Country：Japan

Authorship：Principal investigator 

Grant amount：\4030000 （ Direct Cost: \3100000 、 Indirect Cost：\930000 ）

Supported by JSPS, this study will contribute to a more holistic and positive re-imagining of Japanese aged culture in both Asian and American scholarship, by challenging the“decline” narrative of aging that is overwhelming in Japanese and the other societies.
In 2023, I advanced research plans by delving into the works of Tanabe Seiko and fostering collaboration with US scholars on aging literature, culminating in the organization of a panel at the AAS conference in Seattle. This initiative, inspired by Chun's dedication, focused on exploring imperfection, aging, and resistance in Japanese women's literary narratives. Themed "Japanese Women Writers and the Power of Imperfection," the conference not only facilitated scholarly networking but also expanded the readership of elderly Japanese literature. Departing from conventional portrayals where imperfection signifies weakness, the project investigated how characters strategically employ imperfections to challenge societal norms and gender biases, particularly narratives surrounding aging. Insights gleaned from the conference shed light on writers who subverted traditional narratives. The examination of women's writing groups revealed how elderly women forge empowering communities through writing, overcoming marginalization due to age-related imperfections. Chun's analysis of Tanabe Seiko's short story challenged societal notions of bodily perfection within the context of old age. These reflections offered broader insights into the use of physical impairment as metaphorical language by elderly women writers, contributing to a more inclusive narrative in Japanese literature. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, this initiative aimed to deepen understanding of aging, elderly culture, and inclusive narratives in Japanese literature while expanding its readership globally.
Amidst the transition to the post-Covid "new normal," the research progress has encountered slight delays attributed to the university's heightened workload. Managing increased inbound and outbound Japanese student exchanges, alongside expanded international relations responsibilities, has stretched resources thin. The surge in administrative tasks associated with facilitating these exchanges, in addition to adjusting to the new normal protocols, has diverted attention from research endeavors. Consequently, while navigating these increased demands, the research team has faced challenges in maintaining the project's original timeline.
FY 2024 as a final research, I will aims to organize, titled "Speak up with the Elderly" International Collaborative Symposium and Workshop in Japan to strengthen scholarly networks and broaden readership, particularly in Japan, Korea, and Italy, where the works of Tanabe Seiko and Kurahashi Yumiko are highly esteemed. Collaborative efforts, including engagement with scholars like Dr. Daniela Moro, will enrich understanding of Japanese aged culture. The project aims to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity. The culmination of this effort will be a co-authored journal publication, responding to foreign readership and advancing global appreciation for Japanese literature, fostering cross-cultural exchange and collaboration.

Level：Undergraduate (liberal arts)  Country：Japan