David Guterson writes SNOW FALLING ON CEDARS with descriptive events to convey messages to the readers. What are these messages? As the readers continue to read and look deep into the novel, they will discover valuable meanings that Guterson is willing to express. In fact, these social messages help the novel to proceed from beginning to end. According to Guterson's messages, the two most important points in the novel are the love between two human beings and the racism from two different countries. .
How is love expressed in this novel? The love between Ishmael and Hatsue during their childhood affects their lives later on in the future as well. In order to understand the Guterson's intention, let us examine this novel. During the novel, the readers might notice how Ishmael spends most of his time in life thinking about the love that he has for Hatsue. According to Ishmael, "He gave his whole soul to love. (129)" Ishmael also states, "Love is the strongest thing in the world. (156)" Why does the Guterson put these lines in the novel? He wants us to know the true power of love. It is something one cannot let go so easily both in the heart and mind.
In mourning over his love for Hatsue does not mean Ishmael can get what he wants. Indeed, Ishmael tells Hatsue in the cedar tree that, "If we love each other we"re safe from it all. (156)" Yet, this does not prove that they are safe from everything that can interfere with their love. With this in mind, Guterson points out the significance of fate. Fate is something we cannot control even if we want it to happen. The love between Ishmael and Hatsue is strong. However, their fate does not determine that they can be together forever. Despite the fact that fate is uncontrollable, can racism interfere with the love between two people?.
Can the fact that two people from different ethnic backgrounds living in the same country cause them to hate each other? Guterson, in the novel, uses different situations to display racism.