Tag Archives: Folklore

“Name the most horrible thing you know!”

Posted on August 19, 2026 by Brian D. Butler

This ukiyo-e woodblock print, by the late Edo period artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1798-1861), illustrates a story involving the “Sea Monk” or Umibōzu, a spirit in Japanese folklore. The ocean dwelling spirit — so called because of his smooth monk-like round head — is … Continue reading →

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Ghosts, Goblins and Samurai

Posted on August 31, 2025 by Brian D. Butler

Here he goes again blathering on about Japan. Anyway, I ran across this marvelous title that is resplendent with a series of wonderful illustrations by the British artist Evelyn Paul . The impressive  Myths & Legends of Japan, a guide … Continue reading →

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East of the Sun and West of the Moon

Posted on August 20, 2025 by Brian D. Butler

“You have traveled far, but the hardest part of a journey is always the next step.” ― Jackie Morris I grew up reading battered old copies of the fabulous early twentieth century collections of children’s stories, some of my flea market … Continue reading →

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If you see one coming, you should run

Posted on January 29, 2022 by Brian D. Butler

Aa a child I was fascinated by the old European Jewish tales of the Golem. When I visited Prague just after the Velvet Revolution, I had the opportunity to walk the streets of the ancient Ghetto and see the places … Continue reading →

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Grimm City

Posted on November 2, 2013 by Brian D. Butler

The 200th anniversary of the first publication of the Brothers Grimm fairytales was marked with a wide variety of touristy events in Germany. But the most imaginative and innovative celebration was a collaboration by a group of designers and architects. … Continue reading →

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