In Yukio Mishima's classic 20th-century novel, The Sound of Waves, one might initially have some misconceptions about the message of the story. Quite simply, it's easy to spot some seemingly sexist elements and immediately judge that Mishima was a misogynist and conspired to display it in his writing. With the constant objectification of women, women's inferior domestic roles, and patriarchal domination in the novel, it is not difficult to make this judgment. However, after examining some of the literary elements of the text, it becomes clear that the idea of ​​sexism is not what the novel aims to highlight. Through the use of imagery, syntax, and characterization, Mishima communicates a sincere tone that lets the reader know that the novel is not an attack on the female gender; he is simply trying to convey the idea that growing up is a turbulent process for everyone, as shown by his characters Shinji and Hatsue. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original EssayThe first literary element, and perhaps the easiest for the reader to see, is the use of visual images. In The Sound of the Waves, mentions of nature are common and symbolic. The story begins with an image of serenity. Mishima speaks of the “incredibly beautiful views” from the cliffs of Uta-Jima and the “calm seas” (Mishima 4). To begin with, the descriptions not only set a picturesque scene, but also symbolize the purity and innocence of Shinji and Hatsue before their departure into adulthood. Additionally, the narration from the perspective of the cliffs suggests that the story may be about to experience a downfall – much like the ups and downs of aging. The emotional rollercoaster of maturity is again supported by descriptive images of the natural setting surrounding the adolescents. When Hatsue and Shinij meet secretly, the storm outside is representative of the growing excitement and nervousness the two are feeling. As “the ground swells” and “the beach roars with the incoming waves,” the reader can imagine Hatsue and Shinji’s emotions swelling and roaring just like the storm (64). This use of imagery reinforces Mishima's heartfelt tone, as he is so honest to the story that he connects it to the natural forces surrounding the lovers. Mishima's direct tone is again supported by effective use of syntax. At the beginning of the novel, Mishima describes the first meeting between Hatsue and Shinji. He takes the opportunity to inform the reader of the physical appearances of the two protagonists. Through the use of a parallel structure, it is clear that Mishima is giving both characters a fair and equal evaluation; he does not emphasize the woman's faults any more than Shinji's. First, Shinji's is described in detail. Mishima writes: “He was tall and well-built beyond his years” (6). Soon after, in describing Hatsue, Mishima points out a trait that highlights her strength—or lack of strength—and might give the reader the impression that the story favors men. He writes “her forehead was damp with sweat” (7), which could suggest that the text aims to show the weakness of women. Mishima, however, parallels this description when he points out a flaw in Shinji and an advantage in Hatsue. He speaks of "the healthy color of his skin," right after describing how Shinji's skin "cannot be darkened by the sun than his own has been" (6-7). The structure of these descriptions makes it easy to see that the novel is not intended for just one genre. Mishima is honest about.