Hitomaro and the Birth of Japanese Lyricism

The book delves into the historical and cultural roots of Japanese poetry, examining how rituals shaped its origins. It highlights the significant influence of Chinese and Korean literature on the seventh-century Court and discusses the elevation of the imperial family through rhetoric, setting the stage for Hitomaro's emergence as a Court poet. Through this exploration, it provides insights into the interplay between poetry, politics, and cultural identity in early Japan.