Collection of Old and New Songs of Japan

“Collection of Old and New Songs of Japan” (“Kokin Wakashū”) belongs to the widely recognized masterpieces of Japanese classical literature. It is impossible to discuss the history of Japanese poetry without mentioning this book. According to Ki no Tsurayuki, the compiler of the anthology, “the songs of Japan… grow from the seeds of human hearts, turning into countless leaves of words.” The exquisite, delicate poetics contained within the lines of “Kokin Wakashū” describe the surrounding world through the changing seasons, love's longing, a fleeting moment of happiness before parting… The themes of “Kokin Wakashū” resonate with contemporary readers, sensitive to the beauty of poetic words. This edition presents a complete translation of the “Collection of Songs,” made by the renowned Orientalist Alexander Arkadyevich Dolin, as well as his introduction and detailed commentary.