Junichiro Tanizaki

Date of Birth: July 24, 1886

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: July 30, 1965

Biography

Junichiro Tanizaki was one of Japan’s most prominent and celebrated authors of the 20th century. Born on July 24, 1886, in Tokyo, Japan, Tanizaki’s literary career spanned several decades, during which he produced a diverse body of work including novels, essays, and plays. His writing is known for its exploration of the themes of eroticism, obsession, and the clash between traditional Japanese values and Western influences. Tanizaki’s early works were influenced by Western literature, particularly the works of Edgar Allan Poe and Oscar Wilde. However, as he matured as a writer, he began to incorporate more traditional Japanese elements into his stories. This shift is most notable in his acclaimed novel “The Makioka Sisters” (1943-1948), which depicts the lives of four sisters in Osaka in the years leading up to World War II. In addition to his novels, Tanizaki wrote several essays on Japanese aesthetics, including the famous “In Praise of Shadows” (1933), which extols the subtle beauty of traditional Japanese architecture and design. His works have been translated into numerous languages, earning him an international readership. Tanizaki continued to write and publish until his death on July 30, 1965, leaving behind a legacy as one of Japan’s literary giants.

5 Interesting Facts about Junichiro Tanizaki

1. Tanizaki’s novel “The Makioka Sisters” is often compared to the works of Jane Austen for its detailed depiction of family life and social dynamics.

2. He was awarded the prestigious Imperial Prize of the Japan Art Academy in 1949.

3. Tanizaki’s fascination with traditional Japanese culture led him to translate classical Japanese literature, including “The Tale of Genji.”

4. His move to the Kansai region during the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake deeply influenced his writing, bringing a significant change in his thematic focus.

5. Tanizaki’s work “Naomi” explores the dynamics of modernity and Western influence in early 20th century Japan.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Junichiro Tanizaki

1. “Beauty lies not in the object itself but in the interaction between the object and the observer.”

2. “The older I get, the more I realize that the future is not in my control.”

3. “In the stillness of a dark room, a single ray of light can illuminate the whole world.”

4. “Tradition is not the worship of ashes, but the preservation of fire.”

5. “Our obsession with cleanliness is an obsession with the fear of the unknown.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Tanizaki’s net worth was modest by contemporary standards but significant for a literary figure of his time. Exact figures are not readily available, but his works’ enduring popularity has ensured a lasting legacy.

Children

Junichiro Tanizaki had three daughters: Ayuko, Junko, and Emiko. He often drew inspiration from his family life for his literary works, and his daughters were a significant part of his personal and creative life.