Nihon ga dai suki desu*
(*I love Japan!)
About four and a half years ago I started learning Japanese. I still can’t really tell you why, except that I have always been fascinated by Japan, and Japanese things. It’s not something you can easily explain to someone who doesn’t have the same obsession. I once asked my classmates why they started learning Japanese, and not one of them could give me a good answer, apart from the ones who were actually married to someone Japanese (and even then that’s often the end result of being fascinated by the country, and going off to spend time there, and then meeting someone…and so on and so on.) We all share an indefinable love for another country.
Other people have the same thing with Italy. Or France. It’s not so weird really. The only weird part is going to a language class for almost half a decade.
I am almost done with it though. I haven’t had a Thursday evening for myself for nearly five years, and although I love my teacher (she’s so fantastic), I’m feeling that my life interests have changed and I’m ready for the next thing.
But it’s still hard to say goodbye, because I still like being with everyone, and there’s another part of me that wants to finish the course with everyone. It’s a difficult decision, and I’m not entirely sure what to do about it. There are only two terms left after all.
And then these Japanese inspired fabrics popped through my door today, reminding me that the world of sewing is so alive in Japan. What to do, what to do…
I completely understand what you mean! I originally came to live here (in Japan) for a year, stayed for three and then went back to Australia. I just couldn’t get Japan out of my blood, something that the only people who could understand were people who were also obsessed with the country. I’m now back here again, probably once more for three years. I just can’t get enough of the papers and fabrics and will be sad when I go back to Australia and can no longer wander around the antique markets and paper shops.
Congratulations on your wedding! I’ve just discovered your blog today.
From: melanie on 12 December 2007, 06:26 #I’ve just discovered your blog today (via u-handbag blog). i live in australia, formerly of nyc. i share your admiration for Japan, their arts and crafts, especially the textiles. I have been acquiring various pieces of textiles over the last 7 years. i sew them into bags and scarves. I will start to read your blog. i enjoyed it today. thanks.
From: lou on 13 December 2007, 06:44 #
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Am in awe Japanese! That must mean you have a better understanding of their fabulous craft books, I did once try taking a book into Liberty as the ladies there are always so lovely and they have a member of staff that is Japanese. Sadly it was one of her days off!
From: two hippos on 28 November 2007, 23:08 #