About the Author
Lady Sarashina
ISBN 9780140442823
Rs. 958
Penguin Classics
As I Crossed a Bridge of Dreams
recollections of a woman in eleventh-century Japan
Who it's for: Readers interested in classical Japanese literature, cultural history, and women's voices of the past.
Lady Sarashina’s memoir, written in the early 11th century, offers a rare, intimate glimpse into the life of a Heian-period lady-in-waiting. Born in 1008, she records her travels, pilgrimages, and reflections with a quiet lyricism that makes her work one of the earliest and most distinctive examples of Japanese travel writing. Why You Should Read? Captures the inner life and experiences of a Heian-era noblewoman. Recognised as an early and unique contribution to Japanese travel literature. Ideal for readers interested in classical literature, cultural history, and women’s voices of the past. This edition presents a clear, accessible translation that preserves the work’s subtle beauty.
Highlights
- Written in the early 11th century by Lady Sarashina, a Heian-period lady-in-waiting.
- One of the earliest and most distinctive examples of Japanese travel writing.
- Offers a rare, intimate glimpse into the life of a Heian-era noblewoman.
- Records travels, pilgrimages, and personal reflections with quiet lyricism.
- Translated by Ivan Morris, preserving the work's subtle beauty.
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Sign inQuestions about this book
Who is the author of this book?
The author is Lady Sarashina, a Japanese noblewoman born in 1008. The translation is by Ivan Morris.
What is the book about?
It is Lady Sarashina's memoir, written in the early 11th century, recording her travels, pilgrimages, and reflections as a Heian-period lady-in-waiting.
Why is this book significant?
It is recognized as an early and unique contribution to Japanese travel literature, offering a rare intimate glimpse into the life of a Heian-era noblewoman.
What edition is this?
This is a Penguin Classics edition published in 1975, with 153 pages, featuring a clear, accessible translation that preserves the work's subtle beauty.