Kitchen

Use these essay questions as writing and critical thinking exercises for all levels of writers, and to build their literary analysis skills by requiring textual references throughout the essay. 

Scaffolded/Short-Answer Essay Questions

Student Prompt: Write a short (1-3 paragraph) response using one of the below bulleted outlines. Cite details from the play over the course of your response that serve as examples and support.

1. Eriko insists that the best way for Mikage to move on from grief is to take care of something besides herself.

• How is her decision to bring Yuichi katsudon emblematic of her embracing this advice? (topic sentence)
• What does her relationship with Yuichi mean for her process of moving on from the losses she’s experienced?
• How does this relate to the themes from the novel?

2. Eriko’s transgender identity is treated matter-of-factly by the characters in Kitchen, but it would be unusual for a transgender person to find such easy acceptance in 1980s Japan.

• What is Kitchen trying to say with Eriko’s identity and character? (topic sentence)
• How does Eriko embrace her transgender identity, and what does it mean to her? (You might also address Hiirage’s cross-dressing).
• How does Eriko’s transition help her heal from the death of her wife?

3. Urara is a strange, beguiling presence in Satsuki’s life.

• Why is Urara’s behavior so intriguing to Satsuki? (topic sentence)
• How does her experience with Urura help her cope with her grief?
• How does this Friendship fit with the overall theme of moving on? What does it take to move on?

Full Essay Assignments

Student Prompt: Write a structured and well-developed essay. Include a thesis statement, at least three main points supported by text details, and a conclusion.

1. The two stories in this book are not linked by plot or character, yet they function as companion pieces. In a comparative essay, look at how the themes of each story are interrelated. How does looking at these pieces side by side reveal a deeper understanding of Yoshimoto’s intentions with regard to the process of moving on from grief?

2. Mikage has a complicated, difficult-to-articulate understanding of kitchens as a space of creativity and comfort. Looking at the use of kitchens as a symbol, make a case for the overall meaning of kitchens in the novel, particularly relating to either the theme of Gender Roles or Finding One’s Purpose in Life. How is the relationship between Mikage and kitchens part of her overall sense of purpose?

3. Satsuki sees many similarities between herself and Hiirage, and her brief friendship with Urara has a profound effect on her. What is “Moonlight Shadow” trying to say about the role Friendship plays in grief? What connects these characters and allows them to begin the process of healing?