikawa Takuboku was a prominent Japanese poet and writer active during the late Meiji period, known for his contributions to the development of modern tanka poetry. His work often reflects personal themes of love, loss, and existential struggle, setting a tone that resonates with readers and significantly influences Japanese literature's emotional depth.
Kenyusha: Kenyusha refers to a group of literary authors and critics in Japan during the Meiji period who were influential in shaping modern Japanese literature. This term is associated with writers who were part of the literary movement that sought to redefine Japanese literature through a blend of Western literary influences and traditional Japanese themes, contributing significantly to the modernization of Japan’s cultural landscape.
Kusamakura: Kusamakura, which translates to 'grass pillow,' is a term that embodies a literary work by Natsume Sōseki, first published in 1906. This novel serves as a significant example of the transition from traditional to modern Japanese literature during the Meiji era, showcasing themes of solitude, existential introspection, and the search for personal identity. It blends psychological depth with a unique narrative style, influencing both contemporary writers and those of the Taisho period, who further explored psychological realism and innovative storytelling methods.
Maihime: Maihime, or 'dancing girl,' refers to a specific archetype in Japanese literature, especially prominent during the Meiji period. This term typically describes young women who embody both grace and a certain tragic beauty, often found in the context of modernity's clash with tradition. The concept of maihime illustrates themes of cultural transformation and the struggles faced by women as Japan transitioned from feudalism to a more Western-influenced society.
Midaregami: Midaregami refers to a traditional Japanese hairstyle characterized by disheveled or unkempt hair, symbolizing emotional turmoil, femininity, and sometimes rebellion against societal norms. This imagery of wild hair is often found in literature and art, especially during the Meiji period, reflecting deeper themes of personal struggle and identity in the context of modernization and social change.
Modernization: Modernization refers to the process of social, cultural, and economic transformation that societies undergo as they transition from traditional to modern ways of life. This concept is crucial for understanding shifts in literature, identity, and societal roles as writers respond to and reflect changes within their environments.
Mori Ogai: Mori Ogai was a prominent Japanese author and physician during the Meiji period, known for his contributions to modern literature and the introduction of Western literary forms into Japan. His works often explored themes of individuality, modernity, and cultural conflict, reflecting the rapid changes occurring in Japanese society during this transformative era. Ogai's writings are characterized by their psychological depth and rich narrative style, influencing future generations of writers.
Naturalism: Naturalism is a literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century, focusing on the depiction of life as it is, with an emphasis on realistic settings, characters, and events. This movement sought to understand human behavior through the lens of environment and heredity, suggesting that individuals are shaped by their circumstances and biology rather than by free will or moral choice.
Negishi Tanka Society: The Negishi Tanka Society was a literary group founded during the Meiji period in Japan, known for promoting the traditional form of tanka poetry. This society played a significant role in preserving and revitalizing tanka amidst the rapid modernization and Western influence on Japanese literature and culture. The members sought to foster a deeper appreciation for this classical poetic form, emphasizing its emotional depth and cultural significance during a transformative time in Japan.
Psychological realism: Psychological realism is a literary approach that emphasizes the exploration of characters' inner thoughts, emotions, and motivations, presenting a more authentic and complex view of human nature. It often delves into the psychological depth of characters, revealing their struggles and conflicts in a way that reflects real-life experiences and perceptions. This style became especially significant during the Meiji and Taisho periods in Japanese literature, where authors sought to portray the intricacies of human consciousness.
Realism: Realism is a literary and artistic movement that emerged in the mid-19th century, characterized by a focus on depicting everyday life and social conditions with accuracy and authenticity. This movement marked a shift away from romanticism, emphasizing ordinary characters and events rather than idealized or exaggerated portrayals. Realism greatly influenced Japanese literature during the Meiji period, as writers sought to reflect the changing realities of their society amid modernization and Western influence.
Romanticism: Romanticism is a literary and artistic movement that originated in the late 18th century and emphasized emotion, individualism, and nature, often as a reaction against the rationalism of the Enlightenment. In the context of Japan, this movement significantly influenced writers and artists during the Meiji period, leading to a blend of Western ideas with traditional Japanese aesthetics and themes.
Shigarami zoshi: Shigarami zoshi refers to a specific genre of narrative that emerged during the Edo period in Japan, characterized by its detailed and often intimate portrayal of the lives of individuals in social and political contexts. This genre showcases a blend of realism and poetic elements, reflecting the complexities of human relationships and societal constraints. It was influential during the Meiji period, as authors sought to explore themes of identity and societal change through this rich literary tradition.
Shintaishi: Shintaishi refers to a modern Japanese poetic form that emerged during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by its free verse style and focus on individual expression. It represents a shift from traditional Japanese poetic forms to a more contemporary approach, blending Western influences with native traditions and emphasizing emotional depth and personal experience.
Shosetsu shinzui: Shosetsu shinzui translates to 'the essence of the novel' and refers to a literary movement in Japan during the late Meiji period that sought to define and refine the novel as a distinct form of art. This movement emphasized realism, personal expression, and the psychological depth of characters, marking a shift from traditional storytelling methods to a focus on individual experience and social commentary.
Takekurabe: Takekurabe, often translated as 'growing up' or 'coming of age,' refers to a theme prevalent in Japanese literature that explores the transition from childhood to adulthood. This concept is central to understanding the emotional and social challenges faced by individuals during this transformative period, particularly in the context of Japanese society during the Meiji era and beyond.
The Abe Family: The Abe family refers to a prominent literary family in Japan during the Meiji period, particularly recognized for its contributions to modern Japanese literature and culture. The family included influential figures such as Abe Kōbō, whose works explored themes of existentialism and the human condition, and other family members who engaged in the literary scene, contributing to the broader discourse of the era.
The Wild Geese: The Wild Geese is a novel by Mori Ōgai, published in 1911, that reflects the complexities of modern life in Japan during the Meiji period. The story revolves around themes of love, betrayal, and the struggle for identity amid societal changes, showcasing the emotional turmoil of its characters caught between tradition and modernity. It stands as a significant work that contributes to understanding the broader context of Japanese literature during a time of rapid transformation.
Tsubouchi Shoyo: Tsubouchi Shoyo was a pivotal figure in Japanese literature during the Meiji period, recognized for his role as a writer, critic, and translator. He significantly contributed to the development of modern Japanese literature by introducing Western literary concepts and advocating for realism in writing, which marked a departure from traditional forms. His influence extended through his writings and the establishment of literary movements that shaped contemporary Japanese literature.
Ukigumo: Ukigumo, which translates to 'floating clouds,' is a significant literary work by the influential Japanese author Futabatei Shimei, written during the Meiji period. This novel is often regarded as one of the first modern Japanese novels and is notable for its use of naturalism and psychological depth, reflecting the changing social and cultural landscape of Japan. The themes explored in ukigumo resonate with the broader literary movements of the time, particularly as they relate to other authors and the emergence of female voices in literature.
Vita sexualis: Vita sexualis refers to the sexual life or sexual behavior of an individual, often emphasizing the cultural, social, and psychological dimensions of sexuality. In the context of Japanese literature during the Meiji period, this term encapsulates the shifting perceptions and expressions of sexuality as Japan underwent modernization and Western influence, allowing authors to explore themes of desire, identity, and societal constraints.
Waseda Bungaku: Waseda Bungaku refers to the literary movement and scholarship that emerged from Waseda University in Japan during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This movement was characterized by its focus on modernism, individualism, and the exploration of contemporary social issues, heavily influenced by Western literary styles while simultaneously incorporating traditional Japanese elements.
Yosano Akiko: Yosano Akiko was a prominent Japanese poet, feminist, and translator active during the late Meiji and early Taisho periods. She is best known for her innovative tanka poetry that challenged traditional forms and explored themes of love, gender, and social issues, making significant contributions to modern Japanese literature and advocating for women's rights.