The Samurai's Garden

Stephen wakes to the warm sounds and sight of Matsu and Fumiko preparing food to bring to the graves of the ancestors at the temple. As the trio walks there with the procession of villagers, Stephen thinks of Keiko and is glad not to see her; he does not wish to encounter her disapproving father again. Stephen remembers the Ghosts’ Feast in Hong Kong, with its more elaborate headstones and the recognition of his mother’s and father’s families. They leave their offerings at the family plot, and Matsu steps away to visit Kenzo’s grave.

When the three return to the village, it has been lit with colorful lanterns in many shapes. The mood is upbeat; the smell of food and the sound of music fill the air. Kenzo’s teahouse remains silent; Stephen thinks of him and of Sachi, wondering if she will celebrate in Yamaguchi. He thinks of the Chinese being slaughtered by the Japanese and that there will be “no one left to celebrate them” (181).