WORKSHEET-4: "AN ARTIST OF THE FLOATING WORLD"

This blog is part of the Thinking activity task of the worksheet of The Artist of the Floating World, assigned by dilip sir barad.

• About the novel:- 

An Artist of the Floating World (1986) is a novel by British author Kazuo Ishiguro. It is set in post-World War II Japan and is narrated by Masuji Ono, an ageing painter, who looks back on his life and how he has lived it. He notices how his once-great reputation has faltered since the war and how attitudes towards him and his paintings have changed. The chief conflict deals with Ono's need to accept responsibility for his past actions, rendered politically suspect in the context of post-War Japan. The novel ends with the narrator expressing good will for the young white-collar workers on the streets at lunch break. The novel also deals with the role of people in a rapidly changing political environment and with the assumption and denial of guilt.

Also, this novel is considered as both historical fiction and global literature (Weltliteratur). It is considered historical fiction on account of its basis in a past that predates the author's own experiences, and it draws from historical facts. It is also considered global literature on account of its broad international market and its theme of how the world today is interconnected.

Q-1

a) What is the central theme discussed in the excerpt?

1. Fal ability of memory 

2. uncertrainity 

3. Identity 

4. Bridge of Hesitation 

5. Moral Responsibility

b) Who is the protagonist of the novel, and what is his desire regarding his art?

The protagonist of the novel is Masuji Ono. His desire regarding his art is to align it with nationalist ideals and to believe that art should serve the interests of the state.

Q-2 

a) How does Masuji Ono's shift in perspective reflect broader societal changes in post-war Japan?

Masuji Ono's shift in perspective reflects broader societal changes in post-war Japan by illustrating the evolution of national identity and the reevaluation of traditional values. Initially aligned with nationalist ideals, Ono's journey mirrors Japan's collective reckoning with its past and the search for a new identity rooted in peace, reconciliation, and individual autonomy.

b) Can you provide examples of how nationalism influences the protagonist's actions in the novel ?

Chisu Matsuda's fervent nationalism significantly influences Masuji Ono's actions and beliefs, guiding him towards aligning his art with nationalist ideals. Matsuda's unwavering commitment reinforces Ono's belief in serving the state through his art, leading to the production of paintings glorifying Japanese militarism. Matsuda's influence highlights the powerful impact of nationalist figures during a turbulent period in Japanese history.

Q-3 

a) How does Kazuo Ishiguro use narrative strategy to convey the theme of deception in the novel?

Kazuo Ishiguro employs narrative strategy in "An Artist of the Floating World" to convey the theme of deception. Through the use of an unreliable narrator, Masuji Ono, Ishiguro subtly reveals the distortions and omissions in Ono's recollections, inviting readers to question the reliability of the narrative. By presenting events through Ono's subjective perspective, Ishiguro creates an atmosphere of ambiguity and uncertainty, allowing deception to permeate the narrative and adding layers of complexity to the exploration of truth and memory.

b) Discuss the significance of Masuji Ono's journey from a respected artist to a figure of disdain in society.

Masuji Ono's journey from a respected artist to a figure of disdain in society is significant as it reflects broader societal shifts and personal introspection. Initially admired for his artistic talent and alignment with nationalist ideals, Ono's fall from grace symbolizes the disillusionment with the past and the reevaluation of traditional values in post-war Japan. His descent into disrepute underscores the consequences of his past actions and the complexities of personal accountability in a changing society. Through Ono's journey, the novel explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the elusive nature of identity amidst societal upheaval.

Q-4 

a) Do you believe Masuji Ono's actions are justified in his pursuit of advocating for the poor? Why or why not?

No, his actions are not justified. While advocating for the poor is noble, Masuji Ono's shift towards nationalistic propaganda contradicts his initial intentions. His involvement in promoting nationalist ideologies perpetuates harm and glorifies militarism, ultimately undermining his purported advocacy for the marginalized.

b) How does the unreliable narration contribute to the overall impact of the novel? Provide examples to support your answer.

The unreliable narration in "An Artist of the Floating World" enriches the novel by challenging readers' perceptions and interpretations of events. Masuji Ono's selective memory and subjective perspective create ambiguity, prompting readers to question the reliability of the narrative. This enhances the thematic exploration of memory, identity, and truth, inviting critical engagement and multiple interpretations.

Q-5

a) Imagine you are a character in the novel. Write a journal entry expressing your thoughts and feelings about Masuji Ono's actions and their impact on society.

I've known Masuji Ono for as long as memory serves, his storytelling weaving the fabric of my upbringing with tales of Japan. Yet, an unsettling unease shrouds our interactions, particularly evident in his strained relationship with his daughter, Setsuko. Recently, I've observed him standing in contemplation on the bridge, burdened by uncertainty and internal turmoil. Despite his reverence for former students like Muriyama and his admiration for young Ichiro, questions linger about the authenticity of his artistic identity, especially in light of his deviations and betrayal of Kuroda. The guilt reflected in his eyes hints at a deeper conflict, leaving me to ponder if Ono's internal struggles might lead him down a path of drastic actions.

b) Design a new book cover for "An Artist of the Floating World" that captures the essence of its themes and narrative style. Explain your design choices.

A captivating recreation of the cover page of the novel "An Artist of Floating World" by Kazuo Ishiguro. The scene depicts Masuji Ono, a once-renowned painter, burning his problematic paintings in a backyard. In the background, smoke from the burning paintings creates an atmospheric haze. Simultaneously, the police are burning the controversial painting of Kuroda, a fellow artist, in a separate scene. The cover conveys a sense of artistic struggle, societal pressures, and the passage of time.

I have created these book covers by using AI tools.

This answers are written with the help of AI tools.

Thank you...

Have a great time.