Chapter 4 Summary

Toshiko wants to teach H how to properly use silverware instead of chopsticks. She wants H and Yoshiko to learn the correct handling of knives and forks so that they will not be feel awkward in handling the cutlery. H practices but is having difficulty with the task. To avoid embarrassment, H tells his mother that he does not want his friends to see him using the silverware.

One day, H and Yoshiko are polishing the silverware when H sees that one fork has a slightly bent tine. Trying to push it back into place, H hits it with a hammer, and the tine breaks off. Toshiko tells him that he can use the fork as his own. Yoshiko tells her mother that she will take the fork because H shouldn't have to use a fork with a broken tine. Yoshiko's gesture touches...