February 20, 2013

In Memoriam, Donald Richie 1924–2013

Hailing from Ohio, U.S.A., Donald Richie first arrived during the U.S. Occupation and spent close to 66 years as a long-time resident of Tokyo. He was first and foremost a writer, who was instrumental in introducing Japanese cinema to the world. Though best known for The Inland Sea  and The Japan Journals (1947-2004), his vignettes and insights on Japan, its people (Japanese Portraits), and its culture show Richie an avid observer wherever he perambulated – the Lacfadio Hearn of our times. He leaves a legacy of over 40 books. Richie supported SWET from its very beginnings, and for this we are grateful.