Essay Questions

Why does Daigo sell his cello?

Daigo is a member of an orchestra, this is his steady job. But, he loses it when the orchestra is dissolved by its owner for poor attendance. Daigo's dream was to be a great musician and this is why he purchased one of the best brands of cellos. Though it cost him 18 million yen, which he will never be able to pay off as he knows he will never get another job as a cellist, thus he sells it with the significance being that he is selling off his dream, a dream that he admits he never was sure he had since it didn't come to fruition. His selling it is him becoming practical in the world, no longer a dreamer.

What is the significance of the opening shot?

The opening is of Daigo and Ikuei driving through the haze of a snow storm with only their headlights peering through the dense fog. The symbolism is representative of their profession, that they prepare the dead for their journey to what is beyond. Thus, they ensure the vehicle is properly maintained and ready to travel into death.

What is the irony of Ikuei shaving Daigo in the training film they are making?

Ikuei tells Daigo to dress in costume and makeup to pretend to be a corpse for a training video he is making. One of the steps is for the nōkanshi to shave the face of the deceased. Ikuei says that the skin is very delicate and must be treated with great care. The irony is that Ikuei slathers shaving foam upon Daigo's face with very little care and then cuts him shaving. This is Daigo's new employer and it is uncertain as to whether he has signed on with someone who has no idea what he is doing.