Noel’s Reviews > The Pillow Book > Status Update

Toward the middle of the twelfth month there’s a great fall of snow. The ladies decide they should have a snow mountain built in the garden. All the servants at home are asked to come help create an “absolutely towering snow mountain” under the threat of losing three days’ pay. The Empress asks everyone how long they think the mountain will last. Everyone gives opinions ranging over a week or two, but…

Things that create the appearance of deep emotion – The sound of your voice when you’re constantly blowing your runny nose as you talk.

Plucking your eyebrows.

(Finally on my reading break after days of being sleep deprived, so hopefully I’ll get through this the next week.)

Rare things – A son-in-law who’s praised by his wife’s father. Likewise, a wife who’s loved by her mother-in-law.

A pair of silver tweezers that can actually pull out hairs properly.

A retainer who doesn’t speak ill of his master.

A person who is without a single quirk. Someone who’s superior in both appearance and character, and who’s remained utterly blameless throughout his long…

[…]

Shōnagon finds it “unsuitable” that snow falls on the houses of the common folk. “Moonlight shining into such houses is also a great shame.”

Things that make your heart beat fast – A sparrow with nestlings. Going past a place where tiny children are playing. Lighting some fine incense and then lying down alone to sleep. Looking into a Chinese mirror that’s a little clouded. A fine gentleman pulls up in his carriage and sends in some request.

To wash your hair, apply your makeup and put on clothes that are well-scented with incense.

[…]

Footnote: “Only cats of fourth and fifth rank were permitted in the Emperor’s palace.”