Exploring Town of Evening Calm,
Country of Cherry Blossoms By Fumiyo
Kouno
(Study Guide 2) Prepared by Dr. Cecilia Osyanju
"Town of Evening Calm, Country of Cherry Blossoms"
relates to the historical context of the time period by
portraying the enduring consequences of war, particularly
the atomic bombing, on the lives of the survivors and their
families.
The manga's emphasis on the personal and societal
effects of the tragedy aligns with the historical reality of
the aftermath of the atomic bombing in Hiroshima and its
long-term impact on the local community.
By depicting the experiences of the hibakusha (atomic
bomb survivors) and their descendants, the manga
conveys a message of peace, reconciliation, and the
importance of understanding the human cost of war,
which is deeply rooted in the historical context of the events of World War II and the use of
atomic weapons
The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were carried out for a combination of reasons:
1. To force a quick surrender by Japan and bring an end to the war in the Pacific, thus
reducing the number of American lives lost.
2. Japan's unwillingness to surrender unconditionally and the desire of the United States
for an unconditional surrender were significant factors.
3. The bombings were intended to demonstrate U.S. supremacy in the post-war world
order, as well as to test the world's first atomic bomb in actual combat to ascertain its
effectiveness.
4. The decision to target Hiroshima was influenced by the city's size, layout, and its
suitability as a test site for the bomb's destructive power, as well as the concentration of
military and munitions facilities.
5. The bombing of Nagasaki was also influenced by the desire to further force Japan's
surrender and to demonstrate the catastrophic destructive power of the atomic bomb.
6. The bombings were part of a new kind of warfare, marking the dawn of the nuclear age
and bringing an end to the Second World War, albeit at a terrible cost to the Japanese
civilian population.
Description of Minami’s emotional experiences and struggles in the aftermath of the
bombing of Hiroshima.
Minami is introduced as a young woman living in Hiroshima in the years following the bombing.
Through her daily life, readers witness the devastating impact of the bombing on the city and its
people.
Survivor's Guilt
Minami struggles with survivor's guilt, a common experience among those who lived through the
bombing. She feels guilty for surviving when so many others did not, and is haunted by
memories of the event. This internal struggle is a central theme of the story, as Minami tries to
come to terms with her past and find a way to move forward.
Everyday Struggles
Despite the challenges she faces, Minami works hard to lead a normal life. She takes care of
her family, works at a factory, and tries to find joy in small moments. Her resilience in the face of
adversity reflects the strength of the human spirit.
The key themes explored in "Town of Evening Calm, Country of Cherry Blossoms"
include:
1. Survival and Resilience: The manga delves into the struggles of the survivors of the atomic
bombing of Hiroshima, portraying their resilience and the challenges they face in coming to
terms with the aftermath of the devastating event.
2. Inter-generational Impact: The work explores the enduring impact of the atomic bombing on
later generations, depicting how the event continues to influence the lives and relationships of
the descendants of the survivors.
3. Emotional and Physical After-Effects: The manga focuses on the emotional and physical
after-effects of the bombing that are felt years and decades after the event, offering a sensitive
portrayal of the long-term consequences on the lives of the characters.
4. Human Nature: The story is described as being profoundly human, delving into various facets
of human nature such as greed, fear, guilt, and shame, and portraying these elements with
depth and authenticity.
5. Japanese Attitudes and Reactions: The work provides insights into Japanese attitudes and
reactions to the events, offering a nuanced and indirect approach to the subject matter, and
reflecting the cultural and societal responses to the historical event..
These themes collectively contribute to the emotional depth, historical significance, and artistic
quality of the manga, making it a powerful and thought-provoking work.
Trauma
In "Town of Evening Calm," Fumiyo Kouno skillfully captures the complex interplay between
personal and collective trauma. Through Minami's story, the manga delves into the enduring
scars of the atomic bomb, emphasizing the challenges of rebuilding a shattered life in the
aftermath of such a catastrophic eve
The narrative centers around Minami Hirano, a young woman who, despite surviving the
bombing, grapples with the emotional and physical scars of that catastrophic event. Trauma is
evident throughout the story, with Minami's experiences serving as a lens into the lasting effects
of the atomic bomb.
1. Her family's tragic losses, including her father and two sisters, highlight the devastating
toll the bombing took on families and communities.
2. The separation from her younger brother, Asahi, who was evacuated and adopted by
relatives, further emphasizes the fractured nature of families in the aftermath of such
trauma.
3. Minami's daily life in a shanty-town near downtown Hiroshima underscores the ongoing
struggles of those who survived the bombing. The harsh living conditions and her
mother's work as a seamstress reflect the broader challenges faced by survivors as they
attempt to rebuild their lives amidst the ruins.
4. The trauma is also manifested in Minami's psychological struggles. When her co-worker,
Yutaka Uchikoshi, shows affection by giving her a pair of sandals and a handkerchief,
Minami experiences a vivid flashback to the horrors of the bombing. This episode
reveals the profound impact trauma has on interpersonal relationships and the difficulty
survivors face in forming emotional connections.
5. The climax of the story occurs when Minami succumbs to the long-term effects of
radiation poisoning. Her deterioration serves as a poignant metaphor for the lingering
and insidious nature of trauma. Despite her desire to move past the past, Minami's
physical decline reflects the pervasive and lasting consequences of the atomic bomb on
the survivors.
6. Uchikoshi's attempt to comfort Minami and the presence of other co-workers during her
final moments highlight the importance of community and support in coping with trauma.
However, Minami's death just as her brother and aunt arrive underscores the tragic
reality that even moments of reunion can be tinged with loss and sorrow.
Resilience and Survival
"Town of Evening Calm, Country of Cherry Blossoms" by Fumiyo Kouno prominently features
the theme of resilience and survival, portraying the indomitable human spirit in the aftermath of
the atomic bombing of Hiroshima by Hibakusha (pronounced [çibaꜜkɯ̥ɕa] or [çibakɯ̥ꜜɕa];
Japanese: 被爆者 or 被曝者; lit. "survivor of the bomb" or "person affected by exposure [to
radioactivity]") is a word of Japanese origin generally designating the people affected by the
atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki at the end of World War II.
The manga unfolds through two interconnected stories, each offering a nuanced exploration of
how individuals and communities cope with the trauma of war and the enduring effects of the
bombing.
1. Surviving the immediate impact of the atomic bomb:
The narrative follows characters who have survived the immediate impact of the atomic bomb,
focusing on their day-to-day existence in the post-war era. The resilience of these characters is
evident in their efforts to rebuild their lives amid the ruins of Hiroshima. The shanty-town setting
and the characters' occupations, such as Minami's mother working as a seamstress, underscore
the challenges they face in securing basic necessities. Despite these hardships, the characters
display an unwavering determination to endure and move forward.
2. Interconnected Lives:
The interconnectedness of the characters' lives emphasizes the collective resilience of the
community. The stories of Minami and her family, as well as those of other survivors,
demonstrate how individuals support each other in the face of adversity. This
interconnectedness serves as a testament to the strength derived from communal bonds,
fostering a sense of solidarity that aids in the process of healing and rebuilding.
3. Embracing Normalcy:
The manga portrays characters striving to reintegrate into normalcy despite the haunting
memories of the bomb. Everyday activities, such as work, relationships, and familial bonds,
become acts of resilience as characters strive to create a sense of normalcy in a world forever
changed by the atomic bombing. Their ability to find joy in small moments, like the blooming
cherry blossoms, highlights the human capacity to seek beauty and meaning amidst tragedy.
4. Passing Down the Legacy:
The theme of resilience extends to the next generation, as seen in Minami's younger brother,
Asahi. Raised by his aunt in Mito, Ibaraki, Asahi's life reflects the resilience of those who have
inherited the legacy of survival. The manga suggests that resilience is not only an individual trait
but a collective strength passed down through generations, emphasizing the importance of
remembering and learning from the past.
5. Coping with Trauma:
The characters in the manga grapple with the psychological toll of trauma, and their ability to
confront and overcome these emotional challenges is a central aspect of resilience. Whether it's
Minami's flashbacks or Shigeko's struggles to move on, the manga portrays the ongoing journey
of survivors as they navigate the complex process of healing and finding meaning in their lives.
In "Town of Evening Calm, Country of Cherry Blossoms," Fumiyo Kouno beautifully captures the
multifaceted nature of resilience. Through the interconnected stories of various characters, the
manga illustrates that survival goes beyond the physical act of enduring; it involves rebuilding,
forming connections, and finding hope in the midst of profound tragedy.
6. The resilience of the ecosystem, as exemplified by the ability of cherry blossoms to survive
adverse conditions, can be connected to the themes in "Town of Evening Calm, Country of
Cherry Blossoms." The cherry blossoms, known for their modest life spans and ability to survive
harsh weather, serve as a metaphor for the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the
face of adversity, a central theme in the film.
Just as the cherry blossoms persist through cold snaps and snow, the characters in the film
demonstrate resilience in coping with their past, family history, and personal struggles. The
film's exploration of survival and resilience aligns with the concept of nature's ability to weather
ongoing challenges and thrive in the face of adversity, as seen in the examples of resilience in
the ecosystem. This connection highlights the universal theme of resilience, which is portrayed
both in the natural world and in the lives of the characters in the film.
Symbolism of the Cherry Blossoms in "Town of Evening
Calm, Country of Cherry Blossoms"
In "Town of Evening Calm, Country of Cherry Blossoms" by Fumiyo Kouno, the symbolism of
cherry blossoms plays a crucial role in conveying both the beauty and fragility of life, as well as
the strength and endurance required to overcome adversity. The title itself suggests a
juxtaposition of serene moments and the transient nature of existence, capturing the essence of
the stories within the manga.
Fumiyo Kouno skillfully employs the symbolism of cherry blossoms to convey the multifaceted
nature of the characters' experiences. The title captures the delicate balance between moments
of calm and the impermanence of life, emphasizing both the fragility and enduring strength
present in the aftermath of profound tragedy.
1. Beauty and Fragility:
Cherry blossoms are renowned for their fleeting beauty, symbolizing the transient nature of
life. This fragility is mirrored in the lives of the characters who survived the atomic bombing of
Hiroshima. The title, "Town of Evening Calm," hints at moments of quiet and peace, while the
cherry blossoms evoke the ephemeral nature of these respites in the aftermath of war.
2. Strength and Endurance:
The cherry blossoms also represent the strength and endurance of nature. Despite their brief
bloom, cherry blossoms return each year, symbolizing renewal and resilience. Similarly, the
characters in the manga embody the strength to endure the lasting effects of the atomic bomb.
Their daily lives, relationships, and the rebuilding of their communities reflect a resilient spirit
that persists despite the profound challenges they face.
3. Symbolism of Cherry Blossoms in Japanese Culture:
In Japanese culture, cherry blossoms (sakura) hold a deep significance. They are associated
with the transient nature of life, the beauty of the moment, and the concept of mono no aware,
an appreciation for the impermanence of all things. This cultural context enriches the symbolism
in the manga, as the characters navigate their post-war lives with an awareness of the fleeting
nature of both joy and sorrow.
4. Title's Connection to the Stories:
The title, "Town of Evening Calm, Country of Cherry Blossoms," encapsulates the duality of
the narratives. The 'Evening Calm' suggests moments of peace and reflection, while 'Cherry
Blossoms' implies the transitory nature of these moments. Together, the title encapsulates the
characters' struggles to find solace and normalcy amidst the enduring scars of war.
5. Cherry Blossoms as a Metaphor for Healing:
The recurring theme of cherry blossoms in the manga can be seen as a metaphor for healing.
Just as the blossoms return each spring, the characters find ways to renew and rebuild their
lives. The beauty of the cherry blossoms becomes a source of inspiration and a reminder that,
despite the past, there is always potential for growth and renewal.
The world conference against A&H is one of the main events
that took place in Japan in 1955. The first conference is held
in August 6th in Hiroshima and is portrayed in Town of
Evening Calm by Fumiyo Kouno.
The Japan Council against Atomic
and Hydrogen Bombs, also known
as Gensuikyō, is a Japanese NGO
founded in 1955 that seeks a
worldwide
ban
on
nuclear
weapons.
The organization was established
after the Lucky Dragon No. 5
Incident, in which a Japanese
fishing vessel was showered with
radioactive fallout from the U.S.
military's
15-megaton
"Castle
Bravo" hydrogen bomb test.
The first World Conference
against Atomic and Hydrogen
Bombs was held on August 6,
1955, in Hiroshima, and it was
portrayed in the manga Town of
Evening Calm by Fumiyo Kouno.
Survivors of the atomic bombs
shared their experiences with the
world during this conference, and
the organization has since become
a vocal leader in the worldwide
anti-nuclear movement, deriving
moral authority from Japan's
unique status as the only nation to
have been attacked with nuclear
weapons.
The movement against A&H bombs has continued to this day, with the 2009 World Conference
Against A&H Bombs being held to promote the abolition of nuclear weapons.
The primary purpose of the World Conference against Atomic and Hydrogen Bombs (A&H) is to
promote global awareness and action against nuclear weapons, advocate for their elimination,
and work towards a nuclear-free, peaceful, and just world. The conferences have been held
since the first one in 1955, with the most recent events taking place in Hiroshima and Nagasaki,
Japan.
Key objectives of these conferences include:
1. Sharing the experiences of survivors (Hibakusha) of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and
Nagasaki, as well as other nuclear disasters, to emphasize the devastating human and
environmental consequences of nuclear weapons.
2. Encouraging international cooperation and solidarity in the fight against nuclear weapons,
including the prevention of their use, the prohibition of their development, and the elimination of
existing stockpiles.
3. Promoting dialogue and understanding between different nations, political parties, and civil
society organizations to build a united front against nuclear weapons.
4. Advocating for the adoption of international treaties and agreements that ban nuclear
weapons, such as the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW).
5. Addressing the interconnected issues of nuclear weapons, economy, and the environment,
and promoting sustainable development and disarmament.
The conferences have been organized by the Japan Council against Atomic and Hydrogen
Bombs (Gensuikyō) and have been attended by representatives from various countries,
including survivors of nuclear disasters, politicians, activists, and members of civil society
organizations. The conferences have also been accompanied by global actions, such as the
Peace Wave Actions for the elimination of nuclear weapons, which take place around the world
from August 2 to 9 each year
The main challenges to nuclear disarmament include:
1. Disconnect between commitments and implementation: Nuclear-weapon states have made
promises to disarm, but progress has been slow, leading to widespread skepticism about the
effectiveness of disarmament efforts.
2. Inertia of disarmament initiatives: There is a lack of significant progress in disarmament, and
the production and maintenance of nuclear weapons continue to cost billions of dollars,
hindering efforts to achieve and maintain a world free of nuclear weapons.
3. Tension between nuclear and non-nuclear weapon states: The tension between these two
groups has strained the Treaty on the Nonproliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and has
impacted both disarmament and nonproliferation efforts.
4. Ambiguity within treaty provisions: Current interpretations of the NPT have led to
considerable challenges in its implementation, further complicating disarmament efforts[2].
5. Humanitarian and environmental concerns: Greater attention needs to be paid to the harmful
effects of the use and testing of nuclear weapons on humans, animals, and plants, as well as to
the environmental remediation in affected areas.
Addressing these challenges is crucial for advancing nuclear disarmament and promoting
global peace and security.
Nuclear disarmament commitments made by nuclear weapons states primarily revolve around
the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation(the prevention of an increase or spread of something) of
Nuclear Weapons (NPT). The NPT, signed in 1968 and entered into force in 1970, is the most
widely adhered-to disarmament treaty, with 191 states having joined it, including the five
nuclear-weapon states.
Significance of the bridge in "The Town of Evening Calm,
Country of Cherry Blossoms"
The bridge in the "Town of
Evening Calm" part of the
story holds significant
symbolic value. The bridge
serves as a metaphor for
the connection between
the past and the present,
as well as the bridge
between the survivors of
the atomic bombing and the subsequent generations. It represents the link between the
haunting memories of the traumatic event and the ongoing efforts to rebuild and move forward.
In essence, the bridge in "The Town of Evening Calm, Country of Cherry Blossoms" represents
the journey of healing and the intergenerational connection in the face of profound tragedy.
Symbolic importance of the Atomic Bomb Dome in "Town of
Evening Calm, Country of Cherry Blossoms."
The Hiroshima Building, now known as the Atomic Bomb Dome, is a significant element in
"Town of Evening Calm, Country of Cherry Blossoms" and holds great historical and symbolic
importance.
Situated at the delta between two tributaries of the Ota River, the Peace Memorial Park, where
the Atomic Bomb Dome is located, serves as a commemorative space embodying Hiroshima's
municipal agenda and is the only
visible relic of the tragic day of
the
atomic
bombing.
The
building's preservation as a ruin
and its inclusion in the Peace
Memorial Park symbolize the
city's transformation from an
"A-bomb city" to a "mecca of
peace," highlighting the tendency
to replace the "atomic bomb" with
"peace." The Atomic Bomb
Dome, as an official site of
memory, represents the enduring
impact of the atomic bombing
and the city's commitment to
peace and reconciliation. The
manga's
portrayal
of
this
historical site reflects the broader
themes of remembrance, the
consequences of war, and the
resilience
of
the
affected
communities.