In 'Patriotism' Mishima developed the theme of loss through the use of the intense sexual imagery in contrast. In Mishima’s word pictures, both lieutenant and Reiko’s bodies were glowing with the glitter of life. However, in the contrary, what they had possessed led to the opposite side: death. Mishima intended to present the extremely beautiful flame of human’s life at the mercy of the dust of death. Yet how gorgeous fireworks are, they shine briefly. Obviously, Mishima understood it and used it as a sigh for the loss of human’s power, the burning fire of life. Enveloped by the shadow of death at their last touch, lieutenant and Reiko showed their desire for each other and their delight of passion, but undeniably, they were forced to