The Life and Zen Haiku Poetry of Santoka Taneda

...a rare in-depth view into the life and work of Santoka...this book is a tapestry of biographical notes, journal entries, translator's notes, and poetry. --Lion's Roar magazine [Santoka's] unique blend of genius and geniality is key to making this book such a joy to read...His ceaseless struggle to overcome his weaknesses and become a better poet and person is what makes this book both touchingly human and inspirational. --The Japan Times Gives a whole new, Zen-inspired meaning to the word 'eccentric.' --Jay Rubin, editor and translator, The Penguin Book of Japanese Short Stories I feel guilty, finding so much joy in another man's sadness... --Red Pine, author of Finding Them Gone, translator of The Heart Sutra In this extraordinary book, William Scott Wilson brings his vast experience as a renowned translator of Japanese literature and religious thought...a must read for all those interested in how traditional Japanese culture endures in modern times. --Steven Heine, author of Readings of Dogen's Treasury of the True Dharma Eye Oyama's book is entirely sympathetic to Santoka without being an apology or an exercise in hagiography written for someone he knew well and was obviously close to. Its style is informal, admirably captured by William Scott Wilson's splendid translation. Oyama's sympathy is shot through with a gentle sense of humor and the simple brush-and-ink illustrations by Gary Miller Haskins beautifully capture the lighter side of Santoka. --Asian Review of Books William Scott Wilson has unearthed yet another neglected Japanese treasure. Both biography and poems are elegant, inspirational, and brimming with life. Wilson has outdone himself. --Barry Lancet, award-winning author of Japantown and The Spy Across the Table Wilson's eloquent introduction and afterword and helpful footnotes provide valuable context, and Gary Miller Haskins's ink-brush drawings in the whimsical haiga style lighten the account of Santoka's squalid existence, more Bukowski than Basho. One can hardly imagine a more accessible or authentic introduction to a remarkable seeker whose life and art were indistinguishable, nor a more essential addition to any collection of world literature. -- Library Journal