Finally, we have for you The Poems of Nakahara Chūya (you might know the author as one of the characters from Bungo Stray Dogs, along with other famous writers: Osamu Dazai, Ranpo Edogawa, Jun’ichirō Tanizaki, Kenji Miyazawa, Ryūnosuke Akutagawa, Motojirō Kajii and Ango Sakaguchi). Nakahara is one of the most famous Japanese modernist poets (of which we have so far introduced you to Chika Sagawa.)
During his short life, Nakahara never worked and devoted all his time to literature. He was inspired by European experimental poetry and French literature, he translated Rimbaud, whom he adored, and his poems carry many influences of symbolism. He also often combined tradition with new ideas. His wors are delicate and elegant, full of references to nature, seasons, passing, often in a slightly nostalgic tone.
The Poems of Nakahara Chūya presents over 90 collected works in a great translation by Paul Mackintosh and Maki Sugiyama. The poems are preceded by an introduction with a biography and an outline of his work, and followed by footnotes that provide context and explain details that may not be clear.
