'Nami-ko' Summary

Nami-ko is a young woman from a noble Japanese family who is happily married to Takeo, a naval officer. However, tragedy strikes when Nami-ko contracts tuberculosis. Takeo's mother, fearing for the family line, sends Nami-ko back to her family, effectively divorcing her. Takeo is furious, but unable to undo the divorce, he goes off to fight in the war with China. Meanwhile, Nami-ko's health deteriorates, and her only wish is to see Takeo one more time. This novel explores the clash between tradition and modernity in early Meiji Japan, as well as the devastating effects of illness and war on individuals and families.