Get Out of His Way

There is a charming story to the effect that, many centuries ago, people from an alien world landed on the Earth. Finding their surroundings agreeable, they decided to stay, and—to facilitate the transition—changed their appearance to resemble as closely as possible their new neighbors: the Chinese. Thus came into being the people of Japan.

It is as good a theory as any other. As an indefatigable tourist, I have become familiar with many foreign lands. Some I have grown to love, many others to appreciate. Without ever forgetting how hard it is to comprehend the true inwardness of another human being, let alone another country, I honestly believe I can claim to have achieved at least a basic understanding of most of the places I have visited. But after eight trips to Japan, I ruefully confess that the Japanese still baffle me.

WA

About the Author

William A. Rusher

There is a charming story to the effect that, many centuries ago, people from an alien world landed on the Earth. Finding their surroundings agreeable, they decided to stay, and—to facilitate the transition—changed their appearance to resemble as closely as possible their new neighbors: the Chinese. Thus came into being the people of Japan.

It is as good a theory as any other. As an indefatigable tourist, I have become familiar with many foreign lands. Some I have grown to love, many others to appreciate. Without ever forgetting how hard it is to comprehend the true inwardness of another human being, let alone another country, I honestly believe I can claim to have achieved at least a basic understanding of most of the places I have visited. But after eight trips to Japan, I ruefully confess that the Japanese still baffle me.