Note 39 — Chapter II · ASAGAO
Arthur Waley translation
Consequently an aunt both of Asagao and Genji, who were first cousins; Prince Momozono, Asagao’s father, being a brother of Genji’s father, the old Emperor. Asagao was the one lady whom Genji had courted in vain. See vol. i, p. 68.
40 Aoi’s mother.
41 I.e. making love to her.
42 Allusion to the poem: ‘By the River of Cleansing I tied prayer-strips inscribed “I will love no more”; but it seems that the Gods would not accept my vow.’
43 Asagao.
44 Where Murasaki would not be likely to come.
45 In the men’s quarters.
46 During the 10th month the Gods withdraw themselves and cannot hear our prayers; their return in the 11th month is celebrated with rejoicing; but this year, owing to the National Mourning for Fujitsubo’s death, these ceremonies were omitted.
47 See vol. i, p. 229.
48 572–621 A.D.
49 Asagao.
50 Buddhism. She had been Vestal in the Shintō temple at Kamo, where no Buddhist prayers or observances were allowed.
51 Rokujō was his second.
52 The lady from the Village of Falling Flowers.
53 Generally called by the ugly name ‘Mandarin Duck.’
54 Through each of the Three Evil Realms (of Animals, Hungry Ghosts and Demons) runs a meandering river.