The essay is about the relationship between two of the characters in the book. The title of the essay is Father Matsu and Son Stephen, why? Well, although these two characters are not related the relationship that evolves seems just that.
Father Matsu and Son Stephan
In the ideal world every father and son relationship resembles the kind of love and bonding shown on the "Leave it to Beaver" sitcom. Unfortunately, we do not live in a make believe world where all is perfect. Even though The Samurai's Garden written by Gail Tsukiyama is a fictional story, it addresses real relationship issues. These are issues all people can relate to such as the non-verbal father that conveys no emotions. However, the relationship sons search for with their fathers are often birthed with someone else. This is exactly what occurred when Stephen spent some quality time with Matsu in Tarumi, Japan, due to Stephens Tuberculosis.
Nadine, Stephan und Susen
Stephan Sinding med utkast til Ibsen-statue, 1898
Stephan at IHOPStephan discovers the difference of personalities between his father and Matsu, as well as the realization of the beautiful connection that he and Matsu slowly nurtured.
Stephan's father is a man that loves his family on a business level. He fulfills his obligations the best he can, but never knows how to show true affection. He treats his personal life much like his business life with short and logical answers. The famous cliche, "Don't take it personal, its just business," comes to mind. In a cold-hearted manner his father explains his justification for having a twelve-year affair with another woman. "'There has always been enough money to cover all the household expenses, including Mah-mee's spending.'"(pg.83) A perfect example of Stephan's father meeting his obligations to his family. As, his explanation unfolds we also see the main motive to his fathers actions. "'She(the Japanese mistress) has devoted...