The Pillow Book

by

Sei Shonagon

Korechika is a Grand Counsellor in the imperial court, a relative of Teishi, and is a frequent fixture in Teishi’s court. He tries to draw Sei out of her shell when she is a new, bashful gentlewoman in service. He is knowledgeable about poetry, frequently called upon to recite or to lecture on the subject. He gives Empress Teishi the bundle of paper which becomes Sei’s The Pillow Book.
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Korechika Character Timeline in The Pillow Book

The timeline below shows where the character Korechika appears in The Pillow Book. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Section 20
Poetry and Social Relationships Theme Icon
Aesthetic Beauty, Delight, and Cultural Tradition Theme Icon
...creatures. One day there is a large vase filled with cherry branches, beside which sits Korechika, a visiting Grand Counsellor. Everyone—the ladies and Korechika—are dressed in the cherry blossom combination. When... (full context)
Sections 160–176
Court Life vs. Common Life Theme Icon
At one point, Sei is watching Grand Counsellor Korechika visiting with the Empress and her ladies, all of them conversing freely. Sei is mortified... (full context)
Sections 260–297
Poetry and Social Relationships Theme Icon
One day, Grand Counsellor Korechika is giving a talk to the Emperor on Chinese poetry. The talk continues until very... (full context)
Sections S1–S29
Court Life vs. Common Life Theme Icon
One day, Korechika presents the Empress with a bundle of paper. Her Majesty asks Sei what she might... (full context)