Honma Talks

Provided here is a translation of selected parts of the publication Kunzan Tōwa (薫山刀話), Honma Junji (本間順治, 1904–1991), Tōkyō Shuppan (東京出版), Tōkyō, 1972. The original publication is based on a taped interview between Honma and his most senior sword student, Ishii Masakuni (石井昌国, 1916–1990). Omitted were descriptions of well-known blades, which can be found in many other relevant publications, as the focus of this book are the valuable and behind-the-scenes insights of Honma Junji on topics usually not seen elsewhere. To provide a better understanding for non-Japanese readers, sensitive editorial changes were made by the translator, mainly regarding the background of referenced persons, historic context, mentioned places, and specific terms that are naturally understood by a native reader of the original publication. Also, period portrait photography of some of the persons involved were included to improve the reading experience.