Chapter 8: Hana no En

Chapter 8: Hana no En
Under the Cherry Blossoms
As mentioned earlier in blogs (chapter 7 blog) Sakura Viewing is the most popular event, beating out the Momiji Viewing.
Facts:
- Cherry blossoms represent the coming of spring (counter part Momiji represents autumn).
- Everything about the sakura is appreciated, from the moment it blooms to the moment the petals start to fall.
- Sakura blooms for a short period of time (7-10 days).
- “Hanami” Cherry blossom viewing parties, became popular in the Heian Period.
- The life and beauty of the Sakura is very short and relates to the “wabi sabi” concept of impermanence. Beauty for a moment.


In relation to Genji:

1. Genji takes a new lover in chapter 8. Cherry blossoms are to be looked at and the only way to acquire the best bloom is by breaking off a branch and taking it. The mysterious woman that Genji takes while he is drunk is Oborozukiyo. He takes her without her consent.
2. Oborozukiyo was originally intended for the Heir Apparent (Suzaku). The beauty of Oborozukiyo is gone since Genji deflowered her. However, this is a western point-of-view of chastity meaning beauty and innocence but not necessarily in this time and culture. Her beauty keeps on growing like the cherry blossoms’ short life.
3. Genji and Oborozukiyo's encounter was brief much like the life of a cherry blossom.

Image of Genji and Oborozukiyo. (http://www.pref.kyoto.jp/inpaku/story/08hananoen_e/08hananoen_e.htm)