Author
Where was the author born and when (just the year)?
Nagasaki, Japan in 1954
Describe the relationship between the narrator and his father. What is Kazuo Ishiguro telling us about the rising generation?
They seem separated not only by their age but also by their beliefs. Father is more traditional and believes in the Japanese tradition of honor suicide. Kazuo Ishiguro is telling us that in the current generation, traditions and culture are being lost.
Where did Ishiguro move to when he was 5, and how does this influence his writing?
Ishiguro moved to England at age 5, and claimed that his early works did not reflect Japanese writing, as they were based on "the image of his head" of Japan rather than the true color.
What is the name of the character who committed suicide, and what was his reason?
Watanabe was the father's partner who committed suicide because he felt responsible for the law firm's collapse.
"I can't see any ghosts, you were lying to me all that time."
Kikuko
What is the color of the mother's kimono? What could Kazuo Ishiguro be teling us about the mother?
White- This could mean that since she has died, she has been made pure or innocent, seeing as white often represents these ideals in most literature.
Double points if right. Lose double if wrong.
What was Kazuo Ishiguro's first novel?
A Pale View of Hills
Why did mother eat the fugu even though she said she wouldn't? What does this tell us about Kazuo Ishiguro's view of society?
She ate the fugu because she did not want to offend a school friend. One theme that this could bring out is that people should not always conform to society and their expectations because it may not benefit them.
What did father make a plastic model of and what is its significance?
If you get this question right, you may add points to your team or subtract them from another.
What and why does father say he would have rather done than sail? Do you agree with his thoughts? (opinionated)
He would rather fly an "aeroplane" because you always have a final weapon, implying a more active role in the fight rather than a ship, which is waiting to sink.
"If you wish to stay here, I mean here in this house you would be very welcome." Do you think that the narrator will want to stay? (opinionated).
Narrator's father.
I believe that the narrator will leave due to the ongoing tension between the narrator and his father, primarily because of their age and cultural differences.
In what season does this story take place, and what is significant about this?
Autumn. Often portrayed by changing leaves and weather, Autumn represents change. Many aspects of the narrator's life has changed, seeing as his mother has passed and he has finally returned home ot his family.