Virginia Aronson Knihy

Exploring the phenomenon of hikikomori, this poetry collection delves into the emotional and spiritual struggles faced by individuals who withdraw from society, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Each poem is thoughtfully paired with a brief explanation, providing insight into the experiences of isolation and despair. Accompanied by unique illustrations, the collection invites readers to reflect on the profound impact of seclusion, fostering a deeper understanding of this contemporary issue.

Mottainai means waste. Popular with the Japanese for generations, mottainai (pronounced moe-tie-nye) is the Buddhist term for essence. One can say mottainai and mean waste nothing. Or, if something appears wasteful, one might remark, mottainai. Includes tips for cutting back on waste and helpful resources/references.