Question of Loyalty in Kip Wilson's Novel "Picture Bride"

Loyalty is a complex and multifaceted concept that has been explored by writers and philosophers for centuries. In his critically acclaimed novel "Picture Bride," Kip Wilson delves into the theme of loyalty, examining the ways in which it can shape and define individuals and communities. Set in the early 20th century, the novel tells the story of a young Japanese woman named Hana who is sent to Hawaii as a "picture bride" to marry a man she has never met. As Hana navigates the challenges of her new life, she must grapple with questions of loyalty to her family, her culture, and herself.

A Question of Loyalty: A Novel (Picture Bride Book 2)

by Mike Malaghan

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3915 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	490 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Hana's Loyalty to Her Family

From a young age, Hana is taught to value loyalty to her family above all else. Her parents and grandparents instill in her the belief that her primary duty is to honor and support her family members. This loyalty is tested when Hana is forced to leave her home in Japan to marry a stranger in Hawaii. Despite her fear and uncertainty, Hana agrees to the marriage in order to provide for her family and bring honor to her name.

Throughout the novel, Hana's loyalty to her family remains unwavering. She works tirelessly on the plantation where her husband works, sending money back home to support her parents and siblings. She also endures the hardships of living in a foreign land, struggling to learn a new language and adapt to a different culture. Hana's unwavering loyalty to her family is a testament to the strength of familial bonds and the sacrifices individuals are willing to make for those they love.

Hana's Loyalty to Her Culture

In addition to her loyalty to her family, Hana also feels a deep sense of loyalty to her Japanese culture. She is proud of her heritage and traditions, and she strives to maintain her identity in the face of adversity. This loyalty is evident in her daily life, as she continues to speak Japanese, wear traditional clothing, and observe Japanese customs.

Hana's loyalty to her culture is tested when she encounters discrimination and prejudice from the white community in Hawaii. She is often treated as an outsider and made to feel inferior because of her race. Despite these challenges, Hana refuses to abandon her culture. She finds solace and strength in her connection to her Japanese heritage, and she uses her voice to speak out against injustice.

Hana's Loyalty to Herself

While Hana is fiercely loyal to her family and her culture, she also struggles with questions of loyalty to herself. As she matures and gains a greater understanding of the world, she begins to question some of the beliefs and values that she was raised with. She realizes that she has the right to make choices that are best for herself, even if they conflict with the expectations of others.

Hana's journey toward self-discovery is not always easy. She faces criticism and opposition from those who believe that she is betraying her family and her culture. However, Hana ultimately finds the courage to follow her own path, and she carves out a life for herself that is both fulfilling and authentic.

In "Picture Bride," Kip Wilson offers a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of the theme of loyalty. Through the character of Hana, Wilson shows us that loyalty is not a static or unchanging concept. It is a complex and evolving force that can be shaped by a variety of factors, including family, culture, and individual conscience. Hana's journey toward self-discovery and self-acceptance is a powerful reminder that loyalty is ultimately about being true to oneself.

Additional Keywords

* Japanese American literature * Picture brides * Immigration * Cultural identity * Loyalty and family * Loyalty and culture * Loyalty and self * Kip Wilson * Question of loyalty novel

A Question of Loyalty: A Novel (Picture Bride Book 2)

by Mike Malaghan

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3915 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	490 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE