An eloquent, account of Heian court life, written in the 10th century by Sei Shonagon, an attendant to Empress Sadako. In addition to fascinating descriptions of goings-on about the court and musings on life and nature, there are classified lists of items such as "Things that Cannot be Compared" and "Things That One Is in a Hurry to See or Hear." Sei Shonagon's witty observations are a delight to read for their insight into 10th-century court life.  (JPN76, $16.00)