[Wustenfuchs]

Originally Posted by Geek44

Some of it is just amazing. There's stuff that's been done by some guy at the base, but there's stuff that's been done by folks with real skill. I read a book last year about the surviviors of Japan's Kamikaze 'program'. Fantastic book that I will certainly read again. I learned that to the Japanese, the female form depicted on weapons was/is(?) a kind of blasphemy. At the time, it made them view the Americans, who's attitude and culture was totally different, as sissies. Which leads me to a question for the group...
I'm interested in Japanese culture and have been since I was quite young. My father brought several original Japanese wood-block prints (Ukiyo-e) from Finland when he migrated...three are from the 18th century. I've done some reading into Japanese history and culture...I'm no expert but I have some understanding. During the war, there was the practice of beheading Allied pilots and aircrew who were shot down, often on the spot. To us totally barbaric and not the kind of behaviour most Allied servicemen displayed. To the Japanese though, this practice was coming from a totally different place. These pilots they were executing were in fact considered among the bravest of their enemies. The idea of traversing hundreds or even thousands of miles in aeroplanes to fight was highly regarded. In their minds, they were affording these warriors an honourable death. Different beliefs, perspectives, creeds, etc. Fascinating stuff to me.
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Woah! I am unaware of this but it sounds likely. I'm into collecting Japanese sake cups, Imari, Katani things and such. What book are you refering to?