Memoirs of a Geisha | Book Review | 1997 | Arthur Golden

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Born on December 6, 1956, Arthur Golden is an American author renowned for his captivating novels. He gained international acclaim with his debut novel, Memoirs of a Geisha. Published in 1997, the meticulously researched book narrates the journey of a young Japanese girl in the geisha world. Golden, a Harvard graduate, drew inspiration from his interviews with former geisha Mineko Iwasaki, infusing authenticity into the narrative. The novel became a bestseller and was even adapted into a successful film. Despite a lengthy gap between his publications, Golden’s impact endures through his immersive storytelling and meticulous exploration of cultural nuances. This has cemented his status as a literary luminary.

SYNOPSIS

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden is a captivating tale set in Japan during the tumultuous years leading up to and following World War II. The novel follows the life of Chiyo, a young girl from a poverty-stricken fishing village. Chiyo is sold into slavery and is trained as a geisha.

Chiyo’s journey begins when she is just nine years old, taken from her family and sold to an okiya, or a geisha house, in the Gion district of Kyoto. Here, she undergoes a harsh, rigid training regime under the watchful eye of the stern and calculating Mother, the head of the okiya. Despite the challenges she faces, Chiyo harbors dreams of escaping servitude and leading a better life.

As Chiyo grows older, she catches the eye of Mameha, a renowned geisha who recognizes Chiyo’s potential and takes her under her wing. With Mameha’s guidance, Chiyo begins her transformation into a geisha, learning the art of dance, music, and conversation. She also acquires the intricate social etiquette needed to navigate the complex world of Kyoto’s geisha society.

Renamed Sayuri, Chiyo rises through the ranks of the geisha world. She captivates powerful, wealthy men with her beauty, grace, and wit. Along the way, she must contend with rivals, jealousies, and the ever-present threat of war looming over Japan.

Central to Sayuri’s story is her complicated relationship with the Chairman, a wealthy businessman who had been kind to her ever since they first met when she was still a young girl. Despite the vast social divide between them, Sayuri harbors a deep, unrequited love for the Chairman. These feelings drive many of her actions and decisions throughout the novel.

As Japan descends into chaos during World War II and its aftermath, Sayuri’s world is turned upside down. She must navigate the shifting alliances and dangers of wartime while protecting herself and her loved ones. Through it all, she remains determined to carve out a life of her own, free from the constraints of tradition and society.

WHAT WE LIKED ABOUT MEMOIRS OF A GEISHA

Arthur Golden’s Memoirs of a Geisha is a literary work that immerses readers into the enigmatic world of Japanese geisha culture. The book effortlessly blends historical fiction with the personal journey of its protagonist, Chiyo.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths lies in its richly detailed depiction of the world of a geisha in pre-World War II Japan. Golden’s thorough research and descriptive prose transports readers to the bustling streets of Kyoto’s Gion district. There, they are treated to a myriad of sights, sounds, and customs of a vibrant and complex society. Through Chiyo’s eyes, we witness the rigorous training, intricate rituals, and subtle rivalries that define the lives of a geisha, offering a rare glimpse into a world that is both alluring and cloaked in mystery.

At the heart of the novel is Chiyo’s journey of self-discovery and transformation as she navigates the challenges of her upbringing, the harsh realities of her servitude, and the complexities of her relationships with those around her. Golden skillfully captures the nuances of Chiyo’s character, from her initial innocence and vulnerability to her growing strength and resilience in the face of adversity. As Chiyo evolves into Sayuri, a renowned geisha in her own right, readers cannot help but notice her emotional struggles and triumphs. It is hard not to root for her as she seeks love, fulfillment, and a sense of belonging in a world that often feels alien and unforgiving.

WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN BETTER ABOUT MEMOIRS OF A GEISHA

While the novel has received widespread acclaim for its graphic portrayal of a bygone era, some readers may doubt its representation of Japanese culture. The author is neither of Japanese descent nor has he experienced the world he describes.

Furthermore, despite making for an interesting read, Golden’s interpretation of the geisha culture is overly romanticized. It perpetuates stereotypes and misconceptions about Japanese women and their roles in the society.

This novel can be enjoyed for its beautiful story, but the overall depiction of the erstwhile Japanese society should be taken with a pinch of salt. Readers are advised not to base their perception of Japanese society based solely on this novel.

QUOTES

Whatever any of us may have thought about Hatsumomo, she was like an empress in our okiya since she earned the income be which we all lived. And being an empress she would have been very displeased, upon returning late at night, to find her palace dark and all the servants asleep.

In the old days, a hundred years or more ago, every time a geisha arrived at a party to entertain, the mistress of the teahouse lit a stick of one-hour incense-called one ohana, or “flower.” The geisha’s fees were based on how many sticks of incense had burned by the time she left.

CONCLUSION