How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
Henry nodded, taking the handle of the little red wagon, heading for home, down the darkened, empty streets of Japantown. Pulling behind him a lifetime of memories. Memories that he'd hide, and a secret he would keep, somewhere back home. (21.52)
Keiko hasn't just entrusted Henry with some old pictures—she's entrusted him with her family's entire history. Without his help, they'll lose all mementos of shared memories and long-lost family members. No pressure…
Quote #8
"I have though about her." Henry searched for the words, unsure of Marty's reaction. Knowing how much his son loved Ethel, not wanting to trample her memory. "I have thought about her." All the time. Right now, in fact. It would be wrong to tell you that, wouldn't it? "But that was a long time ago. People grow up. They marry, start families. Life goes on." (33.22)
Henry tries not to dwell too much on the past because it's not helpful, especially when he has his own family to care for. Even though he still loves Keiko, he can't let his love get in the way of his current life.
Quote #9
When she asked, "What's become of the old neighborhood—is it still deserted?" he could only say, "It's changed. New businesses have moved in. New people." She seemed to know what that meant. No one seemed to care what happened to what was left of Nihonmachi. (45.11)
As much as Henry wants things to go back to normal, he knows that Nihonmachi will never be the same. The Japantown that he knew as a child is gone forever, and now he just has the memories.