An Artist of the Floating World Setting & Symbolism

An Artist of the Floating World Objects/Places

The Floating World

The phrase used to describe the ephemeral pleasures of the nightlife that could be found in the bars, entertainment halls, and geisha houses of Japan.

The Migi-Hidari

A bar in the pleasure district with a patriotic theme, that Ono used his connections to help establish. Out of gratitude, the owner reserved a prime table for Ono and his art students to use on a regular basis.

The Bridge of Hesitation

The bridge that stood on the path from Ono's house to the pleasure district. It was called the Bridge of Hesitation because here, men on their way out for an evening of drinking might pause and reconsider whether to go home to their families instead. Ironically, this bridge later leads to new office complexes and paved roads which replace the pleasure district, and Ono, who never hesitated to visit the bars, hesitates to cross the bridge which now leads him to the future of his country...
(read more)