Japanese key terms explained!

I want to start a small series of posts on this blog. The purpose of this series will be to discuss Japanese culture, in particular key terms that relate to Japanese culture.

I'll give an short introduction as to what the term means followed by a little analysis. The intent is to be provocative, amusing, and informative. Not necessarily in that order. I'll then give some quotes from around the Internet, when possible, followed by come short comments. I hope to do this at least once a week, more if possible. Unless I give up quickly, like after the next post. 

Please comment on these posts if possible. The post after this will be the first in this series.