2. The Broom-Tree / The Broom Tree(帚木)
Passage
“I knew not the nature of the strange tree that stands on Sono plain, and when I sought the comfort of its shade, I did but lose my road,”
A poem sent by Genji to Utsusemi.
Legend has it that the "broom-tree" is visible from a distance, but disappears when approached. Utsusemi avoids Genji. Genji likened her to a “broom-tree”.
Summary
The summer when Genji is 17 years old. He is on night duty at the court, his friends was there(To no Chujo) . They are son of aristocrat. They talk about romantic experiences and ideal ladies.
The next day, Genji stays at the house of state governor (Zuryo). He has an affair with governor's young wife (Utsusemi). Worrying about the difference in class, Utsusemi begins to avoid Genji.
Comment
Teen's talk of 1,200 years ago. The boys present their ideal lady. her class, education, career...
I remember That the author of this story is a woman. Did Murasaki Shikibu(Lady Murasaki) let a male character speak her opinion? Or did her create a homosocial conversation? There is no easy answer. She was an astute novelist.