Ikigai & Other Japanese Words to Live By

by Lesley Downer (Author), Michael Kenna (Photographer), Michael Kenna (Photographer), David Buchler (Author), Dr Mari Fujimoto (Author), Lesley Downer (Author)

• New

  Hardcover
  2019

  $12.19

  Enrich your own daily philosophy by way of the most expressive, contemplative words of the Japanese language
  
  Federico Fellini observed, `A different language is a different vision of life'. In a world of noise and commotion, the Japanese language offers us insights into a reflective culture whose concepts can enrich our own daily philosophy and light the way to living more contentedly.
  
  Introducing and explaining some of the most poignant of these Japanese words, Wabi-Sabi is a lifestyle as well as a language book. From the wistful poetry of mono-no-aware, a word that asks us to recognize the bittersweet transience of all things, to the mystery of myo (a spirit that imbues true beauty) and the quiet harmony of wa, which knits together all of society's structures, this book is an introduction to the intricacies and value of Japanese phrases and concepts. It hopes to inspire you to incorporate these words into your own lifestyle and adopt a more mindful attitude to life's stresses, seeking meaning beyond materialism.
  
  In addition to over 50 `words to live by', Wabi-Sabi features musings on the place of beauty, community, identity and nature in Japanese thought, teaching mindfulness by way of compelling haikus, illustrated by beautiful photography throughout.