Christian Nicholson

HUM102-011

Dr. D. Donahue

Nov 17, 2014

Natsuo and Yusukes marriage will survive despite what the reader may initially believe.
In Mori Yokos Spring Storm, Yoko presents a story filled with symbolism and depth as she
outlines the lives of aspiring actress Midori Natsuo and Asai Yusuke. When Natsuo finds out she has
passed an acting audition that could shoot her into stardom, the strength of the couples marriage is
called into question. Despite the popular belief of most readers, who believe that the marriage is over at
the stories end, this is not the case. While Yoko leaves the true ending up for debate, it is quite clear
that Natsuo and Yusukes marriage will survive this trial. To prove their marriage will survive it is
necessary to look at the interaction between the couple throughout the story, consider what the
symbolic elements of the story truly represent, and consider the cultural differences that make the
outcome not only possible, but realistic.
When looking at a relationship and considering how it will handle a trial, it is important to look
at the interaction between the couple in question. Two people who generally love each other are more
likely to act in a manner that shows a deep understanding of each persons personality, meaning they
are more liable to know how the person will react to a certain chain of events. Natsuo and Yusuke show
in depth knowledge of each other from the moment we first see the two interact. When we see the two
interact for the first time Natsuo lies about the audition, despite the obvious air about her that says
otherwise. Natsuo even goes as far to admit to herself that she is mystified by the fact she had just
lied to her husband. This uncharacteristic and blatant lie shows that despite her excitement at the
results of the audition, Natsuo realizes that Yusuke might not feel the same way. Yusuke plays along
with this lie despite obviously knowing it to be a lie, thus showing that he understands her reservations.
Yusukes act of consideration for Natsuos reservations is indicative of a deep understanding of her and
of the underlying bond the two share. While at first glance the argument seems to lead a reader to
believe that the relationship does not survive, the last line of the story states that after Natsuos debut,
which Yusuke attends, their eyes meet. This simple action is indicative of a surviving relationship as it is
considered an act of romance more often than not, or a representation of mutual understanding.
The concept of symbolic references is littered throughout the story starting with the title itself.
A Spring Storm is indicative of a change. This change can be seen in everything from Natsuos initial
inability to wait for the elevator, to her new found confidence further symbolized by how she is smoking
while standing up. Despite this representation, culturally speaking a Spring Storm holds another
meaning. In the Japanese culture a Spring Storm is thought to be a sign of revival and revitalization. This
concept of revitalization can be interpreted as the revival or appearance of Natsuos confidence, as well
as the rebirth of their relationship. Another aspect that is important to note, despite being married,
Natsuo and Yusuke do not share the same last name. The primary evidence used for the demise of their
relationship is the metaphor comparing them to the Rosallinis and the Bergmans. The argument made
is that if Natsuo becomes a famous actress, the two will be known by her and the fact that Yusuke is a
producer will be secondary. The lack of a shared name renders the entire argument mute as their

relationship in terms of name is non-existent, and therefore neither is the association.

Cherry blossoms or Sakura, are very symbolic in the Japanese culture. Yusuke states that after
the storm the Cherry blossoms will be bursting out. This is symbolic of Natsuos rise to stardom, as it is
viewed as a birth of something. The storm is symbolic of the emotional conflict experienced by the
couple. Following her husbands comment on the Cherry blossoms, Natsuo comments that there will be
another storm soon, after which the blossoms will be gone and summer will arrive. Separately these
statements can be interpreted as meaning that Natsuo will move on without Yusuke, however together
it would be more accurate to say that Natsuo is commenting on their current argument. She essentially
states that fame and fortune will come and go but despite this life will continue unhindered.
Continuing on the topic of the cultural differences in relation to the symbolism used, the
Japanese culture contains a very strong tie to respect and modesty. Natsuos initial reaction to learning
of her success exemplifies this idea as she acts in disbelief. Additionally, when Yusuke goes along with
Natsuos lie about the outcome of the audition, he speaks in a way that is almost mocking by repeating
her comment about her competitors. Furthermore, when Yusuke is described as showing sympathy, he
is also described of having an air of happiness. Upon first glance one might think that he is happy she
didnt get the part, however, this is assuming that he believes she did not get the part, which is
something we know he does not. Contextually speaking, the sympathy he is showing is false, the air of
happiness is because he is glad she got the part. This point is further proven in the statement following
in which his words are described as being tarnished by guilt. This guilt is a product of his own lie that he
has created by going along with Natsuos and not being up front with her about having seen through her
ruse. This conversation in its entirety is very characteristic of the Japanese culture in general. A major
aspect of the culture is to deal with a problem indirectly, so that none of the involved parties loose face.
The what-if conversation using the English producers is a prime example of discussing a problem
indirectly; however, this same what-if was used almost as a joke to keep up with the ruse.
It is evident that Natsuo and Yusuke will remain together despite Natsuos new achievement.
Through the analysis of the interactions between the two, such as their eyes meeting and deep
understanding of one another we can see this is likely. We can further see evidence in the symbolic
events and actions as well as the word choice used throughout such as the title itself and the reference
to the Cherry blossoms. The final piece of evidence that ties the aspect of symbolism and interaction
together is the consideration for the cultural differences which lead many readers to come to incorrect
conclusions due to lack of context. Coupled together, these aspects of symbolism, cultural
understanding and interaction prove that the marriage and relationship will survive the trial of new
found success. As said by Natsuo, There will be another storm in no time. The blossoms will be gone,
and summer will be here. Put another way, this too shall pass and we will go on as we did before,
together.

Yoko, Mori. "Spring Storm." Ed. Shirley Lim and Norman A. Spencer. One World of Literature. Boston,
MA: Houghton Mifflin, 1993. 337-43. Print.