One Life Summary and Analysis

Despite fears of war in Manchuria and Mongolia, Japan remains peaceful. The emperor still attends regular functions like a karate demonstration. Gichin recalls the first time he performs for the crown prince. Gichin is well past fifty years old now as he demonstrates karate for His Majesty, who is now the Emperor. Karate is known in the Rukyuan Islands then but hardly known beyond. Now it ranks equally with other traditional martial arts. Funakoshi is moved by His Majesty's memory of the Shuri Castle demonstration and his recognition as the same performer. Gichin's students increase in number while Japan prepares for hostilities with China. Many of his students report being drafted. Those unable to carry a rifle or sword are told to "karate charge" the enemy. He is saddened by news of former students that die in the war...