Kotaro Takamura

Takamura, Kotaro (kō'tä'rō tä'kä'mū'rä), 1883-1956, Japanese poet and sculptor. After studying art in France, where he was profoundly influenced by Rodin, Takamura devoted his career to applying Western aesthetics to Japanese poetry and sculpture. Takamura's poetry, almost all in free verse, underwent many changes. His early decadent style later shifted to one of simplicity and direct expression. Perhaps regretting the militaristic literary stance he assumed during World War II, Takamura retired from public life after the war. Takamura is best known for his series of poignant poems written about his wife Chieko, whom he watched slowly descend into madness.