Sei Shōnagon
Born: 12-31-966
Sei Shōnagon was a Japanese court lady and writer who served Empress Teishi during the Heian period. She is best known for her work "The Pillow Book," a collection of essays, lists, and anecdotes offering a vivid glimpse into court life and her personal reflections. Her keen observations and wit have made "The Pillow Book" a classic of Japanese literature, celebrated for its insight and poetic charm.
Book summaries for books written by Sei Shōnagon
Quotes
In spring, the dawn - when the slowly lightening sky is streaked with plum blossom.
The sound of insects in the evening. It is so faint that one can hardly hear it.
Things that are distant from one another.
A carriage passes, and the creaking of its wheels is the only sound to be heard.
A white coat worn over a bright red kimono.
A very thin robe that one can see through.
The sight of a man who has risen early in the morning to go off on a trip, wearing a hat that hides his face.
A boat with no oars tied up at a lonely inlet.
In spring it is the dawn that is most beautiful. As the light creeps over the hills, their outlines are dyed a faint red and wisps of purplish cloud trail over them.
A solitary fisherman far out on the water.
There is something very special about the morning hours.
A wild goose who has lost its mate.