AESTHETIC PERCEPTION OF MIYABI (ELEGANCE) IN Y. KAWABATA'S NOVELS

Abstract

Along with mono no aware, miyabi is an aesthetic sentiment that dominates the Heian period. Miyabi describes the elegant attitude and behavior between man and man, as well as between man and nature. Originating from Shinto, miyabi has subsequently become a significant concept of Japanese aesthetics. Miyabi percolated through Japanese literature over eras and was recorded in the compositions of Y. Kawataba – a writer who dedicated his life and literary career to preserving and promoting the traditional cultural values of Japan amidst the invasion of European and American civilization. In Y. Kawabata's works, miyabi was expressed through the passion of being able to care for, cherish and contemplate nature at its utmost richness; of finding in nature the joy and energy that healed the wounds of the soul; of appreciating objects-symbols for traditional culture; of love, generosity and tolerance towards people.