Novel: When I Whistle

Introduction
"When I Whistle" is a novel composed by Japanese author Shusaku Endo in 1974. The story mostly revolves around the life of Ozu, a middle-aged corporate employee, his family, and his experiences with the changes in post-war Japanese society. The unique reviews styles of memory, disillusionment, the pursuit of power and development, and the impact of social modifications on human values.

Plot
The narrative follows Ozu's mundane life as he moves in between the past and present, primarily through flashbacks and reveries. As a child, Ozu is deeply affected by two influential figures in his life - his school teacher, Aiko, and his friend, Flatfish. They both aspire to alter the Japanese society for the better. Unfortunately, the destruction of World War II left them disillusioned and unable to accomplish their dreams.

In today, Ozu discovers himself adrift in post-war Japan, typically annoyed with his partner, Keiko, and their two children, Tatsuya and Eiko. Tatsuya is a physician at University Hospital, while Eiko is a trainee fascinated with the idealistic young architect, Hiroshi.

As the story progresses, Ozu typically thinks of Aiko, and we find out about their relationship and her influence on his life. Nevertheless, after the war, Aiko's wish for social modification are crushed, and she weds an old, sickly male, accepting her fate.

The crucial subplot of the novel involves Tatsuya treating an aged, terminally ill patient, Ueda, who needs surgical treatment. Tatsuya acknowledges that the operation only serves to lengthen Ueda's suffering and will not offer any meaningful improvement in his quality of life. However, Tatsuya's superior, Dr. Ikehata, is identified to utilize Ueda's case to advance the hospital's medical developments.

Themes and Symbolism
Among the main themes of "When I Whistle" is the disillusionment that follows youth idealism, which is depicted through the lives of Ozu, Aiko, and Flatfish. All 3 characters experience the loss of their dreams and hopes, mainly due to the impact of World War II and the subsequent societal changes.

Another important theme of the book is the pursuit of development at the cost of human worths. This is exemplified by Dr. Ikehata's insistence on carrying out the surgery on Ueda, regardless of knowing that it will not enhance his life in any significant way. The healthcare facility's desire for power and development is prioritized over the ethical and thoughtful treatment of clients.

The problem of principles and responsibility in the medical profession is likewise examined in the unique, as both Tatsuya and Hiroshi need to grapple with the consequences of their actions concerning Ueda's surgery. They battle with an ethical dilemma, torn in between their professional tasks and their individual beliefs and values.

The whistle, as a sign within the story, represents a connection to the past and memories of a lost world. Ozu's memories of his childhood are activated when he has fun with a whistle that was a gift from Aiko to her son. The title of the book likewise alludes to the idea of reliving childhood innocence and simplicity through whistling.

Conclusion
"When I Whistle" supplies readers with a thought-provoking assessment of post-war Japanese society, where materialistic development and the pursuit of power have actually obscured human values, compassion, and ethical obligation. As we witness the journey of Ozu, Aiko, Flatfish, Tatsuya, and Hiroshi, we are reminded that losing sight of the past can result in disillusionment and the abandonment of our suitables.