Life of an Amorous Man

Japan`s first modern novel--an unforgettable exploration of love and desire! The Life of an Amorous Man is a groundbreaking work by Ihara Saikaku, Japan`s first popular novelist. This new unabridged English translation of Saikaku`s seminal work includes the 54 illustrations drawn by the author and published in the original Japanese edition. The story follows Yonosuke, a passionate man whose never-ending quest for pleasure leads him from the glitzy brothels of Edo (modern-day Tokyo) and the elegant boudoirs of Kyoto to moonlit trysts along quiet lanes in the Japanese countryside. Along the way he weaves a tapestry of fleeting affairs, forbidden romances, and broken hearts. Brimming with scandalous encounters, witty anecdotes, and poignant reflections, Yonosuke`s tale provides a candid glimpse into the hedonistic world of Edo-period Japan (1680-1770), where courtesans, gamblers, and pleasure-seekers mingle in a whirlwind of indulgence. The Life of an Amorous Man was a huge success in its day and remains a celebration of life and a fascinating glimpse of a vibrant, bygone era.