Bitterness of Youth

Akira, an elementary school student with no parents, is living as a guest at his relatives’ house. Although he had been under the protection of his kind aunt, everything changed when his uncle lost his job, bringing the peaceful days to an end. “Even if it’s lonely, it’s better to be alone. When you’re alone, no one can betray you.” This bittersweet story of Akira’s boyhood reveals the reasons why he became an embalmer. Also included is a short story depicting Akira’s college years and his friendship with Pat.