IN PRAISE OF SHADOWS

In Praise of Shadows laments the fading of traditional Japanese culture in the electric glare of Westernization. Tanizaki is at times funny (he celebrates outdoor toilets), aggravating (he meanders) and overwhelmingly lyrical (his descriptions of lacquerware in candlelight are feted). This remains relevant and important, making us re-evaluate ourselves. review by JOSIE BARNARD. Editor's note: Josie Barnard's is the author of Poker Face. (Kirkus UK)