Episode 552 - The Road Less Traveled

Dive into the fascinating world of popular literature from Japan's Edo period, exploring how it reflects societal trends. Discover the life of Jipensha Ikku, a samurai-turned-author whose humor and satire offered a critique of his time. Unpack the comedic journey of Yajirobe and Kitahachi in 'Tokaido-chu Hizakurige', showcasing the art of storytelling that intertwined laughter and social commentary. The discussion also highlights the ephemeral nature of life through evocative poetry, connecting past and present human experiences.