Most of us are familiar with Memoirs of Geisha. Is there more we need to know about sexworkers In early 20th C Japan? It turns out there is and it’s quite a tale. Based on real life events, this is a different story with the same beginning – a girl from a poor family sold to a brothel. 

In 1903 fifteen year old Aci Ichi, daughter of a female sea diver, is taken to the most exclusive brothel in Kumamoto, Japan where she becomes the protegee of the highest ranking courtesan. As she is educated in the ways of the work, she comes to understand the power of sex and money intertwined. But the new recruits are also taught to read and write, and encouraged by her tutor, Ichi learns to think clearly and express herself in writing. Gradually the women of the brothel begin to work together to take control of their lives and, influenced by the local shipyard workers, they take decisive action and go on strike.

Really interesting, and key to the story, is the use of literacy. Ichi expresses herself through the poetry she writes in class, full of vivid ideas and emotion, which contrasts with the smooth, over-complimentary letters the courtesans write to their clients.

Possibly a little long, but well-worth reading to the end, whilst appreciating our ability to do so.

A Woman of Pleasure by Kiyoko Murata Translated by Juliet Winters Carpenter 

ISBN 978-1-804-44101-5 Pub: FOOTNOTE Press £12.99