Published posthumously in 1905, this book contains some of Hearn’s uncollected work
and is a charming interpretation of Japanese culture. In “The Romance of the Milky Way,” Hearn examines the stories behind the age-old Tanabata festival. “Goblins” discusses poetry and some supernatural subjects particular to Japanese literature. “Ultimate Questions,” is a lyrical response to Herbert Spencer’s philosophy. Other essays include “Stranger than Fiction” and “A Letter from Japan,” written in 1904, describing how Japanese society dealt with its war with Russia.