Springtime often reminds the upper-middle class, whose lives are bound by uprightness and convention, to appreciate the simple gifts of life; but rarely does the season succeed in rekindling their spirits. The story, "The Japanese Quince," suggests that the vitality of spring is rarely strong enough to free these people from their deep-rooted habits and established routine. In "The Japanese Quince," the protagonist, Mr. Nilson, is presented as a worldly businessman. His life is routine and mundane. Early in the morning, he is already wearing a black frock coat and "Resuming some meditations on the price of Tintos." In addition, Mr. Nilson "[takes] up an ivory backed handlgass and [scrutinises] his face." This gives the image that he is a neat and proper man who can afford luxuries like the "ivory backed handlgass." Mr. Nilson's existence is also presented through the suggestion of his social level. He is well known in "The City," which is the commercial and financial district of London. This tells the reader that he belongs to the financial and business world. However, Mr. Nilson is portrayed as someone who is only concerned with his wealth and stocks. He is so consumed over these things that he rarely notices the beauty of nature.
Being an unfeeling man, Mr. Nilson finds it awkward to spend time appreciating the beauty of nature. He recognizes that it is springtime, which is a season of regeneration. However, he experiences a "peculiar sweetish sensation in the back of his throat and a feeling of emptiness just under his fifth rib." At first, Mr. Nilson suspects that the "queer feeling" is caused by poor health and he takes some deep breaths, as "recommended by his wife's doctor." However, he goes on to realize that the "faint sweet lemony scent" causing the sensation "rather agreeable than otherwise." Therefore, Mr. Nilson's ailment is psychological rather than physical. The unusual feeling at the back of his throat...