Talking Hair : Asian Studies

Edited by Alf Hiltebeiterl and Barbara D. Miler, Foreword by Gananath Obeyesekere

This is a book that is focused on myths and historical theories regarding hair in Japan and other Asian Cultures.  There are very few photos and the ones that do exist are black and white.

This is a fascinating book that provides a lot of insight into modern thoughts and practices regarding hair.  Chapter 4 lists the following Proverbs and Practices regarding hair from the 19th and 20th centuries.  Some of the proverbs and practices include the following:

• People with thinning hair have bad luck.
• People with thick hair will suffer in life.
• If you burn your hair, you will go crazy.
• For a woman, long hair hides 7 defects.
• Burning human hair will ward off dangerous animals.

All of the various proverbs listed above are explored and discussed in great detail in this book.  Many Oriental hair practices, rituals and religious beliefs are exploded in this 286+ page book.

I personally found the book fascinating and full in interesting historical facts.  It is definitely not a book about fashion, hairstyles or any beauty practices except from a historical or religious practice.

I would recommend buying this book if you have a strong historical interest in hair.  Otherwise, you will be disappointed  in this $21.95 book.

Buy The Book

Paperback: 297 pages
Publisher: State University of New York Press (May 1, 1998)
ISBN: 0791437426