The Sibling Relationship

Explores Yozo's relationship with his elder brother, who acted as a surrogate father after their father's death.

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The Brother's Letter

The Stern Warning The Report Yozo's poor attendance led the school to send a confidential report to his father. His elder brother wrote a long, sternly phrased letter. The Obedience Yozo felt the weight of his brother's authority. He did not answer back. He tried to change his ways, but failed. The Family's Concern His brother's letter showed that the family was watching. Yozo was not free to do as he pleased.

The Secret Allowance

The Quiet Support The Money from Brothers Yozo's brothers sent money to Flatfish secretly, without their father's knowledge. Flatfish then gave it to Yozo as if it were his own. The Complex Feelings Yozo was grateful but also resentful. He felt like a charity case. The allowance was a lifeline, but it also demeaned him. The Bond of Blood Despite the distance, his brothers never abandoned him. They were his only connection to the family.

The Release from the Hospital

The Brother's Decision The Visit Yozo's eldest brother came to the mental hospital with Flatfish. He told Yozo of their father's death. The Promise The brother said, "We won't ask any questions about your past. You won't have to do anything. But you must leave Tokyo." The Obedience Yozo nodded faintly. He was taken to the country, a reject. His brother's decision was kind, but it sealed Yozo's fate as a recluse.

The Country House

The Prison of Comfort The House His brother bought a run-down house for Yozo in a hot spring village. It had five rooms, but was old and worm-eaten. The Servant He sent Tetsu to look after him. Yozo was now a passive inhabitant, dependent on his brother's charity. The End of Agency Yozo's life was now managed by his brother. He had no say in his own destiny. He was a ghost in a house.

college, after the school reported Yozo's absences

after the suicide attempt, under Flatfish

three months after commitment

after the hospital, when Yozo moved to the hot spring