Rediscovering the Joy of Learning Through a Japanese Literature Handbook

During my time in senior high school, I developed two techniques to cope with the tediousness of classes. One tactic involved gazing at an atlas and embarking on imaginary voyages, while the other included frequently flipping through “Kokugo Binran,” a comprehensive Japanese literature handbook. This book, filled with photographs of renowned authors and detailed literary timelines, became a trusty companion during class hours.

On one memorable occasion, I took a pencil and whimsically added flowing hair to the bald image of poet Masaoka Shiki. I also found myself captivated by a chart depicting the military and political structure of ancient China. Despite using the handbook minimally for academic purposes, it was always readily available at my side during Japanese lessons.

Recently, the revised edition of the handbook has seen remarkable success among adult readers. Its viral fame on social media led to it selling out, prompting a reprint that was distributed through an online lottery system; however, the odds of winning were quite steep. I managed to secure a copy for myself and have since been reminiscing and immersing myself in its content.

The handbook contains an intricate diagram illustrating relationships between characters in “Genji Monogatari,” along with a section discussing the overlap of war and literature. Additionally, it includes guides on effective presentation skills, reflecting modern educational needs. As I revisited the book after many years, I was taken aback by the wealth of knowledge packed into this single volume.

According to a representative from the publisher, the initial purchaser demographic skewed towards women, presumed to be enthusiasts of games and manga featuring literary figures. However, the appeal of the book now seems to encompass a broader audience across various age groups. My own desire to engage in learning has been reignited through this experience.

A noteworthy quote I stumbled upon in the margins reads, "Learn when young, and you will achieve great things in your prime. Learn in your prime, and your mind will not decline in old age." This sentiment underlines the importance of learning at any stage in life, reminding me that it is never too late to pursue knowledge and growth.