Though written around 1000-1012 by Murasaki Shikibu, The Tale of Genzi continued exerting enormous influence on Japanese literature throughout the twelfth century. Court ladies and scholars studied, copied, and composed commentaries on this masterpiece, ensuring its canonical status.

Genji's psychological depth and aesthetic sophistication set standards for Japanese narrative that influenced all subsequent literature. Twelfth-century engagement with Genji produced derivative works, parodies, and critical commentaries that demonstrate active literary culture even as political power shifted away from the imperial court.