In times of change, generations may be torn between the choice of tradition and modernization. New values are formed and the older generation may realize that change is inevitable and relations are temporary, leading to their self-isolation. In the novel Kokoro written by Natsume Soseki and translated by Edwin McClellan, the author shows the internal conflict among generations as well as the individual. He creates a contrast between tradition and modernity as well as the ever fleeting and impermanent characteristics of human relationships. Soseki establishes the two central themes of intergenerational changes in values and self isolation by virtue of enlightenment of human nature through interwoven strands of egoism, guilt, symbolism, and character …show more content…
In his letter to the narrator, Sensei exhibits his indecisive nature when saying, “I am an inconsistent creature. Perhaps it is the pressure of my past, and not my own perverse mind, that has made me into this contradictory being. I am all too well aware of this fault in myself. You must forgive me” (Soseki 122). By describing himself an “inconsistent creature,” Sensei is illustrating that he cannot be classified as a representation of neither old nor new customs. Rather, he is representative of a generation that is torn between inevitable modernity and formal tradition, much like the spirit of the Meiji era itself. The narrator’s feelings towards his relationship with Sensei …show more content…
However he invariably discovers such qualities to be fragile and painfully impermanent leading to his self isolation shown through the egoism and guilt of characters within the novel. When telling the unnamed narrator of his hidden past, Sensei says, “Under normal conditions, everybody is more or less good, or, at least, ordinary. But tempt them, and they may suddenly change. That is what is so frightening about men” (Soseki 141). The young narrator shudders with self-recognition while reading this account of another's cruel manipulation of a friend, for like Sensei, the narrator, too, has betrayed someone for personal interest. Both Sensei and the young narrator's acts therein reflect the evil of self-interest which Sensei mourns, and begins to self isolate himself from both his past and present. When enlightening the narrator of his gained philosophy on human nature, Sensei says, “I bear with my loneliness now, in order to avoid greater loneliness in the years ahead. You see, loneliness is the price we have to pay for being born in this modern age, so full of freedom, independence, and our own egotistical selves” (Soseki 73). Sensei recognizes the concept of personal evil and its alienating effects, the narrator discovering humans capacity for treachery and betrayal.