The book opens in Japan in October 1948, a few years after the end of World War II. Part 1 begins with a description of the home of the main character, Masuji Ono, and the unusual process he went through to purchase the house fifteen years ago. A prominent Japanese man named Akira Sugimura built the luxurious home. After Sugimura's death, his daughters offered the house at a very low price, but insisted on screening the applicants for good character and reputation. Ono was not a wealthy man, but was able to secure the home due to his outstanding reputation as an artist and member of the community. At the time, Ono's wife had been offended by the Sugimura's approach to selling the house, wondering how they felt they had a right to.....
