In Praise of Shadows is a reflective essay on the aesthetic value of shadow in Japanese culture. Tanizaki contrasts the subtle, intimate beauty of shadows in traditional Japanese architecture and life with the bright, harsh light of Western modernization. He reflects on how light and shadow create atmosphere, depth, and mystery in daily life, art, and design. The essay also explores the philosophical and cultural significance of dim lighting, silence, and imperfection, embracing the Japanese appreciation for subtlety and restraint. Tanizaki’s musings offer insights into cultural differences, particularly the way East and West perceive beauty and the sensory world, emphasizing how sensory experiences shape our emotional and spiritual lives.