It was the most ordinary thing in the world, but it felt like we were lovers or something, because in Japan dads don't generally hug and kiss their kids. Don't ask me why. They just don't. But we kissed and hugged because we were American, at least in our hearts, and then we'd both step away really fast in case anyone was watching.
The narrator reflects on the unusual warmth of physical affection shared between a father and child, which contrasts with cultural expectations in Japan. Despite the ordinary nature of this intimacy, it felt special and intimate, reminiscent of a romantic relationship. This shows a clash between traditional norms and personal expressions of love.
The act of hugging and kissing is portrayed as a small but significant rebellion against the societal norms that dictate emotional distance between fathers and their children in Japan. The family embraces their American influences, allowing for this tenderness while maintaining a sense of awareness about their surroundings, which highlights the complexities of cultural identity and family dynamics.
