Kokin wakashū

Definition

Kokin Wakashū, often translated as 'Collection of Poems Ancient and Modern,' is a seminal anthology of Japanese waka poetry compiled in the early 10th century under the auspices of Emperor Daigo. It marks a significant moment in the history of Japanese literature as it established a standard for poetic expression and influenced subsequent imperial poetry anthologies. This collection not only highlights the evolution of waka poetry but also serves as a vital reference for understanding major genres and forms in premodern Japanese literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kokin Wakashū was commissioned by Emperor Daigo in 905 AD and reflects the poetic ideals and aesthetics of the Heian court.
2. The anthology contains over 1,000 poems, showcasing both ancient and contemporary works that emphasize themes such as nature, love, and seasonal changes.
3. It is divided into several sections based on themes, including seasons, love, and lamentations, which laid the groundwork for how future anthologies would be organized.
4. The Kokin Wakashū influenced later collections like the Shinkokin Wakashū and became a reference point for future generations of poets seeking to understand the art of waka.
5. The preface of Kokin Wakashū, written by Ki no Tsurayuki, discusses the significance of poetry in human emotion and its role in cultural expression.

Review Questions

• How did Kokin Wakashū contribute to the development of waka poetry during the Heian period?
  • Kokin Wakashū played a crucial role in shaping the development of waka poetry by establishing a refined aesthetic that emphasized emotional depth and thematic variety. The anthology compiled works from various poets, reflecting both traditional forms and contemporary innovations. Its organization into thematic sections allowed for greater exploration of subjects like love and nature, setting a precedent for future collections and influencing how poets approached their craft in subsequent generations.
• Discuss the significance of Kokin Wakashū within the context of imperial poetry anthologies that followed it.
  • Kokin Wakashū set a high standard for imperial poetry anthologies that followed it, serving as both a model for structure and thematic organization. Collections like Shinkokin Wakashū drew inspiration from its layout and subject matter, ensuring that subsequent works retained the sophistication introduced by Kokin Wakashū. The importance placed on poetic expression within this anthology helped solidify waka as a dominant literary form in Japanese culture, influencing how poets were perceived at court and beyond.
• Evaluate the impact of Kokin Wakashū on later generations of Japanese poets and its lasting legacy in literature.
  • Kokin Wakashū had a profound impact on later generations of Japanese poets by establishing foundational themes and styles that would resonate through centuries. Its influence can be seen in later collections that sought to replicate its emotional resonance and thematic depth. Furthermore, its preface by Ki no Tsurayuki emphasizes poetry's role as a means of expressing human experience, thereby cementing its place as an enduring legacy in Japanese literature. This anthology not only shaped the trajectory of waka poetry but also highlighted its significance within the broader context of cultural identity in Japan.

Related terms

Waka: Waka is a traditional form of Japanese poetry, typically consisting of 31 syllables arranged in a 5-7-5-7-7 pattern, which was highly esteemed during the Heian period.

Tanka: Tanka is a poetic form that is synonymous with waka; it consists of five lines with a syllable pattern of 5-7-5-7-7 and often expresses personal emotions and reflections.

Hyakunin Isshu: Hyakunin Isshu is another famous anthology of Japanese poetry, containing 100 poems by 100 different poets, which emerged later but is reflective of the tradition established by Kokin Wakashū.