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Cover of The sacred tree : $b Being the second part of 'The tale of Genji'

The sacred tree : $b Being the second part of 'The tale of Genji'

Written by Murasaki Shikibu

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Psychological fictionRomance fictionMan-woman relationshipsPrincesAristocracy (Social class)JapanHikaru Genji (Fictitious character)

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About this book

"The Sacred Tree: Being the Second Part of 'The Tale of Genji'" by Lady Murasaki is a classic novel written in the early 11th century. This work is a continuation of the renowned "The Tale of Genji," which chronicles the life and loves of Prince Genji, a nobleman in Heian-era Japan. The narrative delves into the intricate relationships, emotional struggles, and the societal norms of the time through its complex characters, with a particular focus on Genji's romantic entanglements. At the start of this second volume, the story revolves around Lady Rokujō, who is filled with despair as the imminent departure of her daughter looms. Struggling with her feelings for Genji after a long and painful estrangement, she contemplates the emotional turmoil that their relationship has caused her. Meanwhile, Genji, moved by the beauty of the autumn landscape, embarks on a journey to reconnect with Rokujō, reflecting on the passage of time and his lingering attachment. Their poignant meeting from behind the screen-of-state sparks renewed feelings, yet simultaneously highlights the challenges posed by their past and the societal expectations they must navigate.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The sacred tree : $b Being the second part of 'The tale of Genji', written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • advanced
  • melancholy
  • romantic
  • introspective

In "The Sacred Tree," the tenth chapter of Murasaki Shikibu's epic, 'The Tale of Genji,' the narrative deepens its exploration of Prince Genji's complex romantic life, focusing intensely on his relationship with Lady Rokujō. As Rokujō prepares for her daughter's departure to become a Vestal Virgin, she grapples with profound despair and the lingering pain of her past with Genji, whose neglect has fueled her intense jealousy and suffering. Genji, moved by the beauty of autumn and a sense of nostalgia, seeks to reconcile with Rokujō, leading to a poignant, emotionally charged reunion behind a screen. This encounter reignites their complicated feelings, yet it also underscores the insurmountable challenges posed by their history, societal expectations, and the karmic consequences of their love, setting the stage for future emotional and spiritual turmoil.

“"The world is a place of such transient beauty, and yet we cling to its fleeting joys and sorrows with such tenacity."”

Key themes

Mono no Aware (The Pathos of Things)
This theme, central to Japanese aesthetics, refers to the poignant awareness of the transience of life and the beauty of its fleeting nature. It is evoked through observations of changing seasons, the impermanence of human relationships, and the melancholy that accompanies beauty's inevitable decay.
Love, Loss, and Jealousy
At its heart, "The Sacred Tree" is a profound exploration of the multifaceted nature of love – its joys, its pains, and its destructive potential. The chapter delves into the agony of unrequited love, the bitterness of loss, and the consuming power of jealousy, particularly through the character of Lady Rokujō.
Karma and Retribution
The concept of karma, or the inevitable consequences of one's actions from past and present lives, is a powerful underlying force. Genji's numerous romantic entanglements and his often-careless treatment of women lead to emotional and spiritual repercussions, most notably seen in the suffering of Lady Rokujō and its subsequent manifestations.

Worth discussing

How does Murasaki Shikibu use the concept of 'mono no aware' to explore the themes of impermanence and beauty in "The Sacred Tree"?

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