Connection seemed to be a recurring theme in the readings this week- the lack of connection, and the human need for connection in society. Realizing Fun Things Through Water and Convenience Store Woman both feature women who view marriage as a chore- something they do merely to satisfy those around them. It’s not that these two protagonists lack connections; rather, they have connections that are important to them, such as with sisters or coworkers. They simply don't place immense value on romantic relationships, as society often expects young women to do. In Convenience Store Woman, Keiko does not see her lack of a romantic relationship as a problem. She feels comfortable in her job, even describing it as a "light-filled box." However, she grows tired of others constantly judging her lifestyle. In Tomo-chan’s Happiness, the story touches on a romantic connection Tomo-chan feels toward Misawa-san, as well as how her past human relationships have hurt her. I found the ending particularly beautiful, as it describes Tomo-chan realizing she has always been spiritually protected- a reminder that we are not truly alone, even in our darkest moments. Picnic explores how people strive to maintain connections, particularly romantic ones. In Sea Horse, the protagonist is involved in several unfulfilling relationships, specifically marriages, which starkly contrasts with Convenience Store Woman. These superficial marital relationships do not fulfill the emotional connection that one seeks. Instead, they become binding and take away from who she truly is.
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