We Orientals find beauty not only in the thing itself but in the pattern of the shadows, the light and darkness which that thing provides.
This quote highlights the unique perspective of Eastern cultures, which often find beauty in the subtle nuances of light and shadow. It suggests that the beauty of a thing is not just in its physical form, but also in the way it interacts with its surroundings. This perspective is reflected in the art, literature, and architecture of Eastern cultures, which often emphasize the beauty of impermanence and the fleeting nature of life.
The quote is a reflection of the Eastern philosophical concept of yin and yang, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of opposites. It suggests that beauty is not just a matter of physical appearance, but also of the subtle energies and patterns that underlie reality. This perspective encourages us to look beyond the surface level of things and to appreciate the beauty that can be found in the most unexpected places.
The quote is from a 1933 essay by Japanese author Junichiro Tanizaki, who was a prominent figure in the Japanese literary and intellectual scene. At the time, Japan was undergoing rapid modernization and Westernization, and Tanizaki's essay was a reflection of the cultural tensions and contradictions that this process created. The quote is a response to the Western emphasis on rationalism and the scientific method, and it represents an attempt to reclaim the unique cultural heritage of Japan.
Junichiro Tanizaki was a Japanese author, playwright, and essayist who was born in 1886 and died in 1965. He was a prominent figure in the Japanese literary scene, and his work was heavily influenced by traditional Japanese culture and aesthetics. Tanizaki's writing often explored the tensions between traditional Japanese values and modern Western influences, and his essays and stories are known for their lyrical prose and nuanced exploration of human experience.
The quote can be applied to various aspects of life, such as art, architecture, and design. It encourages us to look beyond the surface level of things and to appreciate the beauty that can be found in the most unexpected places. This perspective can also be applied to our daily lives, encouraging us to appreciate the beauty in the mundane and the ordinary.