Greetings, dear listeners! I'm Lottie, your trusted voice from the cosy Chatswolds, and today, we've got an exciting journey planned. We'll be venturing into the mesmerising world of 'Dark Grimm', exploring everything from the beloved Snow White to lesser-known, darker tales. But this journey is not one I embark on alone; we have a new addition to our Cala Vox family, Keita, joining us from our dependence in the captivating city of Kyoto, Japan.
Keita's soothing voice carries the serene tranquillity that Kyoto is renowned for - the whispering beauty of the Kamo River, the reflective peace of the Kinkaku-ji, the city's Golden Pavilion. Recently, I had a chat with Keita, and though he's still getting the hang of English, he shared some interesting insights in his native language.
He told me that Grimm's fairy tales hold a special place in the hearts of Japanese readers, spanning across age groups and making frequent appearances as both bedtime stories for children and intriguing reads for adults. From Snow White and Little Red Riding Hood to Rapunzel, these stories have a deep-seated influence on the Japanese culture.
Keita also noted that when Japan opened its doors to the world in 1867, it found inspiration in Germany, the leading power in Europe. The romanticism inherent in German folk tales was adopted in Japan, resulting in a deep-rooted cultural bond that persists to this day. This connection even transcends borders, with German Grimm enthusiasts traveling to Japan for fairy tale festivals and Japanese television crews visiting the original homes of the Brothers Grimm for filming.
But the intriguing part is that it's not just the popular tales that have captured Japanese readers' hearts. The lesser-known, often darker, Grimm fairy tales have found a unique audience in Japan, resonating with their love for complex narratives. Tales like 'The Robber Bridegroom', 'The Juniper Tree', and 'The Fitcher's Bird' offer a grimmer image of the fairy tale world we've all grown to love.
As we embark on this journey into the 'Dark Grimm' world, Keita and I can't wait to share these unique perspectives with you, dear listeners. So buckle up as we delve into our first story, 'Snow White'. Remember, your thoughts and feedback will light our way in this enchanting world.
Don't miss out, let your imagination soar, and remember to like, comment, and subscribe for more delightful journeys into the magical world of fairy tales. See you soon on our next episode, dear listeners!
