He wished to keep from the knowledge of others that he was worried over his nose. With him his apparent concern was rather a matter of pride and his greatest dread in everyday conversation was to hear the word ‘nose’
We often have the same problem as Zenchi has. It may touch as our physical features as any other matter: relations, unfavourable conditions etc.. In many cases it can draw all our thoughts and efforts so that we may pass over much more important things. According to Ryunosuke Akutagawa these are the harmony with oneself and with other people. The author teaches us not to take mischances so hard and develop in ability to concentrate over most important things. Though it doesn’t mean that one should give up in any case: Zenchi fought and finally won the success.
Man is possessed of two contradictory sentiments. (...) when the other manages to pull through his misfortune (...) some may feel like casting him into his former misfortune
A man’s soul is a broad canvas for the author. It is full of different sentiments, but Ryunosuke Akutagawa points out those of sympathy and envy. When the other is in trouble we may help him, but there’s a risk of our getting accustomed to one’s need and not being able to rejoice in case of one’s success. The author raises the issue of a great importance, which needs the great efforts ‘cause it’s very difficult. Only truthful love and friendship are able for such feelings. Here we find an unambiguous call for our self-development in aspect of insight and sincerity. Still we won’t find a blame on Zenchi or his entourage – the author finds any feelings as a part of a man, don’t accuse anybody, inspires for actions.
The disciple could not fail to see through his master’s design. But his masters innermost feelings, which led him to work out such an elaborate scheme, aroused his disciple’s sympathy
An interesting quote, telling about the monk community. Zenchi delicately made his disciple to start the talk about noses and help with the treatment. The author draws our attention again to the thoughts of characters. The disciple got the intention of Zenchi, but he also got the reason Zenchi did this. He showed the insight and tact and let Zenchi his stroke work. The core is that there are situations in our lives we should act the same as disciple. Still we should distinguish between one’s simple trying to get something by means of another person and a real need of sympathy. But in the case of the one we may try to give needed support.
