Fushi Kaden

"Fushi Kaden" (2005) by Zeami , translated by Mizuno Satoshi, originally published around 1400.

"Fushi Kaden" is Japan's oldest treatise on Noh, written by Zeami, the master of Noh. Also known as "Kadensho," this work delves deeply into the Japanese concept of beauty, using the keywords "flower" and "mysterious." Comprised of systematic theory, beautiful and profound words, and exquisitely crafted prose, it is a rare treatise on the arts written by an artist himself.

The book includes the "Annual Training Articles" which lists specific training guidelines in chronological order from the age of seven, the "Objectives Articles" which help students grasp and express the essence of imitation, and the "Questions and Answers Articles" in a Q&A format. Finally, the "Appendix Oral Traditions" explains the essence of "flowers." The chapters and narrative style are clear and simple. The first beautiful "flowers" were cultivated and made to bloom by the Japanese themselves, parting ways with the culture introduced from the continent.

"In Praise of Shadows," "Fushi Kaden," "Tsurezuregusa." These are Japanese phrases that tickle my heart and make me want to speak them out loud. It's both a blessing and a sadness that the general public can now read these secret books that were kept secret until the Meiji era. (Ammel)