The Ink Dark Moon: Love Poems by Ono No Komachi and Izumi Shikibu, Women of the Ancient Court of Japan

by Jane Hirshfield and Mariko Aratani
The Ink Dark Moon: Love Poems by Ono No Komachi and Izumi Shikibu, Women of the Ancient Court of Japan cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Technical
  • ID: 1494
  • Added: 2025-10-07
  • Updated: 2025-10-07
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
Look What She Did · Jane Hirshfield · 2014-08-11
insightful 4.50

They highlight the timeless appeal of Ono no Komachi's work, emphasizing its contemporary resonance. The translation captures the essence of the original poems beautifully.

Jane Hirshfield, an award-winning poet and translator, shares her deep admiration for Ono no Komachi's poetry. She notes how the themes and emotions in these ancient poems feel remarkably modern, making them accessible and relatable to today's readers. Hirshfield praises the translation for preserving the delicate beauty and depth of the original Japanese verses, allowing contemporary audiences to connect with the ancient poets' experiences and emotions.

Quick quotes

    A woman whose work feels so contemporary.

    The translation captures the essence of the original poems beautifully.

    The themes and emotions in these ancient poems feel remarkably modern.

Ameblo.jp · 2014-08-11
affectionate 4.00

The reviewer expresses a deep love for the book, particularly appreciating the romantic and philosophical themes. The poetry is described as both beautiful and profound.

The reviewer on Ameblo.jp shares their love for this collection of love poems by Ono no Komachi and Izumi Shikibu. They highlight the romantic and philosophical themes that run through the poems, making them both beautiful and thought-provoking. The reviewer enjoys the private and intimate nature of the communications between lovers, which adds a layer of depth and authenticity to the collection.

Quick quotes

    I especially love the book The Ink Dark Moon: Love Poems by Ono no Komachi and Izumi Shikibu.

    The poems mostly consist of private communications with lovers -- romantic, mildly erotic, or philosophical.

    The original Japanese (romaji) adds an extra layer of appreciation for the language and its nuances.

Barnes & Noble · 1990-10-03
adoring 4.50

This collection is described as a favorite, with a profound influence on the reviewer's own writing. The poems are praised for their beauty and depth.

An anonymous reviewer from Barnes & Noble calls this book their all-time favorite collection of poetry. They mention that it has had a tremendous influence on their own writing, highlighting the profound impact these poems have had. The reviewer particularly appreciates the beautiful and deeply moving nature of the poems, which explore a range of emotions and themes that resonate deeply with readers.

Quick quotes

    This is my all time favorite book of poetry.

    It has had a tremendous influence on my own writing.

    Not only is it filled with beautiful poems, but it goes into the heart of human emotion.

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