56
Our findings of the comparisons of these authors' techniques show that Katai, like Hauptmann, successfully utilizes the techniques of writing modern fiction which bring to his reader a convincing rendering of life. We concede that Katai employs in Futon techniques similar to those used in Einsame Menschen, and that the driving force of Katai's theme is implanted within his characters. As a result, his story progresses naturally, without any conspicuous plot devices and as his characters act in a manner appropriate to their own time and space. Our analyses show that Katai applied this technique exclusively when he wrote Futon.[1] This technique, which Katai seemed to have learned from Hauptmann, is one reason why the themes of Einsame Menschen and Futon differ at their completions, regardless of the fact that Katai got his original idea for his story from Einsame Menschen. Another major technique that Katai appears to have adopted from Einsame Menschen is the minute observation used by Hauptmann. Let us look at an example of this aspect of Katai's technique cited on pages 49 and 50. In this passage Katai describes the inner and the outer life of Tokio in minute detail, which in turn allows his readers to experience Tokio's reactions by keeping the readers in step with Tokio. Because Katai utilizes this technique of the minute observation of his characters, his readers are able to share the experiences of these characters in Futon. Also, by using this technique, Katai aptly illustrates in Futon how to write a novel which is, in reality, a work of fiction.
On the basis of the above findings--treatment of his theme, development of his characters, and techniques used in Futon--can we infer
- ↑ See p. 48.
