Part II, My Parents and I Summary

When Soseki arrives home, his father is in the garden appearing in good health. His father commends Soseki on graduating and Soseki is touched by the compliment until his father repeats himself. Soseki compares his father disparagingly to Sensei. Soseki's father explains why he is proud and Soseki, filled with remorse, takes out his now wrinkled diploma. His parents insist on a party to celebrate and finally Soseki capitulates. Soseki is concerned with his parents' apparent lack of regard for his father's illness.

The family receives news that Emperor Meiji has fallen ill. Soseki's parents suggest delaying the dinner. Soseki's father is most affected by the Emperor's illness, as it is similar to his own. He vigilantly reads the newspaper for updates. As Emperor Meiji's health continues to decline, Soseki's father descends into...