Page "Pacific Overtures" Paragraph 13

Conceived as a sort of Japanese playwright's version of an American musical about American influences on Japan, Pacific Overtures begins its journey to the present day in July 1853.

Since the foreigners were driven from the island empire, explains the Reciter, there has been nothing to threaten the changeless cycle of their days.

Elsewhere, wars are fought and machines are rumbling but in Nippon they plant rice, exchange bows and enjoy peace and serenity.