The Pillow Book

Written by Sei Sh_nagon, a court lady to Empress Consort... Read More

Written by Sei Sh_nagon, a court lady to Empress Consort Teishi, during the 10^th century. Unable to freely voice her opinion due to her lower position in court it is believed Sh_nagon wrote The Pillow Book to privately record her thoughts. A collection of essays, letters, poems, and observations of life in the court and Sh_nagonÕs musings about her own life the style of The Pillow Book created an entirely new genre Zuihitsu (assorted writings).

A witty and clever collection, it is regarded as an important historical document as it gives the reader a glimpse into Japanese court life in the Heian Period.