Page:Tayama Katai and His Novel Entitled Futon (Reece).pdf/261

 around it; the peaceful glow of lights was shining through the windows of the houses under the bank. A thin layer of mist hung over the river; from time to time, one could hear the creaking sound of oars of a passing boat. Some one from downstream calling "Ahoy!" could be heard. The sound of wheels echoed when passing over the bridge, then once more all was silent. Walking along the bank, Tokio reflected on many things. He felt the sense of homesickness more keenly than any thoughts about Yoshiko's trouble. The pains of living which men and women over thirty-five to thirty-six years of age experience most frequently--worry about their work, and sexual dissatisfaction—-all these lay heavily upon his mind with tremendous pressure. Yoshiko was both flower and nourishment for his humdrum daily life. Through her bewitching power, flowers bloomed in Tokio's heart which had been like a barren wilderness; and a rusted bell was again on the verge of ringing. Because of Yoshiko Tokio had been instilled with the vigor to again start life. After that, to be obliged to return to his previous lonely and wretched daily life! Hot tears, which were hotter and more profound than discontent or jealousy poured down his cheeks.

He worried seriously about Yoshiko's love affair and her subsequent life. He compared their ennui, weariness, and callousness, after living together, with his own experiences. And, he sympathized with woman's pitiful situation having submitted to a man's will. A pessimistic view of life for the dark mystery hidden in the inner-most depth of nature suddenly assailed Tokio.