The Origins of Cuteness - Joshua Dale | Maiden Mother Matriarch 113

The Pillow Book, or 'Makura no Sōshi', is a personal and informal journal written by Sei Shōnagon during the 990s and early 1000s. It contains a wide range of entries including lists, nature descriptions, diary entries, character sketches, and anecdotes. The book provides a detailed and vivid picture of life in the Heian court, showcasing Shōnagon's wit, poetic skill, and keen observation of detail. It is considered a significant historical document and a landmark in Japanese literature, influencing the genre of 'zuihitsu' or 'assorted writings'. The text is written primarily in Japanese hiragana and offers insights into the daily life, ceremonies, and social dynamics of the Heian period.