Kunikida Doppo, given name Tatsuo, was an early author of Romantic novels and poetry but went on to become one of the founders of Japanese naturalism. Kunikida attended Waseda University, but his politically defiant attitude led to his expulsion before he graduated. He became a Christian at age 21, and reflections of his religion can be seen in his later writings. Kunikida’s works include Musashino (1901; tr. Musashino, 1983) Azamaukazaru no ki (An Honest Diary, 1893), and “Haru no tori” (1904; tr. Spring Birds, 1954). Kunikida died of tuberculosis at age 36.
Historical dictionary of modern Japanese literature and theater. J. Scott Miller. 2009.