The Life and Letters of Lafcadio Hearn, Volume 2

by Elizabeth Bisland

"The Life and Letters of Lafcadio Hearn, Volume 2" by Elizabeth Bisland is a collection of correspondence written in the early 20th century. This volume delves into the experiences and reflections of Lafcadio Hearn, a notable writer and translator renowned for his writings on Japan. The letters provide insight into his life, thoughts on Japanese culture, and his deep admiration for the country and its people. At the start of the volume, the reader is introduced to Hearn's expressive and passionate writing style through various letters addressed to friends and colleagues. He shares his feelings about Japan's beauty and cultural nuances, discussing the spirituality of its nature and simplicity of its people. Hearn confides his struggles with finding employment, his dedication to studying Buddhism, and his deep desire to immerse himself in Japanese life through teaching and cultural exploration. Together, these letters reveal both his personal challenges and his heartfelt connection to Japan, setting the tone for a rich exploration of his literary journey.