Passionate about Japanese culture, we like to talk about Japanese arts such as the cultivation of bonsai, but not only that! Japanese literature is also one of our passions! Today we wanted to talk to you about The Stone and the Sword by Eiji Yoshikawa.
A real favorite
A read that is as exciting as it is gratifying. There is everything in this novel. One man's journey towards his dream. The journey of a country at war which discovers peace and idleness. The contemplative introductory journey following the roads of Japan. Finally, a reader's journey to thoughtful learning.
What I took to be simply a cloak-and-dagger novel ultimately transformed into a true collection of thoughts: a spiritual guide not far from becoming a Bible in my eyes. The lessons learned harshly by Musashi resonated within me, letting me come out of this novel transfixed by the desire to find my way and move ever further towards my dreams.
Between tradition and modernity, Eiji Yoshikawa tackles the true meaning of the life of a man guided by honor and the desire to become a true human. The author shows us the way and warns us of the dark dangers that will obscure our destinies. Indeed, through colorful characters the author denounces the vices of his time, but also of ours: idleness, carnal and financial desires, flattery.
Through the path of a samurai, Eiji Yoshikawa reminds us that happiness is a fight that must be fully built, step by step, brick by brick. Rigor and the desire to learn and what keeps us from our demons and allows us to achieve our full potential.
Because after all “Life is a jewel that should be cherished. »
We recommend this reading to all lovers of Japan, but not only that, this book is truly a literary favorite!
