Chapter 24 Analysis

The Empress Akikonomu sends Murasaki a gift of arranged autumn leaves and flowers in an ornate box and Murasaki is very grateful for the gift. In fact, she wants to return the favor by showing the empress her spring garden. Hearing of Murasaki's plan, Genji agrees to it, but he knows that an empress cannot make casual visits. Genji creates a grand spectacle for the empress and her attendants so that she will be suitably honored and impressed by her reception at Genji's home.

Meanwhile, Tamakazura and Murasaki strike up a friendship, though Tamakazura is not yet sure if she can trust Murasaki, since she has been badly treated through the years. In fact, several men hear of Tamakazura and eagerly pursue her, but Genji carefully wards them off. To make matters worse, Tamakazura's suitors even include To no Chujo's sons, who do...