I love the world that Golden has created with regards to Japan prior to the outbreak of World War II. I find his language beautiful and easy to understand as well.
I was heart broken when Satsu and Chiyo were separated, and that Satsu was forced into prostitution. I have to comment on the sheer contrast between prostitution and being a geisha. While Satsu is forced to have sex, Chiyo is sent into a okiya to study to become a Geisha, a woman who is desired for her beauty and artistic abilities. While I'm not sure yet if they have sex with the men they entertain, they both are in the business of pleasure, yet with different ways of being treated.
I think their father honestly thought their lives would be better, I don't think he expected them to be sold into such conditions. But life was rough in rural Japan, especially for women. When he died they most likely wouldn't have inherited anything, and they would have starved or ended up being prostitutes anyway. Not that this condones his actions, but they were the actions of a desperate father.
Hatsumomo is a horrible person right down to her core, and the way she treats Chiyo is abhorrent. I think it was cruel of her to manipulate Chiyo into ruining the kimono, causing her to be disgraced and to become a mere maid in the okiya. For someone that age to learn that they owe payment to debts must be devastating. Not only does she have to pay for food, but now she has to pay back the money for the lessons she took, her schooling, and being bought in the first place.
I think this is a beautiful story, and I'm so intrigued to continue! I love this time period, and I have always been fascinated by Japanese culture. Kudos Katie for a wonderful read!! <3
I agree about the father. I think he would have thought their lives would be better if they weren't living at home any longer. Chiyo's realization of how Mr. Tanaka really was broke my heart a little bit. It's so sad to see a little girl's hopes crushed.
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