Monday, October 23, 2006

recommended reading

Here are a few book suggestions, from the relevant to the random, in reference to my post discussing Jeffery's use (or not) of Japanese ghost and demon stories. To read that post scan down or click here.
Art
Japanese Ghosts and Demons: Art of the Supernatural by Stephen Addiss
Ukiyo-e: An Introduction to Japanese Woodblock Prints by Tadashi Kobayashi
Tattoos of the Floating World: Ukiyo-E Motifs in the Japanese Tattoo by Takahiro Kitamura
Fashion
The Japanese Revolution in Paris Fashion by Yuniya Kawamura
Fruits and Fresh Fruits (photographs of Tokyo street fashion) by Shoichi Aoki
History
Inventing Japan: 1853-1964 By Ian Baruma
Folklore
Kwaidan: Stories and Studies of Strange Things By Lafcadio Hearn
Film
Kwaidan (1964) Directed by Masaki Kobayashi (wide-screen DVD re-release)
Fiction
Hardcore Zen: Punk Rock, Monster Movies and the Truth about Reality by Brad Warner
Music
Hip-Hop Japan: Rap and the Paths of Cultural Globalization Publication Date: November 2006 (you can pre-order now) by Ian Condry (Click on Ian's name to go to his web site and listen to samples of Japanese hip-hop.)
NOTE: There is nothing authoritative or definitive about this list. Please feel free to add your own relevant or random recommendations!

2 comments:

junior_goddess said...

Kora-

You are my hero, because you actually took the time to look at this. I couldn't see the influence of Japanese ghost stories either.

I think what he was trying to recreate was the folding of kimono fabric. It's made in 14" wide bolts, so when it's laid flat, it's very simple and graphic. On a wearer, however, the fabric folds, and stops being linear. I think THAT is what he meant, but either his explanation or the editing did not convey that.

kora in hell said...

Oh my god! You know much more about this than I do! That is so interesting that the bolts are so narrow. His apron dress may have done that kind of folding. But what that has to do with ghosts and demons I don't know!!! Thanks for your comments!