After her performance at a beautiful tea house, Yuki, a Japanese dancer,
is followed and harassed by a businessman. Claiming that they could make
a lot of money together if Yuki went to America with him, the man does
not intend to take no for an answer. When Jack, an awkward but friendly
man, witnesses the harassment, he steps in to encourage the man to leave
her alone. They then part ways, and Jack assumes they will never see
each other again, but Yuki has a plan. Jack is one of the wealthiest
foreigners in Japan, which Yuki learns through a mutual friend. When
that mutual friend reintroduces Jack and Yuki, Yuki declares her intent
to marry Jack. This was a common tradition among Western men--they would
marry a Japanese woman, use her, and then leave the country without a
second thought. Aware of the discrimination and racism that his fellow
Americans practice, he tries to be careful not to partake in such
heinous beliefs; therefore, he initially is opposed to the idea. Yuki,
however, is persistent. Arguing that it would be mutually beneficial,
Yuki admits that she is seeking financial stability. Upon her
insistence, Jack finally gives in and agrees to marry. The two decide
that it will be an open and honest relationship; Yuki is interested in
Jack's money, and he is interested in her appearance. But as they grow
closer, the couple realize that their no-strings attached arrangement
might not work out as planned.
Onoto Watanna's A Japanese Nightingale explores themes of gender,
race, and sexuality, as well as addressing the constructs and
exploitation of Asian femininity. With descriptive prose and powerful
themes, A Japanese Nightingale empowers Asian identity and influenced
current cultural movements. Published in 1904, A Japanese Nightingale
became Onoto Watanna's claim to fame. The novel was a big commercial
success, and even inspired a silent film adaptation. However, despite
its popularity, A Japanese Nightingale is rarely found in print.
This edition of Onoto Watanna's A Japanese Nightingale features an
eye-catching cover design and is printed in a contemporary font, making
it both readable and modern.
