Title
Women of the Pleasure Quarters: The Secret History of the Geisha,New
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Ever since Westerners arrived in Japan, they have been intrigued by Japanese womanhood and, above all, by geisha. This fascination has spawned a wealth of extraordinary fictional creations, from Puccinis Madame Butterfly to Arthur Goldens Memoirs of a Geisha. But as denizens of a world defined by silence and mystery, real geisha are notoriously difficult to meet and even to find. As a result, their history has long been cloaked in secrecy.Lesley Downer, an awardwinning writer, Japanese scholar, and consummate storyteller, gained more access to this world than almost any other Westerner, and spent several months living in it. In Women of the Pleasure Quarters, she weaves together intimate portraits of modern geisha with the romantic legends and colorful historical tales that shape their fascinating past. Contrary to popular opinion, geisha are not prostitutes but, literally, 'arts people.' Accomplished singers, dancers, and musicians, they are, above all, masters of the art of conversation, soothing the worries and stroking the egos of wealthy businessmen who can afford their attentions. Looking into such traditions as mizuage, the ritual deflowering that was once a rite of passage for all geisha, and providing colorful descriptions of their dress, training, and homes, Downer transforms their reality into a captivating narrative, and reveals an enthralling world unlike any other.
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This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
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- Q: What is the main theme of 'Women of the Pleasure Quarters'? A: The book explores the secret history of geisha, delving into their traditions, societal roles, and the misconceptions surrounding them, highlighting their artistic skills rather than viewing them solely as entertainers.
- Q: Who is the author of 'Women of the Pleasure Quarters'? A: The author is Lesley Downer, an award-winning writer and Japanese scholar known for her insights into Japanese culture and history.
- Q: What type of book is 'Women of the Pleasure Quarters'? A: It is a non-fiction book that combines historical narrative with personal anecdotes, offering an intimate look at the lives of modern geisha and the history that shapes their world.
- Q: Is 'Women of the Pleasure Quarters' suitable for readers unfamiliar with Japanese culture? A: Yes, the book is written in an engaging style that provides context and background, making it accessible even for those without prior knowledge of Japanese culture.
- Q: What can readers expect in terms of content length and structure? A: The book has 304 pages, featuring a mix of narrative storytelling, historical accounts, and cultural insights, structured to captivate readers interested in the subject.
- Q: What is the condition of the book being offered? A: The book is listed as 'New', ensuring that it is in pristine condition for readers.
- Q: When was 'Women of the Pleasure Quarters' published? A: The book was published on April 9, 2002.
- Q: What edition of the book is available? A: This listing is for the First Paperback Edition of 'Women of the Pleasure Quarters'.
- Q: What features does the book include? A: The book includes intimate portraits of geisha, discussions of their art forms, and descriptions of their traditional practices and attire.
- Q: Are there any notable historical figures mentioned in the book? A: Yes, the book references various historical legends and figures related to geisha, enhancing the narrative with rich cultural context.