Gay Tales of the Samurai

San Francisco: Alamo Square Press. 1995. First Edition Thus. Softcover. [just minor wear to book, gift inscription on inside of front cover]. Trade PB "Queer was not even a word over three centuries ago in feudal Japan, but a glorious tradition flourished of male-male love between Samurai warriors and their faithful companions. The renowned author Ihara Saikaku (1642-1693) recorded many tales of Japanese life in this period. This book offers translations of some of his finest. The tales are said to be based on real life, carefully preserving actual events from history. They offer a view of the Samurai world not easily found today. These are tales of valor, fidelity and ardor, reflecting the best and worst of the human condition." . Near Fine.