They discuss ways to bring classic houses into modern age while retaining traditional charm, the joys of mixing new technologies and ancient art, and examples of how Alex’s 40+ projects since 1970s have come together as “positive public works“.
As well, they check out a city-block-sized Akiya and quick peeks at two other renovated guest houses, a kura turned restaurant, and another reservation-only country restaurant run by former Chiiori foundation staff.
4 pack of old, new, new to me / Japan, America, Jazz
4 books by post from Infinity Book’s ∞, Tokyo. Alex Kerr, author of two of these, it’s going to be an event later this month… Yes, I’m planning on leaving the house in subsequent months. Started into Dogs and Demons and it’s really exposing colossal buzz kill of modern Japan… {I have to be careful about what I process because I’ve chosen to live here forever, and certainly know that everywhere has its faults but have to take honesty and reality in small doses}.
The F Scott Fitzgerald is a beauty little edition as well. And so many of my friends freaking love (&/or in one case are pals with) Neil Gaiman so getting on board. Thanks Kat C for encouragement.
“Spy book” – I am already suspicious (is it strange to get to know somewhat embarrassed to be sharing this?) and Japan from the long timer
2 more books arrived, not my usual type maybe but, i enjoy Robert Whiting’s nostalgic-without-being-sentimental gazes at Japan and want to support his diligence + i like “spy craft” but without cheese and violence so curious if former agent’s nom de plume is logistically accurate and, if it’s about “running as in managing agents in the field” rather than an “agent running rogue in the field” as the former is much more interesting to me. (Am i a snob to say I’m *almost embarrassed* to show this?) No answer required.
Jack, Neal, Allen – all in one mighty tome
Also in the bedside stack: Reading first editions in bed. After all, books are for reading as well as collecting, sharing (and sometimes accidentally using it as a place to set coffee #NotRecommended). Nice to see a book by Jack Kerouac about Neal Cassady (Cody Pomeroy) with forward by Allen Ginsberg – quite a trifecta.
