ABSTRACT

LAFCADIO HEARN in Tokyo could be presented in many lights. It was the most productive period of his life in terms of literary output yet he did not significantly expand his vision. A publicly known figure, the centre of a growing and devoted family, he became increasingly isolated and introspective. A passionate supporter of Japan in her war with Russia, he longed to leave the country. Physically and, if his wife is to be believed, mentally in decline, he produced his most ambitious intellectual work. He shunned society, yet could be the best of company.