Paper Balloon and Other Plays and Essays

A husband and wife face the emptiness of a Sunday afternoon, imagining an excursion before returning to the friction of everyday marriage. In Paper Balloon, an unexpected child’s toy changes the rhythm of their conversation. Cherry Trees in Leaf follows a mother and daughter discussing a proposed match, as caution, longing, jealousy, and uncertainty pass between their words and silences.

Ten essays surrounding the plays reveal Kishida Kunio’s sharp interest in literature and theatrical art. He challenges moralizing critics, defends the dignity of artistic pleasure, and asks why an artistic stage should so often look stern. Reviews of Shaw and reflections on Courteline connect these arguments with actors, translated dialogue, comedy, and the possibilities of performance.

Other pieces turn to prizes, money, copyright, clothing, food, and housing. Together they show a playwright attentive to artistic independence and the practical discomforts of living. Complete translations preserve all twelve supplied works, with concise notes on names, historical terms, uncertain readings, and textual details.