Memoirs of a Geisha

The question of whether our fate is predetermined or whether we control our own destiny recurs frequently throughout the novel, and Sayuri, in particular, finds herself torn between the two outlooks. 

Mameha emphasizes the importance of destiny, and, like other geisha, will not make a decision without consulting her almanac and fortune-teller. Significantly, she highlights the importance of accepting reality and the path that life has in store for you, rather than trying to change it. For instance, she deems Sayuri’s escape attempt unwise, because her almanac advised that it was a bad day for anyone with Sayuri’s zodiac sign to travel. However, she also points to the flexibility, power and cleverness associated with water, noting that water can sometimes break through a dam. 

Mameha plan to undermine Hatsumomo involves skill and forethought, and this is an approach that pays off in the end. Thus, Mameha does not believe in being passive, nor does she regard people as utterly powerless. Her view is that one can shape one’s life within certain parameters but that it is important to be prudent rather than impulsive. She likewise believes that one cannot change the overall trajectory of one’s life but must defer to fate.