We lead our lives like water flowing down a hill, going more or less in one direction until we splash into something that forces us to find a new course.
Arthur Golden – Memoirs of a Geisha
Arthur Golden, born on December 6, 1956, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is an American author best known for his novel “Memoirs of a Geisha.” Before becoming a writer, Golden studied Japanese language and culture at Harvard University and later worked in Tokyo. “Memoirs of a Geisha,” published in 1997, became a massive international bestseller, captivating readers with its detailed portrayal of the life of a geisha in pre-World War II Japan. The novel, based on extensive research and interviews, was praised for its vivid storytelling and meticulous depiction of Japanese culture. Despite its commercial success, the book also faced criticism for its portrayal of geisha culture and was embroiled in controversy. Nevertheless, Golden’s work continues to be widely read and studied for its unique perspective on a fascinating chapter of Japanese history.