I suppose you can consider this a Valentine’s day post given the timing, but this is mainly aimed at those who do not have a valentine on this oh so romantic holiday of sorts(for once I do). Also I think we don’t drink enough sherry. So, if you’re of the mood pick up a bottle of Sherry and crack that baby open you are in for a treat with this one. Memoirs of a Geisha is one of my favorite books of all time, and having read it twice (and planning on reading it a third time if my backlog of books ever clears up) I can say without a doubt that it loses none of its stylish grace and charm.

Chiyo is a young girl born in a fishing village with her father, mother, and older sister Satsu. Not too soon into the story our protagonist meets with tragedy and loss that no one should have to endure(trying not to spoil anything) and is “relocated” to an Okiya (Geisha house) in Kyoto. In her time at the Okiya Chiyo is gains the name Sayuri , makes friends, and enemies (Hatsumomo…..remember the name…forever…) all in the pursuit of her hearts desires. I bet a few of you have seen the movie adaptation and I have to say that it’s not at all bad, but like everyone says, it just doesn’t do justice to the original work.

Since it’s all told from first person perspective you really get to place yourself in Sayuri’s position. Every move, gesture, and thought is carefully calculated in her head and presented in elegant and flowery poetic fashion that will leave you narrating your life as blossoms flutter in the breeze and you contemplate the fleeting beauty of reality. It also gives an interesting and compelling depiction of Japanese culture through the eyes of a woman in Japan before and after WWII( even if you aren’t into that sort of thing, you will be). I’ve devoured this novel twice over and everyone I recommended it too did the same.

Song of the Drink: Joe Hisaishi- Merry Go round of Life (Howl’s Moving Castle

I believe this song to be appropriate. And as always, sit back, take a sip and enjoy.