Tricksters in the Twilight: Fox and Tanuki Tales from Japan

Tricksters in the Twilight delves into the captivating world of Japanese folklore, where tales of shape-shifting beings blur the lines between reality and legend. This collection showcases stories of two prominent tricksters: the cunning fox (kitsune) and the playful tanuki (raccoon dog), both embodying themes of transformation, trickery, and spiritual transcendence.

The fox, revered for its intelligence and mystical abilities, shares a sacred connection with the Shinto deity Inari, acting as guardians of fertility and rice crops. From benevolent guides to mischievous tricksters, foxes explore the duality of good and evil through their shape-shifting prowess. The tanuki, on the other hand, often enchants with its jovial demeanor, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. With their playful shape-shifting antics and whimsical pranks, tanuki impart lessons of humility and generosity, often through clever deceit in their interactions with humans. //

Many of the stories within this collection find their roots in Japan's ancient indigenous belief system, Shinto, celebrated for its deep reverence for nature spirits and animistic practices. These traditions have heavily influenced notable works such as the 9th-century compilation Nihon Ryouiki by the Buddhist monk Kyokai. By skillfully melding Shinto beliefs with Buddhist teachings, Kyokai created a lasting legacy, as exemplified by his tale Fox Consort: A Union Transcending Worlds, showcased in Chapter 1. This narrative explores themes of metamorphosis, desire, and the boundary of reality and myth. It offers a glimpse into Japanese folklore and invites readers to venture into a world where the mundane intersects with the extraordinary. //

Chapters 2 to 5 of Tricksters in the Twilight feature fox and tanuki tales from four distinguished Japanese authors at the cusp of the 20th century: Kenji Miyazawa, Nankichi Niimi, Kotaro Tanaka, and Kohei Tsuchida. Miyazawa introduces readers to his signature mix of fantastical storytelling, deep philosophy, and appreciation for nature. Niimi's tales delve into universal themes of heartfelt connections amidst sorrow and the intrinsic beauty of life, drawing from his personal experiences and surroundings. Tanaka, celebrated for his romantic narratives, ghostly tales, and travelogues, brings stories from both Japanese and Chinese traditions into the collection, while Tsuchida captivates with his artful portrayal of a young fox, offering a rich and intriguing glimpse into its mystical world. //

In preparing this collection, both translators, Finlay Cameron and John McLean, have strived to remain faithful to the original authors, preserving the essence and subtleties of culturally specific words, phrases, and concepts. Sub-notes are used when necessary to clarify words or phrases that might not directly translate into English without losing their cultural significance. In the translation process, the Hepburn Romanization system was utilized to accurately represent Japanese words and maintain the authenticity of the original text. //

Enjoy the journey!