It might take some deep digging to find it again. Maybe @KEI can help
I found other archived posts from Yuichi Konno. The email magazine article is from a publication titled “Flash*Memory,” which is part of the broader “au revoir! PEYOTL” series. I have included chatGPT summaries
https://web.archive.org/web/20081208080634/http://www.melma.com:80/backnumber_17046_1391720/
Summary
This article is a contribution by Hiroshi Kobayashi to the newsletter or publication associated with Peyotl, a platform dedicated to cultural and literary discussions.
The text is a detailed reflection on the “angel” theme’s cultural impact in the early 1990s. Kobayashi discusses the surge in popularity of angel-themed books and music, highlighting significant publications and media influences. He shares his personal journey in compiling an extensive list of angel-related books, noting key contributions from various sources, including the works of Michel Serres, Malcolm Godwin, and the magazine “Yaso.”
Kobayashi emphasizes the role of “Peyotl Kobo,” a publisher known for its avant-garde and underground publications, in shaping his understanding and interest in the subject. He recounts his interactions with the publishing industry, including creating book lists and collaborating with bookstores for themed fairs.
The text also touches on the broader cultural phenomena of the time, including the influence of the anime “Neon Genesis Evangelion” and the resurgence of interest in ancient texts like the Dead Sea Scrolls. Kobayashi concludes by reflecting on the legacy of Peyotl Kobo and its enduring impact on readers and the cultural landscape.
https://web.archive.org/web/20090604091751/http://www.melma.com:80/backnumber_17046_1391750/
Summary
The article appears to be from a Japanese magazine or publication titled “Flash Memory,” authored by Yuichi Konno. It is issue no. 2, dated September 13, and features a piece titled “Twilight of the Departed”
In this piece, we observe Kazuo Ohno, a prominent figure in Butoh dance, being pushed in a wheelchair by Akira Kasai during a performance. Despite his age and physical limitations, Ohno’s movements are described as graceful and poignant, reminiscent of blooming lotus flowers. The performance is a tribute to Tatsumi Hijikata, the founder of Butoh, and it reflects on the history and evolution of the dance form.
The essay delves into the origins of Butoh, its key figures, and the diverse directions it has taken over time. It highlights the contributions of Hijikata and Ohno, their influence on the dance, and the various companies that have emerged from their legacy. The tension between preserving the essence of Butoh and allowing it to evolve is a central theme.
The text also mentions a memorial event for Hijikata featuring performances by Kasai and Ohno, and it reflects on the future of Butoh, pondering whether it should remain true to its roots or continue to adapt and transform. The author sees Ohno’s dance as a symbol of the ephemeral nature of Butoh, hinting at its eventual disappearance.
The piece concludes with information about upcoming performances and events related to Butoh and other avant-garde art forms.
https://web.archive.org/web/20110127182652/http://www.melma.com:80/backnumber_17046_1391760
Summary
This article was published in “au revoir! PEYOTL,” a publication or newsletter by Peyotl Kobo, on September 8, 2004. The article is labeled as [no.012] and authored by Yuichi Konno under the title “FLASH MEMORY.”
The article is about the closure of Aoyama Book Center, which the author learned about on the night of August 16. This news came as a shock, similar to the unexpected bankruptcy of the distributor Yanagihara. Yanagihara’s collapse was due to inflating inventory on paper, resulting in real losses when they went bankrupt. The closure of Aoyama Book Center also seemed abrupt, with creditors like Kurita aggressively liquidating assets and withdrawing books from stores. The creditors’ meeting on August 6 was unclear, with no transparent explanation from Aoyama Book Center’s president, Isogai, about the store’s financial troubles.
Aoyama Book Center’s financial woes were primarily due to real estate debts, despite the bookstore itself being profitable. The support for the bookstore’s revival is coming from Youhan, led by Kagawa Hiroshi, who has a history of managing bookstore chains and acquisitions. The future of mid-sized bookstores like Aoyama Book Center is uncertain, and their survival is crucial for smaller publishers.
The author’s publication, Yaso, heavily relied on Aoyama Book Center for sales. The closure impacts its sales and future issues. The author emphasizes the importance of dedicated bookstore staff for sales, rather than store size or location. The article concludes with updates on upcoming releases and events for Yaso, reflecting on the significant influence of individual efforts and sincere business practices in the current publishing industry.
