Hagakure is a book that delves into the warrior culture of feudal Japan, focusing on proverbs, observations, and lessons on bushido. Written by Yamamoto Tsunetomo, a samurai who was forbidden to perform junshi, the book is a compilation of his views on bushido and the warrior code. The writing style is fragmented but offers a distillation of Eastern Wisdom, with historical perspectives mixed with wisdom and a unique mindset that provides insight into the spiritual underpinnings of samurai culture.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is fragmented and concise, often conveying aphorisms, advice, and cultural insights.

Plot/Storyline:

The book consists of commentaries reflecting on the warrior ethos and bushido amidst a time of peace, recording significant thoughts on loyalty and sacrifice.

Setting:

The setting is feudal Japan, particularly during the Tokugawa period, reflecting on the fading samurai class and culture.

Pacing:

The pacing is slow and meditative, making it better for occasional reading rather than continuous engagement.

Although it stands to reason that a samurai should be mindful of the Way of the Samurai, it would seem that we are all negligent. Consequently, if someone were to ask, "What is the true meaning of the...

Genres:

Topics:

loyalty and servitude

Notes:

Hagakure means 'Hidden by the Leaves' in Japanese.

It was compiled from conversations between Yamamoto Tsunetomo and his scribe Tashiro Tsuramoto from 1709 to 1716.

Tsunetomo was a former retainer to a samurai lord and became a monk after his master's death.

The book remained largely forgotten for 200 years until it was rediscovered during the Pacific War.

Hagakure emphasizes the importance of loyalty, often at the expense of personal independence.

The advice in Hagakure is presented in small, fragmented sections, making it suitable for daily reading.

The text reflects Tsunetomo's longing for a bygone era of samurai warfare, despite being written in a time of peace.

The book describes bushido, the warrior code, as the 'Way of Dying,' indicating a readiness for death at any moment.

It includes proverbs and wisdom, but some ideas may seem culturally specific or outdated by modern standards.

The book is seen as a mix of practical advice, spiritual guidance, and traditional samurai culture.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book discusses themes of ritual suicide, loyalty to the point of martyrdom, and cultural norms that may be considered archaic or sexist, which could be triggering for some readers.

From The Publisher:

Based on William Scott Wilson's definitive translation, adapted by scriptwriter and comic book/manga author Sean Wilson, and with lively drawings by well-known illustrator Chie Kutsuwada, this first-ever graphic treatment of what's considered the most influential of all samurai treatises is sure to delight manga fans, martial arts enthusiasts, and students of Japanese culture.

Reminiscent of The Arabian Nights in structure, Hagakure is a collection of tales and anecdotes that offer instruction and insight into the philosophy and code of behavior that foster the true spirit of Bushido - the Way of the Warrior. A young, upcoming samurai seeks the advice of an older, seasoned warrior who has become a Zen monk. The ambitious young samurai humbly begs to learn from the old master, who consents. So begins a series of eventful meetings.

At each sitting. the master tells his young student tales of samurai past. Tales of famous warriors are recited, as well as ignoble gaffs. With brutal, unrelenting samurai justice, wrongs are righted and judgment is enacted. With each incident, the young novice learns what it means to be a samurai. Learns what courage and right thought are. Learns the harsh realities and subtle wisdom of his age.

Writer Sean Wilson and illustrator Chie Kutsuwada both bring ample experience in the genre to this project. And, as an added bonus, William Scott Wilson, the translator of the original Kodansha International version of the book, provides an illuminating Afterword.

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Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai

Yamamoto Tsunetomo