“Suma-genji” was like a dream seen during a spring night

The season has completely changed to spring.

The other day, I saw a Noh play called “Suma-genji”.

Suma-genji is based on some classical literature that is characteristic of Japan, and it is known as ”The Tale of Genji”.

I felt that Suma-genji symbolized the spring moon.

The spring mist is characteristic of Japan.

Because of that, the moon in springtime looks mystical and flamboyant. It puts me in a dream-ike state. 

In other words, Suma-genji was like a dream seen during a spring night.

It was a dream of mystical moonlight and beautiful cherry blossoms.

The summary of Suma-genji is simple.

Hikarugenji has a leading role in The Tale of Genji.

He has a high social rank, and he is influential and good-looking.

Many women become obsessed with him.

In Suma-genji, Hikarugenji appears as a god of heaven. 

His character’s background is such that he became a god after he died.

On a spring day, he descends to earth with nostalgia from his old days.

He performs a splendid dance in a reminiscent mood.

In addition, there are some famous scenes from The Tale of Genji quoted in Noh chanting.

The beautiful Noh dancing and chanting in Suma-genji expresses the world of The Tale of Genji very well. 

It is said that The Tale of Genji is esoteric literature.

Actually, every Japanese person has heard of The Tale of Genji, but many of them have never read it.

If you are interested in The Tale of Genji, you should see some Noh plays relating to it. Suma-genji is one of them.

These Noh plays help you to become immersed in a story.

Noh plays bring us closer to classical Japanese literature.