An Inn among the Mountains and Other Writings

Two lovers follow a flooded mountain path toward a secluded inn, where fear gives way to shared relief and a night alive with fireflies. On another journey, an island’s beauty becomes the setting for jealousy, secret wishes, and a terrifying storm. In these nine writings, travel offers both escape and exposure: the landscape brings hidden feelings into view.

Tayama Katai also turns his eye toward the practice of literature. He questions the limits of observation, contrasts inward experience with invention, and follows Ozaki Kōyō’s development from dazzling prose toward a more personal art. A summer spent reading Buddhist scriptures leads him to consider solitude, attachment, and the life of an observer. Brief impressions of childhood and literary life complete the collection.

Katai (1872–1930), a central figure in Japanese naturalism, writes here with intimacy, impatience, humor, and philosophical curiosity. This complete collection presents a new English translation of the nine supplied works, with brief notes on allusions and textual peculiarities. AI-assisted translation, prepared and edited by Valentin Sarić.