Summary

In “The Tidal Flat—Dream,” Tsukiko found herself in an unfamiliar place. A nearby camphor tree sounded like it was saying “Come here” and “Who are you” (137)? It was night and she could have been in Sensei’s garden, but had not seen him “for some time” (137). She drank for a while and went to the bathroom, wondering if she should visit Sensei. When she emerged, Sensei was there. They sat together in the unfamiliar place, drinking, talking, and watching people digging for clams on the beach. Tsukiko wondered if she was dreaming. She did not feel drunk no matter how much she drank and hers and Sensei’s conversation went in circles. Then Sensei disappeared, reappearing a moment later. They talked about where they were and the clam diggers they were watching.

Suddenly, Sensei was “standing on...