As a person from the Midwest I could really appreciate the emphasis on seasons in the Japanese art and poetry. Personally it gave me great solace to engage in the material. It brought back to mind my own emphasis which I place upon place and time as it relates to seasonal pastimes.
Our presenter did an outstanding job of presenting the material as "Japanesque" however, and I don't disregard his implications, it seems practical that any people would engage in seasonal activities based upon the availability of resources and the accessibility to them. It remains that his presentation was informative, accurate and enjoyable. During the presentation I wondered who actually painted the pictures and how much of it was related to social class. In other words, how accessible were the activities and opportunities to travel dependent upon the financial capability of the people. Could it be that the pictures were mostly the art and interpretations of the wealthy? I will forever view Japanese art and poetry from a renewed perspective thanks to his insight.
edited by tkuanda on 5/18/2015
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