Ki no Tsurayuki Compiles Kokin Wakashū
What happened
In 905, Ki no Tsurayuki was commissioned by Emperor Daigo to compile the 'Kokin Wakashū,' the first imperial anthology of waka poetry. This collection aimed to preserve and promote the art of Japanese poetry, reflecting the cultural values and aesthetics of the Heian period. The 'Kokin Wakashū' not only established a literary standard but also influenced subsequent generations of poets, shaping the trajectory of Japanese literature.
Literary impact
Ki no Tsurayuki's compilation of the Kokin Wakashū in 905 established foundational forms and aesthetic principles of Japanese poetry. This influential work dominated poetic practice for centuries, shaping the courtly sensibility and inspiring countless poets to engage with its themes of nature and emotion.
Source: Wikipedia