Peter Oliva's novel "The City of Yes" deftly captures a voyage of discovery for a foreign man in Japan. Whether through the accurate details of Alien Registration Cards, or through the respect for a business card, Oliva finds a way to use ordinary objects as thought-provoking symbolism. Alive with Westernized Japanese people and bizarre men who purposely float ashore, the protagonist journeys through old and present-day Japan and gains knowledge and experience. Brushstroke by brushstroke, the protagonist turns into a colourful mosaic. The theme of a quest for identity" in the novel is developed through the use of gaining knowledge, symbolism and characterization.

The knowledge gained in voyaging a new country can affect and change one's values and personality. One of the many things it is important to be familiar with in a foreign country is the language. The protagonist begins his journey in Japan by learning the...