If anyone is a betting man (or woman), I have a few special books, and a few special events to bet on. The first is National Foundation Day Japan. This day is to celebrate the founding of Japan. It is a safe bet that Japan is one of the most beautiful countries that I have visited. Much like Dorothy, when she opened her door, after a tornado-driven ride to OZ, when I first arrived in Tokyo, I realized “I was not in Kansas anymore.”
This is a Beautiful book “Japonica” by Sir Edwin Arnold”, 1891. This picture does not do justice to the yellow on the book. It is gold leaf. There are some very nice illustrations, and the descriptions of Japan from 130 years ago are truly inspiring. There are three chapters, discussing in words and pictures: Japan-The Country, Japanese People, and Japanese Ways and Thoughts. I was just as much in awe during my several trips to Japan.
From the top of Mt Fuji, to the base of Kintai bridge; from being meditive at the Ryoan-ji Temple, to excitement of the Shibuya Scramble in Tokyo; from walking through Torii lined paths, to a low-tide bay path to a flooded Torii; to even rubbing a Buddha’s belly from the inside, at Kamakura, I proceeded from one treasure to the next. I even sang ‘Cheap Trick” songs when in a garden at the Emperor’s palace, overlooking Budokon in the distance. You can bet that I will return.
Today is also the Superbowl. Who doesn’t bet on this game! It is not only the physical skills that can make a team a winner. There is much more.
If you want to hedge your bets, hope your team has read and uses this book, “The Theory & Practice of Gamesmanship, or the Art of Winning Games Without Actually Cheating” By Stephen Potter, 1947. This is an in-depth book on how to ‘get in the head’ of your opponent, and/or referees. Suggestions of confusion or doubt, when properly applied, can make all of the difference. As strange as it sounds, there is solid advice in this book.
The Best bet I ever made was was would I be happy marrying my wife. I won the happiness jackpot. I have here a rare book “The Knot Tied, Marriage Ceremonies of All Nations” by William Tegg, 1878. There are marvelous customs and quotes in this deluxe bound book. One Swedish quote specifically:
“Lavish not all your love on today; for remember that marriage has its tomorrow likewise; and its day after tomorrow, too. Spare, as one may say, fuel for the winter.” My wife and I have been able to weather 43 winters so far.
The only sure bet is on death and taxes. Williams Tegg wrote a companion volume “The Last Act, Being the Funeral Rites of Nations and Individuals” 1876. While not a good bet for marriages, this set is a Boxed Book Exacta. They hold a nice spot in the library.
How do I know I married the right partner? She always has my Baccarat. Keep reading.
Librarytomes 