The Life of an Amorous Man is an enthralling tale set in seventeenth-century Japan, following the escapades of the adventurous Yonosuke. This narrative unfolds his lifelong pursuit of sensual delights, from his early childhood to his relentless search for the fabled "isle of Nogo." While ostensibly a chronicle of indulgence, the story offers a vibrant depiction of Japanese society and the lives of various women during the early Tokugawa era.

The Journey Begins

The novel is structured in two parts, each narrating a distinct phase of Yonosuke's life. His inherited sensitivity to "sensual nuances or suggestions" stems from a background rich in indulgence. His father, a wealthy man, spent years reveling in the allure of beautiful women and fine wine, while his mother once held fame as a courtesan. Even before puberty, Yonosuke is adept at penning romantic notes, courting women, and understanding the fusion of etiquette and pleasure. His initiation into manhood begins in an unconventional manner, leading to his education in the art of seduction. With the guidance of an elderly mentor, Yonosuke navigates the intricate world of illicit affairs.

A World of Encounters

Yonosuke's father remains tolerant of his son's escapades as long as he maintains some semblance of involvement in business. However, Yonosuke's resolve to indulge fully in pleasure leads to his father's eventual disownment. By nineteen, Yonosuke is exhausted from his never-ending pursuit of pleasure. His life transitions through episodes of temporary repentance; he briefly becomes a monk, only to abandon the spiritual path and return to worldly pleasures. Engaging in various trades, he sustains himself while continuing his quest for amorous experiences. Despite financial hardships, Yonosuke's passion for women remains unabated.

The Connoisseur of Pleasure

As Yonosuke becomes a connoisseur of the "gay world," he earns the admiration of wealthy men who value his worldly insights. Despite his poverty, he holds discerning standards for courtesans, favoring those with finesse and charm. His travels across Japan expose him to the diverse styles of courtesans in cities like Kyoto, Edo, and Osaka. Driven by an insatiable desire, he seduces women from all walks of life, including village maidens, city wives, and refined courtesans. Each encounter only fuels his hunger for more sophistication and pleasure.

An Unyielding Quest

Yonosuke's relentless pursuit of pleasure leads to trouble; he faces imprisonment and is haunted by dreams of women he wronged. Nonetheless, he remains a sought-after expert on promiscuous women, even serving idle rich clients seeking his recommendations for new pleasures. Haunted by his past, Yonosuke considers a life of asceticism but reverts to his hedonistic lifestyle upon inheriting a fortune from his deceased father. This newfound wealth allows him to lavishly indulge his passions once more.

The High Life

In the latter part of the novel, Yonosuke, now affluent, explores the opulent realms of the pleasure world. He marries Yoshino, a famous hostess, but soon tires of domesticity, seeking thrilling adventures instead. His wealth enables extravagant exploits, such as selecting the finest courtesans in Murotsu. Yonosuke's discerning eye for beauty and grace makes him a celebrated patron within Japan's social circles.

Life's Final Act

As he ages, Yonosuke finds little change in his hedonistic tendencies. He gains a reputation for generosity, donating to temples and aiding those less fortunate within his sphere. His extravagance extends to a grand gift for the courtesans of Nagasaki—a collection of exquisite dolls representing the epitome of beauty from different regions. This gesture becomes a symbol of opulence and a testament to Yonosuke's enduring influence.

The Last Adventure

Unwilling to wait idly for life's end, Yonosuke embarks on one final, audacious journey. Aboard a luxurious ship laden with delicacies, he sets sail with a few companions in search of a mythical island inhabited by enchanting women. This quest reflects Yonosuke's unquenchable thirst for pleasure and adventure, a fitting conclusion to a life spent in pursuit of earthly delights.