Aoneko

work by Hagiwara

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July 17, 2026

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Aoneko is a collection of poetry by Hagiwara Sakutarō, published in 1923. It is considered a significant work in modern Japanese literature, contributing to the development of free verse in the country.1

In Aoneko, Hagiwara presents a persona of a tormented and unhappy individual yearning for affection. The collection is characterized by its exploration of personal struggles and "psychic terror," as described by Hagiwara himself. This work, along with his earlier collection Tsuki ni hoeru (Howling at the Moon), established Hagiwara's reputation as a poet.1

Hagiwara Sakutarō is recognized as the father of free verse in Japanese poetry. His work often delves into intimate emotional states rather than focusing on natural beauty. The term "Aoneko" translates to "Blue Cat". While oni are demonic creatures in Japanese folklore, they are distinct from Hagiwara's literary work.12

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Hagiwara Sakutarō
In his second poetry collection, Aoneko (1923; “Blue Cat”), Hagiwara presented himself as a cheerless and tormented man thirsting for affection. These two collections established his reputation as a poet. His difficult style was not immediately understood, although one of the leaders of the Japanese literary world, the novelist Mori…
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In his second poetry collection, Aoneko (1923; “Blue Cat”), Hagiwara presented himself as a cheerless and tormented man thirsting for affection. These two collections established his reputation as a poet. His difficult style was not immediately understood, although one of the leaders of the Japanese literary world, the novelist Mori…
Read More