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A review by hopeloveslit
The Narrow Road to the Deep North and Other Travel Sketches by Matsuo Bashō
3.5
The Narrow Road to the Deep North and Other Travel Sketches is the second book I’ve read by Bashō. I love traveling back to 17th-century Japan with him. He viewed his surroundings and the world in such a beautiful and inspiring way. His work compels you to slow down and appreciate everything about this extraordinary planet.
“Every turn of the road brought me new thoughts and every sunrise gave me fresh emotions.”
This collection is an insightful look into Bashō’s extensive travels through mountains, villages, and wherever his wandering spirit transported him. There is a masterful mix of classic Bashō poetry and prose. The sketches were adorable and enhanced the reading experience.
“In this mortal frame of mine which is made of a hundred bones and nine orifices, there is something, and this something is called a wind-swept spirit for lack of a better name, for it is much like a thin drapery that is torn and swept away at the slightest stir of the wind.”
Bashō speaks about the ancients on his travels. I loved how rich in history his words were. Although I enjoyed this collection, the meanings of Bashō’s poetry didn’t translate well to English. In Japanese, I’m certain this book would have received four stars! Nonetheless, I’d recommend it, especially if you enjoy reading about travel.
“A thicket of summer grass
Is all that remains
Of the dreams and ambitions
Of ancient warriors.”
“Every turn of the road brought me new thoughts and every sunrise gave me fresh emotions.”
This collection is an insightful look into Bashō’s extensive travels through mountains, villages, and wherever his wandering spirit transported him. There is a masterful mix of classic Bashō poetry and prose. The sketches were adorable and enhanced the reading experience.
“In this mortal frame of mine which is made of a hundred bones and nine orifices, there is something, and this something is called a wind-swept spirit for lack of a better name, for it is much like a thin drapery that is torn and swept away at the slightest stir of the wind.”
Bashō speaks about the ancients on his travels. I loved how rich in history his words were. Although I enjoyed this collection, the meanings of Bashō’s poetry didn’t translate well to English. In Japanese, I’m certain this book would have received four stars! Nonetheless, I’d recommend it, especially if you enjoy reading about travel.
“A thicket of summer grass
Is all that remains
Of the dreams and ambitions
Of ancient warriors.”