On 30 June 2023, DIJ PhD student Sarah Puetzer (Oxford University) will give a talk on ‚Distant Intimacy: Negotiating Space in Japanese Pandemic Poetry‘ to explore the work of young Japanese poets during the COVID-19 pandemic. The presentation focuses on the three exemplary poets Saihate Tahi, Fuzuki Yumi, and Mizusawa Nao. In response to social distancing measures and event cancellations, these poets created alternative spaces to showcase their poetry. Through an analysis of their works, Sarah’s presentation will delve into the diverse manifestations of these ‚poetic spaces‘, ranging from indoor and outdoor poetry installations by Saihate Tahi and Fuzuki Yumi, to virtual exhibitions, as demonstrated by Mizusawa Nao. The presentation will unveil how their poetry sometimes fostered engagement and connection among recipients, while at other times, further isolating them. The event is part of the Japan-in-Asia Cultural Studies Program (JACS) Lecture Series at Nagoya University. Details here