Chorus of Mushrooms - pages 179 to 225 (end)

Summary of pages 179 to 225 (end)

The final section of Chorus of Mushrooms brings together the various threads of the narrative, weaving together memory, identity, and intergenerational connection. Murasaki's journey of self-discovery continues as she navigates the complexities of adolescence and grapples with societal expectations and cultural pressures.

The Alice in Wonderland incident: Murasaki's experience of being cast as Alice in a school play highlights the challenges of fitting in and the pressure to conform to dominant cultural norms. The suggestion that she wear a blonde wig to portray Alice underscores the disconnect between her physical appearance and societal expectations of beauty.

Murasaki's first menstruation: This significant rite of passage is marked by a mixture of anxiety and excitement. Naoe's offering of sekihan, a traditional Japanese dish, symbolises the cyclical nature of life and the continuity of cultural traditions.

The "Multicultural Voices of Alberta" article: The family's inclusion in a local newspaper article further emphasises the theme of cultural identity and the complexities of navigating multiple cultural landscapes. The contrasting perspectives offered by Keiko, Murasaki, and Naoe highlight the diverse ways in which each family member perceives and expresses their cultural heritage.

Keiko's recovery and the postcard from Naoe: Keiko's gradual healing from her depression is symbolised by the arrival of a postcard from Naoe. This simple act of communication bridges the emotional distance between mother and daughter, reaffirming the enduring bonds of family.

The merging of voices and the enduring power of language: The narrative concludes with a sense of convergence as Murasaki and Naoe's voices and experiences intertwine. This merging of perspectives underscores the profound impact of heritage and the enduring power of language to connect generations and preserve cultural memory.

The ending of Chorus of Mushrooms is both poignant and hopeful, suggesting that while the journey of self-discovery and cultural adaptation is ongoing, the bonds of family and the power of storytelling provide a source of strength and resilience. The novel leaves the reader with a sense of the enduring legacy of the past and the potential for future generations to forge their own unique identities within a complex and ever-changing world.

Discussion questions for pages 179 to 225 (end)

1. Murasaki is asked to change her hair colour to blonde for a school play. How do you think this makes her feel? 

2. What does the newspaper article about the family reveal about Nikkei identity?

3. Compare a character from Chorus of Mushrooms to one from another Nikkei novel we've read. What does this reveal about Nikkei identity?