Embracing the Beauty of Shadows: A Reflection on Jun'ichirō Tanizaki's In Praise of Shadows

Reading Recap: Book Summaries

27-08-2024 • 12 mins

How does Tanizaki view the impact of modern technology on traditional Japanese aesthetics?


Tanizaki views the impact of modern technology on traditional Japanese aesthetics as problematic and detrimental. He believes that modern technology, with its emphasis on efficiency and practicality, has disrupted the delicate balance and harmony that once characterized traditional Japanese aesthetics. Tanizaki argues that modern technology has brought about a shift towards a more Westernized and utilitarian aesthetic, which he sees as inferior to the more nuanced and subtle beauty of traditional Japanese art and architecture. He is concerned that the erosion of traditional Japanese aesthetics in the face of modern technology will lead to the loss of a valuable cultural heritage and identity.

What does Tanizaki say about the relationship between shadow and mood in a Japanese home?


In his essay "In Praise of Shadows," Tanizaki discusses the importance of shadows in creating mood and atmosphere in a traditional Japanese home. He argues that shadows contribute to the beauty and serenity of a space, emphasizing the importance of subtlety and softness in creating an aesthetic experience. Tanizaki believes that shadows add depth and mystery to a room, creating a sense of calm and tranquility that is essential for contemplation and reflection. He contrasts this with the harshness of bright, Western-style lighting, which he feels can be too harsh and revealing, lacking the nuance and subtlety that shadows provide. Overall, Tanizaki sees shadows as an integral part of Japanese aesthetics, enhancing the beauty and mood of a space in a way that is uniquely Japanese.

How does Tanizaki use descriptions of architectural features to illustrate his ideas about light and shadow?


Tanizaki uses descriptions of architectural features to illustrate his ideas about light and shadow by emphasizing how they interact with each other in a given space. For example, he often discusses the way a traditional Japanese room is designed to capture and enhance natural light, creating a sense of warmth and intimacy. He contrasts this with Western-style architecture, which tends to focus on artificial lighting and harsh shadows.

Tanizaki also explores the way different materials and textures affect the way light is reflected and absorbed in a space. For instance, he describes how dark, lacquered surfaces can create deep shadows that add a sense of mystery and depth to a room, while light-colored, porous materials can soften and diffuse light, creating a more gentle and serene atmosphere.

Overall, Tanizaki uses descriptions of architectural features to show how light and shadow can be used to evoke different emotional responses and enhance the beauty of a space. By paying careful attention to these details, he demonstrates how the interplay of light and shadow is essential to creating a harmonious and visually appealing environment.


Du möchtest deinen Podcast auch kostenlos hosten und damit Geld verdienen?
Dann schaue auf www.kostenlos-hosten.de und informiere dich.
Dort erhältst du alle Informationen zu unseren kostenlosen Podcast-Hosting-Angeboten. kostenlos-hosten.de ist ein Produkt der Podcastbude.
Gern unterstützen wir dich bei deiner Podcast-Produktion.


You Might Like

Spooked
Spooked
Snap Judgment
99% Invisible
99% Invisible
Roman Mars
Myths and Legends
Myths and Legends
Jason Weiser, Carissa Weiser, Nextpod
You Beauty
You Beauty
Mamamia Podcasts
The Moth
The Moth
The Moth
Sentimental Garbage
Sentimental Garbage
Justice for Dumb Women
Audiobooks 🎧
Audiobooks 🎧
Best Audiobooks by The Book Guide®
1001 Songs That Make You Want To Die
1001 Songs That Make You Want To Die
The 1001 Podcast Network
Selected Shorts
Selected Shorts
Symphony Space
Fantasy Fangirls
Fantasy Fangirls
Fantasy Fangirls
Nothing To Wear
Nothing To Wear
Mamamia Podcasts