HHDeNi@aol.com wrote:

I'm trying to write a (one chapter thank the gods) fic, and
I would like to know what exactly Sepuku(did I spell that
right) entails.  I'm still writing the rest of my stuff,(if any of
you even remember it) but this is one of those ideas that
just won't let you go if you know what I mean.  Well anyway
that's it for now.

	Well, a lot depends on the who and why not to mention just how much
detail your looking for. Women have differing tradtions from men as do
samurai from peasants <that is, when it comes to striaght forward
suicide> Something I learned while writing Uses of the Knife <which I
got no responses on, sniffle... sniffle... end shameless plug> . Many
said a female couldn't open her belly, just her throat, then I found
that certain female warrior castes could and did.

	Then there's the issue of just how much detail you want to put in, did
you know a tanto couldn't be used for the act? Had to rewrite a few
paragraphs on that fumble. And finally, you've got to consider what's
good for the story. Ancient traditions and strict by-laws can be played
with if the impact of the story is at stake <that's why I had to find a
REASON for Ukyo to use a tanto>

	Seppukku has a long tradition, and is finely ingrained in the feel and
drama of the fuedal system established there. So of course, there's LOTS
of material to work with. Try writing the scene with what you know, test
it out for it's impact, then compare it to the texts and reposits of
Japanese knowledge, then you'll have a better understanding of what info
you need, and what your willing to flub on.

	Oh, and if anyone does know of an extensive online resource for this or
other Japanese traditions that make good fic basis or backgrounds,
please give it to the FAQ admistors as well as those who request it.
Helps cut down on the spam a bit if we have an alternate site to look.

	Final note, an extensive essay on this or other traditions <white day,
love motels, panty vendors... (ahem)> and how they can be used in fics
would be very welcomed.