One of Britain's most eminent experts on Japan has published a memoir that include recollections of his relationship with celebrated writer Yukio Mishima.
Geoffrey Bownas, 82, recalls one night when Mishima terrified him by drawing a sword and holding it aloft for three minutes, and then lamenting the weakening of Japanese traditions.
This incident happened only a few months before Mishima, an ardent nationalist, committed ritual suicide in November 1970 after he led his private army in a failed coup attempt.
Mishima, who was born Kimitake Hiraoka, despaired at Japan's pacifism and Western drift. He wanted a revival of Bushido, the samurai code of honor.