When Blossoms Fall - Quotes

“We’ve never had a chance to honour those who were sacrificed for the future of Japan.” (12)

This quote, spoken by Ken Tokugawa, encapsulates the complex emotions surrounding Japan's wartime past. It speaks to a sense of unaddressed grief and a yearning for recognition of the sacrifices made by those who fought in the war. The statement also carries a sense of romanticising the past, potentially overlooking the harsh realities of war and its consequences.    

The quote highlights the generational differences in the perception of national heroes and wartime sacrifices. For the older generation, who experienced the war firsthand, there is a profound sense of responsibility to remember and honour those who were lost. 

However, this perspective may not be shared by the younger generation, who have grown up in a different era and may have a different understanding of the war and its legacy. 

”’How can the next generation of Japanese make amends for the atrocities committed in the past if the previous generation continues to hide historical truth?’” (39-40)

This quote, attributed to Ms. M, a prominent Japanese feminist, underscores the challenges of addressing the legacy of war and the importance of truth-telling for healing and reconciliation. The statement suggests that the older generation's reluctance to confront the darker aspects of history hinders the younger generation's ability to understand and reconcile with the past.    

The quote also raises questions about the responsibility of acknowledging and making amends for past atrocities. It suggests that confronting the truth, even if it is painful, is essential for personal and collective healing and for fostering a more just and equitable future.

In the context of the story, these quotes shed light on the ongoing struggle to come to terms with Japan's wartime past and the complexities of intergenerational dialogue in addressing historical memory and responsibility. The first quote reflects a desire to honour past sacrifices while potentially overlooking the complexities and consequences of war. The second quote calls for transparency and truth-telling as a means of healing and reconciliation.    

The story also explores the themes of memory, trauma, and the impact of war on individuals and families across generations. The characters grapple with the weight of history, the challenges of confronting the past, and the complexities of navigating personal and collective identities in the aftermath of war.

The two quotes offer a glimpse into the multifaceted nature of historical memory and the challenges of addressing the legacy of war. They underscore the importance of open dialogue, truth-telling, and intergenerational understanding in fostering a deeper understanding of the past and promoting healing and reconciliation. The story serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of war and the importance of confronting historical truths in order to build a more just and peaceful future.

Exercise

1. Select a quotation from the text of When Blossoms Fall.

2. Present, analyse, and cite the quotation.

Remember:

• Be clear and concise in your analysis.

• Re-read your analysis to make sure it is easy for others to understand.

• Ask a classmate to review your work to ensure clarity and correctness.