My Friend Hitler and Other Plays of Yukio Mishima

Though best known for his novels, Yukio Mishima published more than sixty plays, almost all of which were produced during his lifetime. Among them are kabuki plays and others inspired by No dramas--two types used in classical Japanese theater. Of play-writing Mishima once observed, "I started writing dramas just as water flows toward a lower place. In me, the topography of dramas seems to be situated far below that of novels. It seems to be in a place which is more instinctive, closer to child's play." For English readers, these plays have been one of Japan's best-kept secrets--until now.In this anthology, Hiroaki Sato translates the brilliance and richness of Yukio Mishima's writing into the English language. He has selected five major plays and three essays on dramaturgy, providing informative introductions to guide the reader. Sato's translations offer a broad historical and personal context in which those new to Mishima's work can place his writing. For those more familiar with Mishima, these translations offer another medium in which one can access his ingenious work. Acclaimed Japanese novelist Yukio Mishima (1925­-1970) was also a prolific playwright, penning more than sixty plays, nearly all of which were produced in his lifetime. Hiroaki Sato is the first to translate these plays into English. For this collection he has selected five major plays and three essays Mishima wrote about drama. The title play is a satire that follows the breakdown of friendship between Adolf Hitler and two Nazi officials who were ultimately assassinated under orders from Hitler. The Rokumeikan (the Deer Cry Pavilion), from which this play gets its title, is a British-designed Renaissance-style social center built by the Japanese government in 1883 for the explicit purpose of encouraging social intercourse between foreign dignitaries and members of the Japanese aristocracy. The Rokumeikan -- Backstage Essays -- The Decline And Fall Of The Suzaku -- My Friend Hitler -- The Terrace Of The Leper King -- The Flower Of Evil: Kabuki -- A Wonder Tale: The Moonbow. Translated By Hiroaki Sato. Includes Bibliographical References (p. [309]-316).