A man Iā€™d like to meetā€¦

Iā€™m talking about Professor Donald Keene. Born in 1922 in New York City, Professor Keene is a Japanologist who taught Japanese Literature at Columbia University for over fifty years. After the 2011 March 11 disaster he decided to apply for Japanese citizenship and to live out the remainder of his days in Japan. Already well known and revered in Japan, his move has earned him even greater respect. He’s certainly someone I’d like to meet.

2011 Tōhoku Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan

I’d like to extend my sympathy to all those in Japan who are struggling because of the 2011 earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster. I think the whole world has been impressed by the courage and unity displayed by these people throughout this ordeal. I have spoken to friends who live in Sendai within the Tōhoku Region and they remain positive despite the devastation that surrounds them. I’ve also spoken to friends living on the outskirts of Tokyo and while they’re concerned about the obvious negative environmental and economic impacts on Japan, they also appear optimistic.