Memory, Self-Deception and Denial in Kazuo Ishiguro’s the Remains of the Day

Abstract

Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel The Remains of the Day delves into the intricacies of memory, self-deception, and denial through the lens of its protagonist, Stevens, a devoted butler. This article meticulously examines the interplay of these themes within the novel, elucidating their profound impact on Stevens’ identity and worldview. By meticulously dissecting Ishiguro’s narrative, the paper elucidates how memory functions as a tool for constructing personal narratives, particularly evident in Stevens’ selective recollection of events to maintain his idealized butler persona. Furthermore, it explores Stevens’ unwavering commitment to duty, which leads to his blindness towards his employer’s moral failings and the subsequent isolation and regret he faces. Through a comprehensive analysis, this paper argues that Stevens’ self-deception and denial emanate from a quest for dignity and purpose, underscoring Ishiguro’s critique of sacrificing integrity for societal conformity. Moreover, it elucidates how Ishiguro’s exploration resonates with broader philosophical discourse on memory, identity, and ethical considerations, accentuating the imperative of acknowledging past errors for individual growth and societal advancement.

Keywords

• memory
• self-deception
• denial
• unreliable narrator
• kazuo ishiguro