Summary

In Chapter 5, “Masao, 65, retired,” six months after retiring, Masao feels discouraged. Although he worked for 42 years, he now feels invisible and useless.

Masao spends most of his time alone at home. His daughter Chie lives “on her own nowadays” and works at the local bookshop (242). Because his wife Yoriko “is nine years younger,” she is still working (246). Masao knows he should help her around the house more, but has little energy. One day, Yoriko suggests he start taking “a Go class at the Community House” her acquaintance Mr. Yakita is teaching (245).

At the Community House, Masao feels odd speaking to other people for the first time in months. He meets Mr. Yakita, who at 75 “looks hale and hearty” (248). Mr. Yakita compliments Masao’s wife. His own marriage ended after he retired when his wife became disgusted with him.

After class, Masao visits the reference...