Rofū Miki

1.1. Birth and Family Background

Miki was born Masao Miki on June 23, 1889, in Tatsuno, Hyōgo Prefecture, as the eldest son of Setsujirō Miki, a banker, and Kata Midorikawa (1869-1962). His mother, Kata, was a notable figure in the women's movement during the Meiji period and also worked as a nurse; she had married at the age of 15. Rofū had a younger brother, Tsutomu, and a younger half-brother, Michio Midorikawa, who became a film cameraman. When Miki was five years old, his parents divorced in 1895 due to his father's dissolute lifestyle. Following the divorce, his mother took his younger brother, while Rofū was taken in and raised by his paternal grandfather, who served as the first mayor of Tatsuno. The Miki family also had a connection to the acclaimed writer Doppo Kunikida, whose great-grandmother was from the Miki family.

1.2. Education

Miki began his education in Tatsuno, attending both elementary and middle school there. He was considered a precocious talent, contributing poems, haiku, and tanka to newspapers and magazines even during his elementary and middle school years. Although he entered middle school as a top student, his intense focus on literature made graduating difficult, leading him to transfer to Shizutani School in Okayama Prefecture. His dedication to literature continued during his attempts to enter high school in Tokyo, where he reportedly failed entrance exams due to his literary immersion. He later pursued higher education in literature at Waseda University and Keiō University in Tokyo.

1.3. Early Literary Activities

Miki's entry into the literary world began early in his student life. At the age of 17, in 1905, he published his debut collection of poems, titled Natsu-hime (夏姫_{Summer Princess}^Japanese). Two years later, in 1907, he co-founded the Waseda Poetry Society (早稲田詩社_{Waseda Shisha}^Japanese) with other prominent poets such as Kyofu Soma and Ujo Noguchi. It was around this time that he shifted his focus entirely from tanka to poetry, becoming incredibly prolific, publishing works in several magazines each month. In 1909, at the age of 20, he released his representative poetry collection, Haien (廃園_Haien^Japanese), often translated as The Ruined Garden or Abandoned Garden, which garnered significant attention for its use of free verse. Miki quickly gained recognition as an early talent and was frequently compared to Hakushū Kitahara in terms of style and stature. The two poets were instrumental in shaping the "Hakuro Jidai" (白露時代_{White Dew Era}^Japanese), a significant period in modern Japanese poetry. In 1912, he published Doppo Shishu (独歩詩集_{Doppo's Poetry Collection}^Japanese), connecting to his family's historical ties with Doppo Kunikida. Despite his burgeoning success, a period of illness in 1908 led to hospitalization and a return home for recovery. The death of his grandfather in 1911, who had been a parental figure, plunged Miki into a period of deep personal struggle. However, he emerged from this period to publish Shiriki Te no Karyudo (白き手の猟人_{Hunter with White Hands}^Japanese) in 1913, a work that solidified his mastery of symbolist poetry. He also co-founded the Mirai-sha (未來社_{Future Society}^Japanese) literary group, which advocated for pure art, alongside poets like Ryuko Kawaji, Yaso Saijo, and Takeshi Yanagisawa. Despite his prolific and successful literary output during this period, Miki grappled with deep solitude and emptiness, which eventually led him to explore religious faith alongside his poetic endeavors.

2.1. Symbolism and Major Poetry Collections

Miki Rofū is considered one of the foremost representatives of Japanese symbolism. His early work, particularly Haien (1909), was groundbreaking for its embrace of free verse and its evocative, symbolic imagery, quickly establishing him as a significant voice in the literary scene. Alongside his contemporary, Hakushū Kitahara, Miki contributed to a period known as the "Hakuro Jidai," which was characterized by a new wave of symbolic and aesthetic poetry in Japan. His subsequent collections, such as Sabishiki Akebono (寂しき曙_{Lonely Dawn}^Japanese, 1910) and Shiriki Te no Karyudo (白き手の猟人_{Hunter with White Hands}^Japanese, 1913), further deepened his exploration of symbolist themes, developing a sophisticated and complete world of symbolic expression. These works cemented his reputation as a master of the symbolist poetic form, showcasing his command of language and his ability to evoke profound emotional landscapes.

2.2. Children's Literature and "Akatombo"

Around 1918, Miki Rofū became actively involved in the "Akai Tori" (赤い鳥_{Red Bird}^Japanese) movement, led by Miekichi Suzuki, which sought to revolutionize children's literature in Japan. He contributed extensively to Suzuki's newly founded children's literature magazine, also titled Akai Tori. Within this movement, Miki played a crucial role in developing dōyō, a new genre of children's verses and songs that prioritized high artistic quality, aesthetic beauty, and emotional depth. His contributions helped elevate children's literature from didacticism to an art form. In 1921, he published Shinjushima (真珠島_{Pearl Island}^Japanese), a collection of verses for children. This collection included the poem "Akatombo" (赤とんぼ_{Red Dragonfly}^Japanese), which was famously set to music by the renowned composer Kōsaku Yamada in 1927. "Akatombo" quickly became one of Japan's most beloved songs, celebrated for its nostalgic melody and poignant lyrics about red dragonflies and childhood memories. Its enduring popularity was highlighted in 1989 when it was voted Japan's favorite song in a survey conducted by the NHK show "Japanese Songs, Hometown Songs." The song's cultural significance is further commemorated by a large wall-sized monument with memorial plaques erected in Miki's hometown of Tatsuno.

2.3. Essays and Religious Writings

Beyond his celebrated poetry and children's literature, Miki Rofū was also a prolific essayist and author of works with a strong religious and philosophical bent. His spiritual journey, particularly his conversion to Catholicism, deeply influenced his prose. Key works reflecting his faith include the essays Shūdōin seikatsu (修道院生活_{Monastery Life}^Japanese, 1926) and Nihon katorikkukyōshi (日本カトリック教史_{History of Catholicism in Japan}^Japanese, 1929). These writings explored his experiences in the Trappist monastery and his extensive research into the history of Catholicism in Japan. His essays often intertwined personal reflections with broader themes of spirituality, art, and the human condition. Other notable essay collections include Shūdōin sappitsu (修道院雑筆_{Monastery Notes}^Japanese, 1925) and Waga ayumeru michi (我が歩める道_{My Path}^Japanese, 1928), offering insights into his evolving worldview and literary philosophy.

3.1. Baptism and Catholic Faith

From 1916 to 1924, Miki Rofū resided and worked at a Trappist monastery in Kamiiso, Hokkaido (now part of Hokuto). During this period, he served as a lecturer in literature. His stay at the monastery deeply resonated with him, and he underwent a significant spiritual transformation. After publishing Genso no Den'en (幻の田園_{Illusory Countryside}^Japanese, 1915), which marked a turning point in his integration of faith and poetry, he went on to publish the religious poetry collection Ryōshin (良心_Conscience^Japanese, 1915) based on his experiences there. He made two more stays at the monastery before accepting a permanent lecturer position for literary theory and aesthetics in May 1920, settling there for approximately five years. It was during this period, in 1922, that he was baptized and officially joined the Catholic faith, taking the Christian name Paul. His deep faith continued to develop, leading him to publish religious poems and essays, and to engage in proselytizing activities through lectures.

3.2. Faith-related Writings

Miki Rofū's profound Catholic faith was extensively explored in his writings, bridging his spiritual experiences with his literary endeavors. His essays such as Shūdōin sappitsu (修道院雑筆_{Monastery Notes}^Japanese, 1925) and Shūdōin seikatsu (修道院生活_{Monastery Life}^Japanese, 1926) offer intimate reflections on his time within the Trappist monastery and the spiritual insights he gained. Beyond personal narrative, he also undertook scholarly work on the history of Catholicism in Japan, culminating in his comprehensive book Nihon katorikkukyōshi (日本カトリック教史_{History of Catholicism in Japan}^Japanese, 1929). These works not only reflect his personal conviction but also served to promote his faith through literature and historical research. In recognition of his contributions to Christian literature and his deep faith, the Vatican bestowed upon him the title of Christian Knight in 1927, making him the first Japanese individual to receive the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, specifically the 4th class Chevalier Saint Sépulcre (Knight of the Holy Sepulchre) and the title of Holy Knight from the Roman Pontiff.

6.1. Cultural Impact of "Akatombo"

The children's song "Akatombo" (Red Dragonfly), with lyrics by Miki Rofū and music by Kōsaku Yamada, holds immense cultural significance in Japan. Its widespread popularity has made it one of the nation's most cherished songs, often associated with nostalgia for childhood and traditional Japanese landscapes. In 1989, it was voted Japan's favorite song in a survey conducted by NHK, underscoring its enduring presence in the national consciousness. The song's melody is utilized as the evening chime for Mitaka City's disaster prevention radio, and the city's community bus, "Mitaka City Bus," is affectionately known as the "Akatombo Bus," featuring a red body and a dragonfly emblem. These integrations into daily life demonstrate the song's deep cultural penetration and its status as a beloved symbol.

6.2. Commemorative Projects and Places

Miki Rofū's contributions are extensively commemorated in both his hometown of Tatsuno, Hyōgo Prefecture, and his long-term residence in Mitaka, Tokyo.

• Tatsuno City:** Since 1985, Tatsuno City (which expanded through a municipal merger on October 1, 2005) has annually hosted the "Miki Rofū Award: New Dōyō Contest," a children's song competition named in his honor. The Kasumijo-kan (霞城館_{Mist Castle Hall}^Japanese) in Tatsuno City is a literary museum dedicated to his legacy. Shiragiyama Park (白鷺山公園_{White Egret Mountain Park}^Japanese) in Tatsuno features an "Akatombo" song monument. The Nyoraiji Temple (如来寺_Nyorai-ji^Japanese) in Tatsuno City houses a statue of Rofū Miki, a brush monument, and a song monument.

• Mitaka City:** In 2001, Tatsuno City and Mitaka City formed a sister city partnership in honor of Miki Rofū's legacy, reflecting his significance to both regions. Mitaka Municipal Takayama Elementary School (三鷹市立高山小学校_{Mitaka Shiritsu Takayama Shōgakkō}^Japanese), established in 1959 at Mure 4-6-12, had its school song penned by Miki in 1963, as he lived nearby. The school maintains a "Miki Rofū Corner" displaying his original manuscripts and a chronology of his life. In February 2009, to commemorate the 120th anniversary of his birth, Mitaka City opened the "Akatombo Children's Park" (赤とんぼ児童遊園_{Akatombo Jidō Yuen}^Japanese) in Mure, the area where he lived for decades. This park, developed as part of the Mitakadai housing complex redevelopment, features a monument to the "Akatombo" song and other monuments detailing Miki's life. Additionally, a statue depicting the "Akatombo" sisters stands along Chuo-dori (Central Avenue) at the south exit of Mitaka Station. His grave is located at the Daiseiji Separate Temple Cemetery in Mure 2-14-16, Mitaka City.

6.3. Awards and Honors

Rofū Miki received several prestigious awards and honors throughout his lifetime and posthumously, recognizing his significant contributions to Japanese literature and culture:

• 1927:** Awarded the Order of the Holy Sepulchre by the Vatican, specifically the 4th class Chevalier Saint Sépulcre (Knight of the Holy Sepulchre) and the title of Holy Knight.
• 1963:** Awarded the Japanese Medal of Honor with a purple ribbon (紫綬褒章_{Shiju Hōshō}^Japanese).
• 1965:** Posthumously awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, 4th class (勲四等瑞宝章_{Kun-yontō Zuihōshō}^Japanese).

7.1. Poetry Collections

Miki Rofū published a significant number of poetry collections throughout his career, reflecting his evolution as a poet, particularly in the symbolist movement and later his religious themes.

• 1906: Natsu-hime (夏姫_{Summer Princess}^Japanese)
• 1908: Yameru Bara (病める薔薇_{The Sick Rose}^Japanese)
• 1909: Haien (廃園_Haien^Japanese), often translated as The Ruined Garden or Abandoned Garden
• 1910: Sabishiki akebono (寂しき曙_{Lonely Dawn}^Japanese)
• 1913: Shiriki Te no Karyudo (白き手の猟人_{Hunter with White Hands}^Japanese)
• 1913: Rofūshū (露風集_{Rofū's Collection}^Japanese)
• 1915: Ryōshin (良心_Conscience^Japanese)
• 1915: Maboroshi no Den'en (幻の田園_{Illusory Countryside}^Japanese)
• 1920: Ashi Ma no Gen'ei (蘆間の幻影_{Illusion in the Reeds}^Japanese)
• 1920: Sei to ai (生と恋_{Life and Love}^Japanese)
• 1921: Shinjushima (真珠島_{Pearl Island}^Japanese)
• 1922: Aoki Kokage (青き樹かげ_{Green Tree Shade}^Japanese)
• 1922: Shinkō no akebono (信仰の曙_{Dawn of Faith}^Japanese)
• 1926: Kotori no Tomo (小鳥の友_{Friends of Small Birds}^Japanese)
• 1926: Kami to hito (神と人_{Gods and Men}^Japanese)
• 1926: Torapisuto kashū (トラピスト歌集_{Trappist Anthology}^Japanese)

7.2. Essay Collections

Rofū Miki's prose works, including his essays and critical writings, delve into literary theory, personal reflections, and religious history.

• 1915: Rofū Shiwa (露風詩話_{Rofū's Poetic Discourses}^Japanese)
• 1925: Shika no Michi (詩歌の道_{The Path of Poetry}^Japanese)
• 1925: Shūdōin sappitsu (修道院雑筆_{Monastery Notes}^Japanese)
• 1926: Shūdōin seikatsu (修道院生活_{Monastery Life}^Japanese)
• 1928: Waga ayumeru michi (我が歩める道_{My Path}^Japanese)
• 1929: Nihon katorikkukyōshi (日本カトリック教史_{History of Catholicism in Japan}^Japanese)

7.3. Lyrics and Children's Songs

Miki Rofū's contributions to children's songs, especially through the dōyō movement, are among his most enduring works. He also authored lyrics for numerous school songs.

• "Akatombo" (赤とんぼ_{Red Dragonfly}^Japanese) - composed by Kōsaku Yamada
• "Aki no Yo" (秋の夜_{Autumn Night}^Japanese) - composed by Kōsaku Yamada
• "Kakko" (かっこう_Cuckoo^Japanese) - composed by Kōsaku Yamada
• "Jūgoya" (十五夜_{Fifteenth Night}^Japanese) - composed by Kōsaku Yamada
• "Nobara" (野薔薇_{Wild Rose}^Japanese) - composed by Kōsaku Yamada

• School Songs:**