In Praise Of Shadows

The essay itself is timeless, but this expanded edition adds context that makes Tanizaki’s musings land even harder. The physical book feels substantial in hand, with a cover that suits the quiet, shadowy themes inside. I’ve already reread the passage on lacquerware twice.

I wasn't expecting such a physically beautiful book — the paper feels soft and heavy, which makes the dim, meditative chapters about shadows and worn surfaces feel almost like a ritual to read. The expanded edition's layout gives Tanizaki's words room to breathe, and I've already reread the passage

The expanded edition's extra content deepens the original essay nicely, and the physical book itself feels weighty and well-made. I found myself slowing down to reread passages about worn surfaces and dim light, it's the kind of writing that changes how you notice your own home.