Pathway to Japanese Literature
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GooseAuthor: Koda Rohan
| Original Title | 鵞鳥 |
|---|---|
| Author | 幸田 露伴 |
| Genre | Modern Short Fiction |
| Author Type | Male Author |
| Summary | In a humble workshop where artistry and integrity intertwine, a seasoned craftsman faces an unprecedented challenge: demonstrating his metal-casting craft before an emperor. Tormented by premonitions of failure, he withdraws into brooding silence, unsettling his devoted wife, whose quiet resilience has long anchored their shared struggles. As tensions mount, a seasoned colleague suggests a deceptive shortcut—a timeworn trick to ensure flawless results. Yet the artisan’s pride in his unpredictable medium—the capricious "Art of Fire"—clashes with the temptation of guaranteed success. His dilemma unfolds against a backdrop of marital loyalty and the weight of imperial expectation, where a single misstep could shatter reputation or honor. When the pivotal moment arrives, raw vulnerability collides with unyielding principle, revealing profound truths about creation’s mysteries and the price of authenticity. A poignant exploration of craftsmanship and conscience emerges, where imperfection becomes its own testament to devotion. |
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