Tradition versus Modernity in An Artist of the Floating World

Tradition versus modernity

Abstract An Artist of the Floating World by Kazuo Ishiguro presents a deep conflict between tradition and modernity in post-war Japanese society. The novel shows how social values, cultural beliefs, and personal identities changed after the Second World War. Through the character of Masuji Ono, an aging painter, the novel explores the difficulties faced by people who were emotionally attached to traditional Japanese ideals while society rapidly moved toward modern thinking and Western influence. Ono represents the older generation that believes in loyalty, nationalism, family honor, and traditional authority, whereas the younger generation supports freedom, democracy, and modern lifestyles (Ishiguro 21). The novel also highlights the emotional struggle of individuals who feel trapped between past values and present realities. Ono’s memories reflect guilt, regret, and confusion as he tries to understand his role in a changing society. Ishiguro uses simple narration and memory-based storytelling to show how modernization affects family relationships, social identity, and cultural traditions (Shaffer 44). The conflict between old and new values becomes an important sociological and psychological theme throughout the novel. This study examines how An Artist of the Floating World presents the tension between tradition and modernity through character development, family relationships, cultural transformation, and post-war social changes. The paper also explores how Ishiguro portrays the decline of traditional authority and the rise of modern values in Japanese society.

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