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I have been reading The Japanese Sword Column and thought it may be of niche interest to other Soylentils. It is written by Paul Martin, a noted British expert of Japanese swords. From the introduction:
Along with cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji, the Japanese sword has become one of the enduring symbols of Japan. It has experienced centuries of warfare, evolved through Mongol invasions, survived the introduction of the musket, the end of the samurai era, modernization, and confiscation and destruction by the Allied forces following World War II. They are an anachronism in modern society, yet they continue to be made. They are an integral part of Japanese culture.
Today, I feel very fortunate that we have access to Japanese swords and can observe the artistry of blades that were previously only accessible by Japan's ancient military and social elites.
I particularly enjoyed the July 25th article, The Changes in the Shape of the Japanese Sword. The articles are short, update infrequently and have plenty of pictures of museum-quality swords. A good fit for those with a casual interest in the subject.
(Score: 4, Informative) by moondrake on Tuesday October 10 2017, @02:45PM (4 children)
1) Japanese culture and language puts a lot of emphasize on politeness, quite the opposite of the US and the English language.
2) Arms were (and are) _heavily_ regulated, with guns being outlawed and only the samurai class having the right to bear arms (which became quite ceremonial until even that was abolished during the restoration).
I know you have an agenda to push, but this is the living example of something opposite to what you say. If I did not know better I would think you are being ironic.
(Score: 2) by Runaway1956 on Tuesday October 10 2017, @05:41PM (3 children)
So, you're saying that Japan has intentionally re-established it's caste system, and only the Samurai are permitted to own these swords?
(Score: 0) by Anonymous Coward on Wednesday October 11 2017, @07:26AM (2 children)
No, Runaway, that is not what he is saying. Try reading it again. Or perhaps, have one of your kids read it to you, and explain what it means. This is not the first time you have had this difficulty with reading comprehension. Is this a recent development, or have you always been semi-literate? If it is recent, you might want to have a medical professional check it out. Could be a sign of early onset dementia.
(Score: 2) by Runaway1956 on Wednesday October 11 2017, @01:23PM (1 child)
Alright, child - explain this to me: "2) Arms were (and are) _heavily_ regulated, with guns being outlawed and only the samurai class having the right to bear arms"
(Score: 0) by Anonymous Coward on Thursday October 12 2017, @06:40PM
arms are not only guns.
samurai could wear weapons, including swords and knives and bows.
samurai were DEFINITELY not afforded the right to bear firearms!