Max Dauthendey
Die acht Gesichter am Biwasee: Japanische Liebesgeschichten
"Die acht Gesichter am Biwasee: Japanische Liebesgeschichten" by Max Dauthendey is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The work explores themes of love, nature, and the interplay between human emotions and the landscapes of Japan, particularly focusing on the Biwasee region. Central to the narratives are poignant characters like Hanake and Kiri, who navigate the complexities of love amid the backdrop of societal changes and personal turmoil. The opening portion of the collection describes the mystical beauty of Biwasee and the various "faces" of the landscape that symbolize different aspects of love. It introduces Hanake, a beautiful and wealthy girl who feels an impending sense of change as the Western world encroaches upon her life in Japan. The narrative unfolds as Hanake experiences a mix of love, loss, and the weight of societal expectations, culminating in a dramatic encounter with fate when she nearly drowns after being captivated by three returning sailboats that symbolize different emotional states. The vivid settings and emotional depth set the stage for the exploration of love's myriad forms that resonate throughout the collection.