Books and Habits, from the Lectures of Lafcadio Hearn

Name: Books and Habits, from the Lectures of Lafcadio Hearn
Author: Lafcadio Hearn

A collection of lectures and essays offering close readings and cultural explanations of Western literature for non-Western listeners. The pieces examine themes such as love and the ideal woman in English poetry, the Bible’s role in English letters, Norse and Greek fragments, the shortest lyrical forms, and the impact of Finnish and foreign verse on English poetry. Other chapters treat songs and poems about Japan, medieval romance, and even poems about insects, combining translation, commentary, and comparative observation. The overall aim is to reinterpret familiar literary habits as potentially exotic, encouraging readers to see how meanings shift across languages and cultural perspectives.

By Lafcadio Hearn

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About the Author

Lafcadio Hearn

Lafcadio Hearn (1850-1904) was a writer and journalist known for his profound exploration of Japanese culture and folklore. Born in Greece and raised in Ireland, he later moved to the United States before settling in Japan, where he became a naturalized citizen. Hearn's works often reflect his fascination with the spiritual and mystical aspects of Japanese life. His notable books include "Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan," which offers insights into the country's traditions and customs, and "In Ghostly Japan," a collection of essays on Japanese ghost stories and supernatural themes. Hearn's unique perspective has contributed significantly to the understanding of Japan in the West.