The novel *Yukiguni* (Snow Country) by Yasunari Kawabata, a Nobel laureate, offers a poignant exploration of intercultural misunderstanding and the limitations of communication in a rapidly changing world. Published in 1937, the novel predates the widespread use of information and communication technology (ICT) as we know it today. Yet, its themes resonate powerfully with contemporary concerns regarding globalization and cross-cultural communication in the digital age. Kawabata masterfully portrays the complex relationship between Shimamura, a sophisticated Tokyo intellectual, and Komako, a geisha in the remote snow-covered region of Japan. Their interactions highlight the profound cultural differences separating them – differences in language, lifestyle, and unspoken social codes. Shimamura’s superficial understanding of Komako’s world leads to misunderstandings and a lack of genuine connection. While he seeks fleeting moments of beauty and escape in Snow Country, he ultimately remains an outsider, unable to fully bridge the cultural chasm. The novel serves as a potent reminder of the challenges inherent in cross-cultural communication, even in the absence of technological barriers. Consider the limitations imposed by differing linguistic nuances and unspoken cultural assumptions. Misinterpretations arise not only from a lack of explicit verbal communication but also from unspoken social conventions. This inherent difficulty is further exacerbated in the contemporary world by the deluge of information and the speed of technological advancement. Modern ICT, while facilitating global communication, can also create new obstacles. The rapid dissemination of information, often without sufficient context or nuance, can lead to the spread of misinformation and stereotypes, potentially deepening cultural misunderstandings. Conversely, carefully curated online communities can foster intercultural dialogue and appreciation, promoting empathy and understanding. The novel's enduring relevance lies in its capacity to illuminate the timeless challenges of intercultural understanding, challenges further complicated by the complexities of the digital age. It prompts us to question how we can best utilize ICT to facilitate genuine cross-cultural communication, avoiding the pitfalls of superficial interactions and fostering more meaningful connections across cultures.
1. According to the passage, what is the primary challenge highlighted in Kawabata’s *Yukiguni* regarding intercultural communication?
2. How does the passage contrast the novel’s depiction of communication with the impact of modern ICT?
3. What is the passage's central argument regarding the relevance of *Yukiguni* in the digital age?
4. The word "poignant" in the first paragraph most nearly means: