56 pages 1 hour read

Banana Yoshimoto

Kitchen

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1988

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Important Quotes

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“When was it I realized that, on this truly dark and solitary path we all walk, the only way we can light is our own?”


(“Kitchen”, Page 21)

With the death of her grandmother, Mikage feels utterly alone and realizes that she must make her own way in life and not rely on others.

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“I’ve always been like that—if I’m not pushed to the brink, I won’t move.”


(“Kitchen”, Page 22)

This quote comes off as both a blessing and a curse. Being pushed to the brink can be traumatic for some and an impetus for change in others.

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“In this world there is no place for sadness. No place; not one.”


(“Kitchen”, Page 23)

Though she is grieving, Mikage feels that the world does not concern itself with sadness. Life goes on, and people must also move on to survive.