18/07/2024
A Woman of Pleasure 👘🧡 by Kiyoko Murata and translated into English by Juliet Winters Carpenter.
To begin with, you’re thrust into the very brutal and real world of s*x work in late Edo/ early Meiji era Japan. Murata spares no details here, so be warned!
I was aware of courtesans from other books I have read, but many of them focus on adults who are a few years into their position. Seeing things through the eyes of an adult, examining the adult world.
I’ve not read anything which quite encapsulates the naïvety of our young protagonist, Aoi Ichi. She is a young girl, unaware of the desires of men. Murata describes Ichi’s experience with language that is reflective of a 15 year olds experience. Seeing things through her innocent eyes, trying to make sense of the world around her.
Towards the end I enjoyed how the courtesans realised they could take control of their destinies. Without spoiling much, it was a satisfying resolution to their stories.
I absolutely flew through this book, I found it interesting to say the least. Some parts were very difficult, especially around subjects such as misogyny and abuse. But overall it was insightful and enjoyable to read.
Throughly recommended 🙂
