Obasan

The differing forms of communication by the two aunts play a role in Naomi's lifestyle choice: Obasan with her use of Japanese silence and Emily through her straight forwardness. Obasan lives her life through a shell that traps her thoughts and feelings inside. She expresses her feelings in her actions and with occasional Japanese phrases. This is evident in the following description by Naomi; "I feel that each breath she takes is weighted with her …

…rather she shows her displeasure. Naomi compares talking to Emily to "walking through a minefield."(34). Naomi's voice is never silent but never reaches the intensity that Emily possesses. This finds her at a happy medium. Willing to pray and to have a quiet bath with Obasan, but also able to express herself and feelings when needed. Naomi has found her own path of communication and has split the traditions of both Canadian and Japanese societies.