In Other Words, I Love You

The Details

Stitch Count: 67 high x 83 wide

Model was stitched on 32 count Wichelt White Chocolate linen, using two strands of floss over two strands of linen using full crosses and back stitch.

Single flower model stitched on 32 count Picture this Plus Pampas.

The Inspiration

“The moon is beautiful, isn't it?" This popular phrase is used in Japanese pop culture — and sometimes real life — as an indirect way of saying, "I love you." Sometimes heard in TV & movies, it's in anime & manga where it's really had a chance to shine.

Legend has it that while Natsume Sōseki was teaching English, a student of his rendered the English "I love you" into the Japanese Ware Kimi no Aiso. The famous novelist admonished his pupil, arguing that the Japanese would never express emotions so boldly, suggesting instead the indirect Tsuki ga kirei desu ne? It's worth noting that there's no record of this incident having occurred, but it has nonetheless become an enduring & endearing myth.

I hope that you enjoy the Light of the Moon Studios version, for which I've featured a less common translation, "The moon is lovely, isn't it?" — the version that I first encountered! — alongside the drifting cherry or sakura blossoms so emblematic of spring romance in Japan.