(Removed by reddit filters, reposting wothout a few key words)
I’m currently reading “The Devil’s Flute Murders” (Detective Kindaichi Mysteries), and one female character is missing the tip of her left pinky finger.
When questioned about it, she reveals she removed it herself and sent it to a man she loved before he shipped off for war. Both she and Kindaichi reference it as an old fashioned tradition, not often practiced anymore (1947 is when the story is set).
When I googled it, I only got references to the more widely known, infamous practice as a method of punishment/apology, nothing about this romantic/betrothal(?) version.
Can anybody tell me anymore about this practice or ritual in this context between romantic partners?
Thank you!
https://www.reddit.com/r/japan/comments/18s89up/question_about_old_tradition_of_romanticcourtship/