Find quotes from this novel, with commentary from Shmoop. Pick a theme below to begin.
Identity Quotes
My name back then was Chiyo. I wouldn't be known by my geisha name, Sayuri, until years later. (1.25)
Coming of Age Quotes
"Never forget them, Chiyo-chan," [Auntie] said. "They're all that's left of your childhood." (8.64)
Tradition and Customs Quotes
Yes, [Sayuri] does elucidate for us the very secret world in which she lived—the rabbit's view of the field, if you will. (Translator's Note.3)
Appearances Quotes
In the years since, I've been called beautiful more often than I can remember. Though, of course, geisha are always called beautiful, even those who aren't. But when Mr. Tanaka said it to me, befor...
Sexuality Quotes
Like prostitutes, their lower-class counterparts, geisha are often in the unusual position of knowing whether this or that public figure really does put his pants on one leg at a time like everyone...
Fate and Free Will Quotes
I wasn't born and raised to be a Kyoto geisha. (1.2)
Competition Quotes
"Could you take the garbage out later?" (3.60)
Family Quotes
Even if we did survive and Mr. Tanaka adopted us, would my own family cease to exist? (3.2)