An Artist of the Floating World

Understanding Kazuo Ishiguro’s "An Artist of the Floating World" Through Key Discussions

As part of our study on Kazuo Ishiguro’s An Artist of the Floating World, this blog is a flipped learning task assigned by Prof. Dilip Barad Sir, Here is the link for the background of task- Research Article or Professor's Blog. Below, you will find a series of videos that delve into essential aspects of the text, including the author’s background, the significance of the title, character analysis, narrative strategy, major themes, and important passages.

Video- 1| About the Author - Kazuo Ishiguro

Kazuo Ishiguro, born on November 8, 1954, in Nagasaki, Japan, is a British novelist who moved to Britain with his family in 1960 and was raised there. Knighted in Britain, he is known as Sir Kazuo Ishiguro and is recognized as a Japanese-born British writer. His works are distinguished by a blend of regret and subtle optimism, often exploring themes of memory and nostalgia. His narratives delve into the complexities of human emotions and the passage of time, making him a significant voice in contemporary literature.

A recurring theme in Ishiguro’s works is the role of memory, personal and historical, and the way past regrets shape an individual’s present. His characters often begin by reflecting on their past with pride, only to later grapple with feelings of remorse. Unlike the outright pessimism of George Orwell’s "1984", Ishiguro’s works maintain a subtle sense of hope, even when they confront regret and lost opportunities. His exploration of nostalgia and self-reflection gives his narratives a poignant and deeply introspective quality.

Ishiguro’s literary achievements were globally recognized when he won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2017. The Nobel committee praised his ability to "Uncover the abyss beneath our illusory sense of connection with the world", highlighting how his writing exposes the hollowness behind human relationships, particularly in the digital age. His exploration of alienation and emotional distance resonates with readers who experience the fragility of human connection.

Educated at the University of Kent, where he earned a BA in 1978, and the University of East Anglia, where he completed an MA, Ishiguro initially worked at a homeless charity while pursuing writing in his spare time. He gained recognition after contributing three short stories to the anthology "Introduction 7: Stories by New Writers" (1981). His debut novel, "A Pale View of Hills" (1982), centered on post-war memories and depicted a Japanese woman coping with her daughter’s suicide, establishing Ishiguro’s talent for exploring psychological depth and emotional complexity.

One of his notable works, "An Artist of the Floating World" (1986), is set in post-World War II Japan, a country undergoing rapid Westernization and Americanization. The novel follows Masuji Ono, an aging political artist who once created imperialist propaganda during the war. In his later years, he revisits his past choices, questioning the impact of his work and grappling with his own moral responsibility. The novel employs an unreliable narrator, as Ono’s recollections are shaped by bias and selective memory, challenging the reader to interpret the truth behind his shifting perspectives.

Although Ishiguro was born in Japan, his upbringing in Britain positions him as an outsider looking back at Japan. This perspective is similar to that of other diaspora writers who explore their homelands from afar, such as Salman Rushdie, V.S. Naipaul, Mohsin Hamid, Jhumpa Lahiri, and various authors from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka also. Unlike native Japanese writers, who may critique his portrayal of Japan, Ishiguro provides a unique, detached viewpoint that allows him to examine aspects of Japanese culture that insiders might overlook. His outsider perspective grants his works a sense of objectivity while also reflecting a longing for cultural roots.

The theme of cultural uprootedness is central to Ishiguro’s writing. When individuals are separated from their homeland, they often develop a deep craving for identity and belonging. Ishiguro’s works embody this sentiment, as he navigates Japanese culture from a distance, aligning with diaspora literature’s themes of alienation and nostalgia. His novels explore the tension between past and present, belonging and displacement, making them particularly relevant to discussions on cultural identity.

A unique comparison can be drawn between Ishiguro’s outsider perspective and the character PK from the film PK. Just as PK, an alien outsider, observes human culture with a detached yet insightful gaze, Ishiguro’s position as a British-Japanese writer allows him to examine Japan from a nuanced perspective. His storytelling not only bridges cultures but also offers profound reflections on memory, identity, and the ways in which history continues to shape individual lives.

Video- 2| Title of the novel "An Artist of the Floating World"

• Introduction

Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel, An Artist of the Floating World, intricately explores the themes of memory, art, personal responsibility, and societal transformation in post-World War II Japan. The title itself holds significant meaning, encapsulating the impermanence of societal values and personal legacies. By delving deeper into the layers of this title, one can gain a better understanding of the novel’s intricate narrative and the internal struggles of its protagonist, Masuji Ono. His journey reflects not only the shifting cultural landscape of Japan but also the broader philosophical questions surrounding an individual’s place in history.

• The Dual Meaning of “Floating World”

The phrase "floating world" (Ukiyo) in the novel’s title carries multiple interpretations, both in a historical artistic context and as a metaphor for societal change.

➺ Ukiyo-e: The Art of the Floating World

The term "floating world" originates from Japan’s Edo period (1603–1868) and is closely associated with Ukiyo-e, a popular art form that depicted urban pleasures, entertainment districts, geishas, kabuki actors, and transient beauty. This artistic style celebrated life’s fleeting joys, emphasizing the impermanence of human existence.

In the novel, Masuji Ono initially trains under Seiji Moriyama, a master artist dedicated to capturing the pleasures of nightlife in traditional Ukiyo-e style. Ono’s early work reflects the ideals of the floating world, focusing on themes of beauty, celebration, and transitory experiences. However, his artistic philosophy undergoes a dramatic transformation as he begins to align himself with Japan’s rising nationalism and imperialist ambitions.

➺ Metaphor for a Changing Society

Beyond its literal artistic reference, the floating world serves as a powerful metaphor for Japan’s societal transformation after World War II. The war’s outcome forces the country to redefine its identity, shifting away from imperialist militarism toward Westernization and modernization. Ono’s personal journey mirrors this transition- his former nationalist contributions, once celebrated, are now viewed with shame and criticism.

The novel presents a thought-provoking parallel between the transience of art and the impermanence of political ideologies, suggesting that no belief system remains dominant forever. Ishiguro uses the floating world as an overarching symbol of the fragile nature of power, pride, and cultural values.

• Masuji Ono’s Artistic Evolution

Masuji Ono’s career arc provides an insightful study of how an artist’s work can be influenced by political and ideological forces. His transformation from a traditional artist to a nationalist propagandist raises ethical concerns about the role of art in shaping public consciousness.

➺ From Pleasure to Propaganda

Ono initially embraces the aesthetics of the floating world, painting scenes that celebrate urban leisure and nightlife. However, as nationalist fervor grows, he abandons his artistic roots under the influence of figures like Chisu Matsuda, a fervent nationalist. Ono’s work begins to glorify militarism and Japan’s imperial expansion, aligning with the propaganda machine that justified the country’s aggressive wartime policies.

This shift highlights the dangerous potential of art as a tool for political manipulation. Ono’s story serves as a cautionary tale, demonstrating how artists can become complicit in shaping destructive ideologies when they allow external influences to dictate their creative direction.

➺ Post-War Reflection and Regret

After Japan’s defeat, Ono faces an uncomfortable reckoning with his past. The once-praised nationalist art he created is now rejected by society, forcing him to reflect on the moral implications of his contributions. His self-image as an artist of great influence is shaken, and he begins to question the true impact of his work on Japan’s war efforts.

This period of introspection reveals the fragility of reputation and the lasting effects of one’s choices. Ishiguro presents Ono’s struggle as a universal dilemma- how does an individual come to terms with past decisions that no longer align with society’s evolving values?

• The Unreliable Narrator: Memory and Self-Perception

Ono’s selective retelling of events shapes the novel’s complex narrative, emphasizing the fallibility of memory and self-perception.

➺ Selective Memory

Throughout the novel, Ono downplays his complicity in Japan’s militaristic agenda, presenting his actions in a way that suggests he was merely a well-intentioned patriot. His omissions and revisions of the past indicate that he is unable or unwilling to fully confront his mistakes.

This distorted recollection serves as a defense mechanism, allowing Ono to maintain his sense of dignity while avoiding direct accountability. However, as the novel progresses, subtle contradictions emerge, suggesting that his perception of his influence may be exaggerated or self-serving.

➺ Self-Delusion and Realization

As other characters challenge Ono’s version of events, it becomes clear that his memories are unreliable. The perspectives of his daughters, former colleagues, and societal changes all paint a different picture of his past, exposing the self-delusions that he clings to.

This narrative strategy invites the reader to question the nature of truth is Ono’s story a genuine reflection of his past, or is he subtly reshaping reality to protect his ego? Ishiguro masterfully uses this narrative ambiguity to explore the psychological impact of regret and aging.

• The Role of the Artist in Society

Ishiguro raises important philosophical questions about an artist’s responsibility to society and the long-term consequences of creative expression.

➺ Artistic Responsibility

Ono’s journey illustrates the power artists wield in shaping cultural and political narratives. His involvement in propaganda art exemplifies how creative works can be used as ideological weapons, influencing public perception and justifying dangerous policies.

The novel challenges the reader to consider:

    1. Should artists remain politically neutral, or do they have an obligation to engage with societal issues?

    2. When does artistic influence become dangerous or unethical?

    3. Can an artist separate their work from its historical consequences?

➺ Legacy and Relevance

As post-war Japan undergoes modernization, Ono’s work is increasingly viewed as outdated and problematic. His former prestige disappears, and he struggles to understand how history has reshaped his artistic legacy.

This shifting perception raises a profound question- how does time alter the meaning and value of art? Ishiguro suggests that art is not static; its interpretation changes based on historical context and societal values. Ono’s story reflects the ephemeral nature of artistic influence, reinforcing the novel’s overarching theme of transience.

• Conclusion

Through its exploration of memory, responsibility, and the impermanence of societal values, An Artist of the Floating World offers a deeply introspective reading experience. Ishiguro masterfully weaves these themes through Ono’s unreliable narration, encouraging readers to engage in a critical examination of history and personal accountability.

The novel serves as both a historical reflection on post-war Japan and a universal meditation on the moral obligations of artists. It ultimately invites readers to consider their own perceptions of truth, legacy, and the shifting tides of cultural history proving that no artist, or ideology, remains untouched by time.

Video-3| Characters and Narrative Strategy

In the video analyzing Kazuo Ishiguro's novel "An Artist of the Floating World," several critical insights and points are presented that delve deeply into the narrative structure, character dynamics, and overarching themes. The protagonist, Masuji Ono, functions as both the main character and narrator, embodying the concept of the unreliable narrator- a hallmark of post-modern literature. This narrative choice raises compelling questions about the authenticity of his recollections and the truth of his artistic legacy. 

The complexity of the characters is vividly illustrated through their interrelationships. Ono’s daughter, Setsuko, is particularly concerned about the family reputation and the marriage prospects of her sister, Noriko. This family tension is exacerbated by Noriko's failed engagement, which serves as a focal point for the family's anxieties. Ichiro, Setsuko's son, symbolizes a new Americanized generation, showcasing an interest in Western culture through his fascination with Hollywood and cartoons. Another essential character is Seiji Moriyama, Ono’s teacher, who represents traditional artistry and expresses disapproval of Ono's shift towards nationalism, reflecting the broader societal changes in post-war Japan. Kuroda, Ono's promising student, becomes a tragic figure whose downfall demonstrates the severe consequences of Ono's past actions, while Chizu Matsuda, an influential nationalist figure, encourages Ono's art to serve political purposes, highlighting the intersection of art and ideology.

The narrative employs a first-person perspective that reinforces the theme of unreliability. Ono’s digressive storytelling style mirrors his attempts to navigate and often hide the truth about his past and the moral implications of his work. The plot begins with Ono purchasing an expensive house, which initially suggests a successful artistic legacy, but soon reveals the central conflict surrounding the family's concerns about Noriko's marriage, heavily influenced by Ono’s controversial past as a nationalist artist.

Themes in the novel are multifaceted, particularly the complexities surrounding art, which Ishiguro examines through various lenses: art for aesthetic pleasure, art as a business commodity, art aligned with nationalism, and the use of art to address social issues, such as poverty. Regret and reflection are prevalent, with Ono grappling with the repercussions of his past decisions on his family and society. The contrast between Ono’s traditional nationalist views and the younger generation’s emerging American influences signifies a cultural transformation in the aftermath of World War II.

Ultimately, the narrative concludes with a cautious optimism, as Ono reflects on the younger generation's potential to rectify past mistakes. His journey encapsulates a broader commentary on identity, responsibility, and the legacy of nationalism in a rapidly evolving world. Overall, the video offers a comprehensive analysis of the characters, themes, and narrative techniques employed by Ishiguro, illuminating the intricate relationships and societal critiques woven throughout the fabric of the novel.

Video-4| Thematic Concerns

The video provides an in-depth analysis of Kazuo Ishiguro's novel "An Artist of the Floating World," focusing on its intricate themes and narrative structure. It begins by unpacking the significance of the title, which reflects the protagonist Masuji Ono’s internal struggle. Ono expresses a desire to transcend being merely an "artist of the floating world," aspiring instead to represent marginalized voices, particularly the poor. This aspiration highlights his conflict between artistic integrity and the pressures of nationalism and commercialism, as he also finds himself involved in painting for business firms driven solely by profit.

The narrative is delivered through a first-person unreliable narrator, raising critical questions about the nature of truth in storytelling. Ono's perspective is inherently flawed, as he navigates his memories and regrets, particularly concerning his youthful enthusiasm for nationalism and its accompanying imperialistic tendencies. This creates a tension between what he perceives as his artistic legacy and the reality of his declining reputation.

The plot centers on the tense marriage negotiations for Ono’s daughter, Norika. This subplot serves as a lens through which the novel explores societal expectations in traditional Japanese culture, where a woman's marriage prospects heavily influence family honor. As the story unfolds, Ono reflects on his past glory as a celebrated artist, yet he is ultimately revealed to be a figure of disdain among some former students, illustrating the complexities of his character and the regrets about his decisions during Japan’s militaristic past.

The video identifies four distinct roles of art explored in the novel: art for aesthetic delight, art for business, art serving nationalistic interests, and art aimed at helping the poor. The discussion emphasizes that while art can fulfill these diverse roles, it becomes problematic when it turns into a tool for hegemonic influence or propaganda, particularly in a nationalistic context.

Intergenerational conflict is another prominent theme in the video. It contrasts Ono’s traditional, nationalist views with the more Westernized outlook of his grandson Ichiro, who aspires to a modern, consumerist lifestyle rather than adhering to the values of honor and sacrifice that characterized Ono's generation. This generational divide is emblematic of broader cultural shifts in post-war Japan, where younger individuals increasingly distance themselves from the burdens of their ancestors' decisions and ideologies.

Grief is explored as a multifaceted theme, with Ono grappling with the loss of loved ones during the war. The video outlines three forms of grief he experiences: the unexpected loss of family members, the timely death of a friend like Matsuda, and the complex grief associated with betrayal, particularly regarding his relationship with his students. These losses contribute to Ono’s unreliable narration, as he struggles to cope with these emotional wounds and often resorts to fabricating stories to justify or reinterpret his past choices.

The theme of pedagogy is also examined, highlighting the paradoxical relationship between teachers and their students. Ono’s experiences as both a student and a teacher reveal that while educators wish for their students' success, they also desire to maintain a level of control and dependency. This dynamic presents a challenge in fostering genuine growth and independence in students, emphasizing the need for flexibility and openness in educational relationships.

Finally, the video discusses the theme of marriage within the context of traditional Japanese society. It notes the societal pressures surrounding marriage negotiations and how these conventions resonate with contemporary issues. The portrayal of marriage becomes a microcosm for examining broader cultural values and the persistence of traditional practices in modern contexts.

In conclusion, the video encapsulates the complexity and depth of the themes presented in Ishiguro's work. It invites viewers to reflect on the relevance of these themes in today’s society, including issues of identity, artistic integrity, intergenerational conflict, and the nuanced nature of grief and memory. The discussion ends with an open invitation for questions, underscoring the richness of the text and its potential for further exploration.

Video-5| Reading Important Passages from the Novel

• Introduction to the Novel and Its Structure

Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel An Artist of the Floating World is divided into four distinct sections: 

    October 1948

    April 1949

    November 1949

    June 1950

Unlike traditional chapters, these sections represent different stages in the protagonist Masuji Ono’s reflections on his past. The novel is set in post-World War II Japan, a time of immense social and political change following Japan’s defeat and surrender to the Allied forces. The devastation caused by the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki forced Japan into a new era, marked by American influence, democratization, and the rejection of imperialist ideology.

As the story unfolds, Ono, a former artist who once created propaganda paintings in support of Japanese nationalism, struggles with his changing reputation. While he once considered his work noble and important, he is now forced to confront the consequences of his artistic and ideological choices. The novel presents themes of memory, regret, generational conflict, and the role of artists in shaping history. The speaker in the video highlights how Ishiguro uses Ono’s unreliable narration to explore these complex themes, making it difficult for the reader to discern whether Ono is truly repentant or simply trying to preserve his dignity.

• Masuji Ono as an Unreliable Narrator

One of the most striking aspects of Ishiguro’s novel is its use of an unreliable narrator. Masuji Ono frequently addresses an unspecified “you”, directly engaging the reader in his storytelling. This narrative technique creates an intimate yet questionable dynamic, as Ono appears to be justifying his past actions rather than providing an objective account of history.

➺ Excerpt from the Novel:

"If on a sunny day you climb the hill... you will find yourself gazing at a cityscape that has changed little in many years."

 

This passage is one of many where Ono presents an idyllic version of his surroundings, attempting to portray stability in a world that is rapidly changing. However, the video discussion points out that this romanticized view of the cityscape contrasts with the reality of post-war Japan, where entire cities were devastated, and society was undergoing a profound transformation. The speaker references Wayne C. Booth’s theory of unreliable narration, explaining that Ono’s selective memory, contradictions, and omissions make his version of events highly questionable.

Furthermore, the repeated use of the word “you” in the novel appearing over 1,100 times suggests that Ono is constantly seeking validation. He wants the reader, or perhaps an imagined listener, to see him as a wise and honorable man. This reinforces the theme of self-deception, as Ono is unwilling or unable to fully acknowledge his complicity in Japan’s wartime ideology.

• Betrayal of Kuroda and Its Consequences

A key event in the novel, and one that haunts Ono, is his betrayal of his former student, Kuroda. As a young artist, Kuroda had opposing views from Ono and was involved in modernist and progressive artistic movements that conflicted with the nationalist agenda. Ono, believing that Kuroda’s work was unpatriotic, reported him to the Committee on Unpatriotic Activities, leading to Kuroda’s arrest, imprisonment, and professional ruin.

➺ Excerpt from the Novel:

"I freely admit that I made many mistakes; I accept that much of what I did was ultimately harmful to our nation."

At first glance, this statement seems to indicate that Ono acknowledges his past errors. However, the discussion in the video highlights how his admission is vague and lacks sincerity. He does not explicitly mention Kuroda’s name, nor does he fully take responsibility for the harm his actions caused. Instead, the statement serves as a way to present himself as a reflective and honorable figure rather than someone who actively contributed to the suppression of dissent.

This moment in the novel raises a broader question about how individuals remember and justify their actions after historical events have reshaped public perception. Is Ono truly remorseful, or is he simply trying to preserve his reputation in a changed society?

• The Generational Conflict: Setsuko and Noriko’s Perspectives

Throughout the novel, Ishiguro explores the tension between generations—those who once supported Japan’s militarist expansion and those who must now live with its consequences. This generational conflict is evident in Ono’s relationships with his daughters, Setsuko and Noriko.

During Noriko’s Miai (pre-marriage meeting) with the Saito family, Ono becomes increasingly aware that his past could be affecting his daughter’s prospects. He senses that the Saito family may be hesitant to associate with him due to his past nationalist affiliations.

➺ Excerpt from the Novel:

Setsuko: 

"You must stop believing that you have done some great wrong."

Ono:

"There are some who would say it is people like myself who are responsible for the terrible things that happened to our nation."

This conversation highlights a crucial aspect of Ono’s character, his inability to determine whether he should feel guilty or not. Setsuko’s comment may be an attempt to reassure her father, but it also suggests that Ono harbors guilt even if he does not fully admit it.

The discussion in the video further explains how this reflects a broader post-war dilemma. Many older Japanese citizens who supported imperialism were now being criticized or ignored by the younger generation, which sought to move forward and distance itself from past mistakes.

• The Role of Art: From Ukiyo-e to Nationalist Propaganda

Ono’s transition from a traditional Ukiyo-e artist to a nationalist painter is a key theme in the novel. Initially, Ono was trained by Seiji Moriyama, who encouraged him to paint scenes of the “floating world”, depicting pleasure-seeking urban life. However, under the influence of Matsuda, Ono abandoned this style to create propaganda paintings supporting militarism and war.

➺ Excerpt from the Novel:

"No time for cowardly talking. Japan must go forward."

One of Ono’s most famous works, "Eyes to the Horizon", originally titled "Complacency", underwent a radical transformation. What once depicted poverty and social injustice was altered to glorify war and national pride. The discussion in the video emphasizes how this shift reflects the manipulation of art for political purposes, raising ethical questions about the responsibilities of artists in shaping public consciousness.

• The Final Conversation with Matsuda – Reflection and Regret

In Ono’s final conversation with his nationalist mentor, Matsuda, both men express regret for their past ambitions.

➺ Excerpt from the Novel:

"It seems in the end neither of us had a broad enough view."

This moment serves as a final acknowledgment that their artistic and ideological pursuits ultimately amounted to nothing. Matsuda, once a fervent nationalist, now laments their choices, realizing that Japan has moved on without them.

The discussion in the video compares this moment to modern political movements, such as Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again”, illustrating how nostalgia for a previous era often leads to disillusionment when the world has irrevocably changed.

• Conclusion

The novel ends ambiguously, leaving readers to question how much of Ono’s story can truly be trusted. Through its exploration of unreliable memory, artistic responsibility, and generational conflict, An Artist of the Floating World forces readers to consider the long-term consequences of ideological choices. Ultimately, Ishiguro presents a deeply introspective narrative that resonates far beyond its historical setting.

Reference:

Barad, Dilip. An Artist of the Floating World: Flipped Learning Activity Worksheet. ResearchGate, 2024. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/389464662_An_Artist_of_the_Floating_World_-_Flipped_Learning_Activity_Worksheet. Accessed 02 March 2025.

Barad, Dilip. An Artist of the Floating World – Kazuo Ishiguro. Literary Criticism by Dr. Dilip Barad, 6 June 2021, https://blog.dilipbarad.com/2021/06/artist-floating-world.html. Accessed 02 March 2025.

Kazuo Ishiguro – Biographical. The Nobel Prize, Nobel Media AB, 2017, https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/literature/2017/ishiguro/biographical/?utm_source=chatgpt.com. Accessed 02 March 2025.

“Post-War Japan and National Identity in An Artist of the Floating World.” YouTube, uploaded by Tutor Mentor, 17 Aug. 2022, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-WoqKO3hHlc. Accessed 02 March 2025.

“Summary and Analysis | An Artist of the Floating World by Kazuo Ishiguro.” YouTube, uploaded by Literature Help, 7 Mar. 2021, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y45Swhri1Fc. Accessed 02 March 2025.

“An Artist of the Floating World by Kazuo Ishiguro | Full AudioBook.” YouTube, uploaded by Golden Classics, 21 Jan. 2024, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1EhasEkeZ4. Accessed 02 March 2025.

“An Artist of the Floating World | In-Depth Analysis.” YouTube, uploaded by The English Classroom, 8 Feb. 2022, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htKqgRreDtg. Accessed 02 March 2025.

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