the character of prof. somiya represents, according to this interpretation, a further evolution of the “non-patriarchal” patriarch. although shukichi wields considerable moral influence over his daughter through their close relationship, that relationship is "strikingly nonoppressive." one commentator refers to shukichi and his friend, professor onodera, as men who are "very much at peace, very much aware of themselves and their place in the world," and are markedly different from stereotypes of fierce japanese males promulgated by american films during and after the world war.