The Words of the Samurai - Episode 13

A Worthy Opponent: The Pleasure of Facing True Strength

In our last episode, we highlighted the noble and idealistic side of Uesugi Kenshin — the warlord who famously sent salt to his rival out of fairness, embodying the principle of “justice beyond power”.

But as we hinted, history isn’t shaped by ideals alone. Kenshin, like any real person, had many sides — some admirable, others more complex. In this week’s entry, we revisit the “Dragon of Echigo” to reveal a different side of his legacy, as captured by the sharp, provocative voice of author Sakaguchi Ango.

Ango challenges our notions of “honor,” suggesting that behind noble causes often lies a raw enjoyment of war. It’s a bold perspective, but one that forces us to question not just Kenshin’s image, but the very nature of those who live for the battlefield.

Uesugi Kagekatsu and the Heritage of Uesugi Kenshin

In his novel “A Second-Rate Man”, author Sakaguchi Ango (1906-1955) depicts the “Tiger of Echigo,” Uesugi Kenshin, in harsh terms:
“He talks about noble causes and imperial loyalty, but it’s all nonsense. What he really loves is the thrill of battle.”
He even calls Kenshin and his disciple Uesugi Kagekatsu members of the “decadent war faction,” who use justice as an excuse to enjoy war.

This opinion isn’t popular among Kenshin enthusiasts. Still, the Uesugi clan may have had such a side. A story about Kenshin’s heir, Uesugi Kagekatsu, illustrates this.

During the siege of rebel Shibata Shigeie’s castle, a retainer captured enemy soldiers and reported, “They were trying to bring food into the fortress.”
Kagekatsu is said to have replied:

“It’s easy to kill them, but that would be immature. Spare them, give them the supplies, and let them go back inside. Beating a strong enemy—that’s what really feels good.”

Like Kenshin and Kanetsugu, Kagekatsu seemed to find a kind of pleasure in warfare.

Ironically, once the soldiers returned to their stronghold, their comrades suspected them of being spies for Kagekatsu and killed them.

Uesugi Kagekatsu, the spiritual successor to Uesugi Kenshin, gives us a candid look at a lesser-acknowledged yet profoundly sincere side of the samurai mindset: the desire to fight strong enemies, not necessarely out of cruelty, but to make victory truly worthwhile. His words express pride and determination, reflecting a warrior’s code.

Once again, the samurai spirit reminds us that honour isn’t always noble and clean — it’s complicated, demanding, and deeply human.