Point of View

The story is written in the past tense and uses first-person plural narration. The story is told through the collective perspective of the women in these groups of Japanese immigrants. Thus the narrative perspective is not contained within a single character, but is rather an amalgamation of the general experiences of these women. Thus, the narrative mostly focuses on expositing upon the most dominant elements of these women’s experiences. In this way, the story sheds light on patterns and dynamics that can shape an individual’s experience based on being a woman and occupying these circumstances. For example, the story examines the manifestations of patriarchy and misogyny among these groups. This examination thereby encourages the reader to consider the ways in which patriarchy and misogyny may manifest in their own life experiences or in the lives of others.

The story also significantly examines the...