The quote from James Clavell's "Shōgun" highlights the idea of karma and destiny for the characters Mariko and Anjin. Mariko's fate is portrayed as one of noble sacrifice, destined to die in a memorable way, while Anjin is suggested to be bound to his life in a foreign land, unable to return home. Their paths are intertwined with their individual purposes, reflecting a deeper philosophical view of life and duty.

Furthermore, the reference to being Shogun signifies a heavy burden of leadership and power that is accepted by another character, implying that the role comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities. Each character's "karma" shapes their lives and legacies, illustrating the themes of fate and identity in the narrative. This resonates with the broader exploration of cultural and personal conflicts in the story.