Talk:Shibui

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Sources[edit]

Can you get any sources that show that 渋い is an aesthetic, and not just a broad adjective? This is very similar to the problem that we have with the kawaii article.  freshofftheufoΓΛĿЌ  13:41, 30 June 2006 (UTC)[reply]

Both the Kodansha Encyclopedia of Japan and Louis Frederic's "Japan Encyclopedia" have entries on 渋い, describing it as an aesthetic and an important element of artistic and cultural history. Neither of these texts tend to include Japanese terms that translate directly into English; they focus only on those unique to Japanese culture which require some further explanation. I'd understand if you'd like to see some more academic scholarly sources that aren't encyclopedias; I just don't happen to have those sources in front of me right now. LordAmeth 15:06, 30 June 2006 (UTC)[reply]
No problem, I guess I'll have to pick me up a copy of Kodansha myself one of these days. A specific reference to the American magazine you stated would be perfect, though as it's pretty old that might be difficult. Forgive me for questioning the integrity of your article, though it's becoming more and more necessary to do so recently.  freshofftheufoΓΛĿЌ  06:14, 1 July 2006 (UTC)[reply]
No need to apologize. I understand... it is truly a fine line between what's encyclopedia and what's just dictionary material. LordAmeth 12:26, 1 July 2006 (UTC)[reply]

"Shibui" used like English "Cool"?[edit]

I had a native Japanese teacher once (although I forget what city she was from) who claimed that Japanese youth used the word "shibui" in a way very similar to the English "cool". That is, you could say "oh, that guy is so shibui/cool". Does anyone know anything about this? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 70.67.184.130 (talk) 20:46, 10 October 2008 (UTC)[reply]

I've come to understand shibumi as somewhat more encompassing that perfection in art and beauty. There's a small school in Bangalore that goes by the name 'Shibumi'. Their FAQ sheet defines shibumi as: "Shibumi is a Japanese word that means 'effortless perfection'. Anything that is Shibumi is quiet in refinement, noble and fulfilling in a manner that is not shaped exclusively by analytical thought. In Japanese culture, Shibumi implies 'a simplicity of spirit; an attitude of refinement without pretension, honesty without apology, beauty without artifice. Western mystics try to attain or achieve a state of inner peace, but shibumi must be found, not won.' Shibumi is understanding rather than knowledge, it is harmony in action. In art, it is understated beauty, articulate brevity. In philosophy, it is spiritual tranquility that is not passive; it is being without the angst of becoming." If I had to summarize it might be contentment with what is... —Preceding unsigned comment added by 208.69.196.2 (talk) 21:51, 27 January 2010 (UTC)[reply]

Billion Metal Alloy[edit]

In the last paragraph of the intro lies a parenthetic "Shibuichi is a billion metal alloy". Seems factually unlikely. What is the intended meaning here, and can it please be clarified in less opaque language? — Preceding unsigned comment added by 196.210.6.89 (talk) 14:49, 20 March 2020 (UTC)[reply]