About Jacob Campbell

Arthur Golden’s ‘Memoirs of a Geisha’ is a beautifully written novel, with an impressive use of imagery and detail. But his lack of full historical context on the geisha profession is noticeable. 

‘Memoirs of a Geisha’ is a memorable novel that takes place in Japan around World War II. It features historically important locations and delves into geisha traditions.

Three of the most prominent themes of ‘Memoirs of a Geisha’ are self-identity, tradition/customs, and free will. Sayuri’s desire for free will and self-identity clashed with the traditions and customs of Japan in the early twentieth century. 

There are many major and minor characters in Arthur Golden’s ‘Memoirs of a Geisha’, such as Sayuri, Mother, the Chairman, and many more that tie this novel together. 

There is a similarity and connection between the main themes when analyzing Arthur Golden’s novel ‘Memoirs of a Geisha’, all about self-understanding.

‘Memoirs of a Geisha’ by Arthur Golden details the life of Sayuri. Once a daughter to a poor fisherman, Sayuri blossoms into one of Japan’s most distinguished geisha.