The Weight of Names in Storytelling

This chapter examines the historical context of a noble woman poet from the Nara period and her lasting impact on Japanese literature, despite her anonymity. It highlights the complexities of naming characters in storytelling, particularly the emotional significance of real versus fictional names, while interweaving personal anecdotes and reflections. The discussion transitions to the exploration of memoirs like the 'Sarashina Diary,' illustrating how literature captures dreams, nostalgia, and personal growth.