#6641

Mentioned in 6 episodes

In Praise of Shadows

Book • 1933

Jun'ichirō Tanizaki

In 'In Praise of Shadows', Jun'ichirō Tanizaki delves into the essence of Japanese aesthetics, highlighting the beauty of shadows and the subtlety of traditional Japanese culture.

The essay contrasts the Western pursuit of light and clarity with the Eastern appreciation of darkness and nuance, discussing topics from architecture to food and theater.

Mentioned by

Joshua Michael Schrei

Mentioned in 6 episodes

Recommended by

Tony Fadell

as a short book offering insights into pre-industrial and post-industrial life in Japan, focusing on details often overlooked.

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Mentioned by

Joshua Michael Schrei

in relation to how electric light has made it harder for people to perceive animate beings that dwell in shadows.

Snail Juice & Bear Fat & Werewolf Moons (w/ Leah Song of Rising Appalachia)

Mentioned by

Wessie du Toit

when discussing Japanese aesthetics and vulgarity in writing.

The Death of Mass Literacy

Mentioned by

Jason Fried

as his favorite book, appreciating its exploration of light, shadow, texture, and space.

20VC: Basecamp CEO Jason Fried on His Relationship To Risk, Money, Vulnerability and Self-Doubt, Fantasising About Being Fired, How To Optimise Decision-Making and Minimising Regret

J.F. Martell

references Tanizaki's essay, discussing the idea of positive darkness.

AEWCH 306: WHAT IS HORROR? with PHIL FORD & J.F. MARTEL of WEIRD STUDIES

Mentioned by

Tim Ferriss

, contains gems though boring, discusses Japanese architecture and aesthetics, and use of shadow and darkness.

#110: The Tattooed Heretic of Wine and Whiskey, Richard Betts

Mentioned by

John Barr

in regards to the structure of his second book about Japan.

John Barr, "1960s University Buildings: The Golden Age of British Modern Architecture" (Lund Humphries, 2025)

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