Yamada Bimyosai

1868 (age 42)

Tokyo, Japan

Yamada Bimyosai founded "Kenyusha" (writer's association) with his friends (1885) but soon seceded from it. He was chief editor of Miyako-no-hana magazine and publisher of Iratsume magazine for which he wrote many novels and short stories (from 1888). But he soon developed a touch of mannerism in his literary work and this, coupled with the fact that he kept himself aloof from the prosperous school of Koyo Ozaki, served to reduce his popularity and he died in comparative obscurity. He was also a lexicographer. Advocated and practiced writing in colloquial style. Novels include "Kocho" (Butterfly) and "Natsu-Kodachi" (Trees in Summer).