Subject
No plays -- Translations into English Books
Best books
Arthur Waley
The Nō Plays of Japan
"The Nō Plays of Japan" by Arthur Waley is a collection of translations of traditional Japanese Nō dramas written in the early 20th century. This work introduces Western readers to the unique and stylized form of Japanese theater, capturing its essential cultural themes of fate, memory, and the human condition as they unfold through the richly poetic language and elaborate performances of the Nō plays. The plays often feature historical figures, ghosts, and spiritual elements that are central to the narratives. At the start of the collection, Waley provides an introduction that immerses the reader in the world of Nō theatre, discussing its significance and the staging and performance style that distinguish it from Western drama. The opening section presents three plays: "Atsumori," which revolves around the themes of guilt and redemption, introduces Kumagai, a warrior turned priest, who encounters the ghost of Atsumori, a young man he killed in battle. "Ikuta" follows a young boy seeking to meet his deceased father, Atsumori, and highlights themes of loss and parental connection. Finally, "Tsunemasa" explores the sorrow of a ghost who returns to listen to prayers dedicated to him. Through these narratives, the book encapsulates the profound spiritual and emotional depth characteristic of Nō plays.
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Certain Noble Plays of Japan: From the manuscripts of Ernest Fenollosa
"Certain Noble Plays of Japan: From the manuscripts of Ernest Fenollosa by Fenollosa et al." is a collection of traditional Japanese Noh plays, translated and adapted by the modernist poet Ezra Pound during the early 20th century. This compilation showcases the ethereal and symbolic nature of Noh theatre, reflecting the profound themes of love, loss, and the intersection of the human and spiritual worlds. The book combines ancient Japanese storytelling with the influences of both Fenollosa and Pound's unique literary styles, providing a lens into a rich cultural tradition. The collection encompasses several plays, such as "Nishikigi," which explores the unfulfilled love between earthly beings and their lingering regrets for not being together in life, and "Hagoromo," where a fisherman finds a lost feather cloak belonging to a celestial dancer. In "Kumasaka," the spirit of a former robber seeks redemption by protecting the land, while "Kagekiyo" tells of a blind father's reflections and lost glory. Each play is characterized by a strong sense of atmosphere, striking imagery, and spiritual contemplation, blending movement, music, and verse to evoke deep emotions. Pound's adaptations present the Noh form's elegance and restraint, inviting readers to appreciate the timeless beauty of these narratives.
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