Doppo Kunikida was born in 1871 in Chōshi, Chiba Prefecture. He was a prominent poet, novelist, journalist, and editor during Japan’s Meiji era.
His notable works include romantic pieces, such as Musashino and Beef and Potatoes, which emphasize poetic expression and the beauty of nature. He also wrote naturalistic works like Spring Birds, which sharply examines the influence of society and the environment on human beings. These works reflect Kunikida’s dual approach to writing, combining a romantic sensibility with a naturalist’s keen observational eye.
In his early childhood, Kunikida moved frequently due to his father’s work, living in various places, including Hagi City (Yamaguchi Prefecture), Hiroshima Prefecture, and Iwakuni City (Yamaguchi Prefecture). In 1888, at the age of 17, he entered the English Department at Waseda University (then known as the English Normal Course), where he developed an interest in Yoshida Shōin and the Meiji Restoration. He later transferred to the English Political Science Department and, in 1891, was baptized as a Christian.
Afterward, Kunikida opened Wano Eigaku Juku (Wano English School) in a former school building, where he taught English and composition to his younger brother, Shūji (seven years his junior), and local children. He also worked as an English and mathematics teacher at a school in Saiki City, Oita Prefecture, in Kyushu, where he dedicated himself to education while living with his brother. However, his Christian faith led to opposition from both students and teachers, and he was forced to resign after less than a year.
During his time in Saiki, Kunikida climbed Mount Shikama, Mount Hikosan, and Mount Motogoe, with a particular fondness for Mount Shiro, which he visited multiple times. His experiences with the natural landscapes of Kyushu are recorded in detail in his diary “Azamukazaru no Ki” (The Record of No Deceit). These experiences influenced later works, such as Spring Birds, Gen Oji, and Deer Hunting.
After leaving Saiki, Kunikida served as a war correspondent during the Sino-Japanese War, gaining recognition as a newspaper journalist. Upon returning to Japan, he attended a banquet for war correspondents, where he met Nobuko, the daughter of the secretary of the Japan Christian Women’s Temperance Union. Despite the strong opposition of her parents, Kunikida married Nobuko. However, due to extreme poverty, Nobuko was forced to return to her parents’ home. The following year, Nobuko disappeared, and they divorced. Deeply affected by these events, Kunikida was advised by those he revered to travel to the United States, but he was unable to carry out this plan.
Later in life, Kunikida produced renowned works, including Musashino, First Love, and Beef and Potatoes. At the young age of 37, he passed away, leaving behind a significant literary legacy.
