Assignment 2- Symbols in 'An Artist of the Floating World'

This blog is part of an assignment for sub. code- 22400 Paper 107: The Twentieth Century Literature: From World War II to the End of the Century.

Introduction

Kazuo Ishiguro's "An Artist of the Floating World" stands as a profound exploration of memory, guilt, and cultural identity in post-war Japan. Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing society, the novel is replete with symbols that enrich the reader's understanding of the narrative and deepen its thematic resonance. This assignment will delve into the symbols present in the novel, analyzing their significance in shaping the themes and characters.

The Floating World

The term "floating world," or ukiyo in Japanese, traditionally referred to the transient and hedonistic pleasure districts of pre-war Japan. In Ishiguro's novel, the floating world serves as a multifaceted symbol, representing both nostalgia for a bygone era and a longing for a return to traditional values. For the protagonist Masuji Ono, a former artist of the floating world, it evokes memories of a vibrant and carefree past, a world of beauty and pleasure that has been irrevocably altered by the ravages of war. However, the floating world also symbolizes the ephemeral nature of life and the impermanence of human endeavor, highlighting the fragility of cultural identity in the face of societal upheaval.

The Bridge

The bridge that spans the river between the pleasure district of Asakusa and the more modernized areas of Tokyo serves as a powerful symbol of transition and transformation. As Ono crosses the bridge, he traverses not only physical space but also the boundaries between the old and the new, tradition and modernity. The bridge becomes a metaphorical threshold between Ono's past as a celebrated artist of the floating world and his present as a discredited figure grappling with the consequences of his actions. It symbolizes the passage of time and the shifting currents of history, as well as the inevitability of change in a society in flux.

The Garden

The garden at Sasaki's villa represents a sanctuary of beauty, tranquility, and harmony amidst the chaos and destruction of war. It serves as a refuge for Ono and his companions, a place of respite where they can escape the harsh realities of the outside world. The garden symbolizes Ono's idealized vision of Japan's cultural heritage, a bastion of tradition and aesthetic purity in a rapidly modernizing society. However, beneath its serene surface lies a darker reality, as the garden harbors hidden secrets and buried memories that resurface over the course of the novel. It becomes a site of reflection and revelation for Ono, as he confronts the ghosts of his past and grapples with the consequences of his actions.

The Painting

Throughout the novel, Ono's paintings serve as powerful symbols of his artistic talent and his role in shaping Japan's cultural identity. Ono's earlier works, with their romanticized depictions of geishas, traditional landscapes, and scenes from the floating world, represent his allegiance to the ideals of beauty and harmony. However, as Ono's political views evolve and he becomes disillusioned with the nationalist fervor of pre-war Japan, his paintings take on a more ambiguous and haunting quality. The painting of the burning house, in particular, becomes a powerful symbol of Ono's guilt and remorse, a reminder of the destructive consequences of his past actions. Through his art, Ono grapples with the complexities of memory and identity, seeking redemption for his past sins while also acknowledging the irreversibility of his actions.

The Masks

Masks are a recurring motif in "An Artist of the Floating World," symbolizing the facade of respectability and conformity that masks the darker truths lurking beneath the surface. Ono and his fellow artists wear masks of civility and politeness in public, concealing their true thoughts and feelings from others. However, as Ono reflects on his past and confronts the consequences of his actions, the masks begin to slip, revealing the hidden desires and vulnerabilities of the characters. The masks become symbols of the masks we all wear in society, hiding our true selves from others and from ourselves. They also serve as a reminder of the fluidity of identity and the complexities of human nature, as characters grapple with questions of morality, responsibility, and self-perception. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kazuo Ishiguro's "An Artist of the Floating World" is a masterful exploration of memory, guilt, and cultural identity, rich in symbolism and thematic resonance. From the floating world to the bridge, the garden, the painting, and the masks, each symbol serves to deepen the reader's engagement with the narrative and provoke reflection on the complexities of human experience. Through the lens of these symbols, Ishiguro invites readers to confront the legacy of Japan's wartime past and the enduring power of memory to shape individual and collective identity. By unraveling these symbols, readers gain insight into the profound depths of Ishiguro's storytelling and the timeless relevance of his work in exploring the human condition.

References:

Ishiguro, Kazuo. "An Artist of the Floating World." Vintage Books, 1986.

Words: 840