Overcoming the Modern - Kawabata's 'Yukiguni' Essay

Overcoming the Modern - Kawabatas Yukiguni - Essay Example246). A relish interest between rich Tokyo dilettante, Shimamura, and a young geisha, Komako, is the main story of the novel. However, cultural symbolism weave in the plot of the story makes it look like a Japanese puzzle. It is both interesting to direct and complex to understand all the meanings of writers cultural riddles. One has to be well mindful of Japanese cultural nuances to accept Kawabatas book as easy reading of a love story. Romantic relationship is not the main idea the writer wants to express. thither be much more(prenominal) issues of cultural identity which are raised in this literary work.To understand and appreciate Kawabatas Yukiguni a reader has to be competent in Japanese culture and literature enough. Also difference in mentality and perceptions of Japanese and Western culture might influence on understanding Kawabatas work. There is no wonder in different interpretations of the main messages mean ing, because Kawabata characters are determined by forces so all beyond their control that these characters typically appear to the Western reader almost pathologically passive and unstable (Pollack, 102). At the same time, however, life and human relationships in different cultures are much alike. There is no wonder that a non-Japanese reader will associate himself/herself with Shimamura or Komato.Furthermore, most of Kawabatas works are claimed to be plotless. Reading Snow Country requires some meditation and contemplation. Otherwise, the reader might lose not only interest, but complete understanding of the essence of this book. Having enough knowledge about Japan and its culture, angiotensin converting enzyme has to be able to read between the lines to understand Japaneseness of Kawabatas novel. According to Pollack, Japanese writers work is based on Tanabata legend (misfortunate astral lover who are