The fifth volume, "Hotaru" (Firefly) through "Fujiura Cigarette," covers events from May, when Genji was 36, to October, when he was 39.
Tamakazura cannot hide her confusion when Genji hints at his love for her. Her beauty captivates many noblemen, and she receives marriage proposals, but it is none other than General Higekuro who wins her. Meanwhile, the Minister of the Interior finally approves of Yugiri's childhood love affair with Kumoi no Kari. Genji rises to the rank of Quasi-Grand Emperor, and the world is engrossed in the supreme honor of an imperial visit to Rokujo-in by the Emperor and Emperor Suzaku.
The essay at the end of the volume discusses the use of "kusushi" (literally, "soshichi"), a style of narrative in which the narrator (author) speaks directly and is conscious of the reader. Compared to other narrative works, "The Tale of Genji" features a richer variety of kusushi. A deeper understanding of kusushi will allow you to fully appreciate the world of "Genji: The True Translation."
[Features of this Book]
1. The translation is written in beautiful, correct Japanese, capturing the narrative style that is the essence of the story.
2. The story text is translated faithfully, and for the first time, the translation is presented in a text-by-text format, with the story itself shown in the bottom column.
3. Quotations that cannot be included in the translation, as well as explanations of place names, annual events, and courtly functions, are clearly presented in the top column.
4. The translation is effective and careful, emphasizing honorific language and taking into consideration the characters' status and interpersonal relationships.
5. Subjects omitted in the story text are added as appropriate, and names are given in parentheses for characters referred to as official titles or ladies and princesses, as appropriate, to aid comprehension.
6. The translation is divided into paragraphs with subheadings to clearly explain the content. A "Subheading List" is also provided at the beginning of the book, allowing readers to see the development of each volume at a glance.
7. Each volume includes supplementary illustrations and interesting essays to deepen their understanding of The Tale of Genji.
