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LAW AND ORDER IN THE CASTLE TOWN OF OLD SHURI

The Satsuma overlords maintained island tranquillity by force. This was accomplished by ensuring that local territorial administrators adhered to severe routine policies. Moreover, the Satsuma rearranged the class system in an effort to control the family lineages of the kemochi, and established an official department to record such information. However, together with the cumulative effects of feudalism, their efforts proved ineffective. It was during this time that King Shoko composed his satirical poem.

Poem:

Kamishimuya tsumete nakaya kuratatete

ubaitoru uchiyu usamigurisha

Shoko-O (King Shoko, 1787-1833)

Translation:

How poor and frugal both the upper and lower classes are now, in spite of a flourishing middle class. Ruling, during these unstable times, is so difficult.

Interpretation:

Kamishimuya refers to both the upper- and lower-classes of Okinawan people, while nakaya refers to the middle class. Composed by King Shoko, the poem aptly describes the dwindling condition of the kingdom, and his melancholy.