Kazuo Ishiguro's A Family Supper

A Family Supper

Culture is a crucial component of human identity; it is like a base upon which we build our character, and is an integral part of who we are. In A Family Supper, Kazuo Ishiguro explores the idea of culture and tradition and the potentially devastating influence they can have on both an individual and an entire nation.

The story begins with a rather detailed description of the fugu, which initially seems somewhat unusual. The narrator discloses that his mother died through eating one as not to offend a friend. It is symbolically significant that the mother died in the name of tradition, as it shows her blind dedication to it. She obediently followed the traditional Japanese customs and paid for that mistake with her life. It is a comment on, or a warning against the destructive nature of culture when followed unquestioned. However, it is also evident that author specified the horrendous character of fugu poisoning to add to the suspense constantly looming over the story, especially towards the end of it. When the family eats a dish prepared by the father, which he calls “just fish” , one cannot help but think that the father may have committed hara-kiri and taken his family with him. However, the writer opts for an open ending, leaving it up to the reader to reflect upon the conflict and the resolution (or lack thereof) himself.

It is certain that Kazuo Ishiguro intended to create a distinct atmosphere in the story. The ambience, which remains the same