Here's a breakdown of the meaning:
* Memoirs: A memoir is a non-fiction account of the author's own life experiences. In this case, the memoir is written from Sayuri's point of view, though it's important to note that Golden is a man writing from a woman's perspective.
* Geisha: A geisha is a traditional Japanese female entertainer trained in the arts of music, dance, conversation, and etiquette. They were historically hired for social occasions and provided companionship for high-paying clients.
Therefore, "Memoirs of a Geisha" can be interpreted as:
* A personal account of a geisha's life: The novel offers a glimpse into the world of geishas, their training, their relationships, and their challenges.
* A story of resilience and self-discovery: Sayuri's journey is one of hardship, but also of finding strength and achieving her dreams despite societal constraints.
* A reflection on Japanese culture: The novel explores aspects of Japanese culture, tradition, and societal norms during a period of significant change in the country.
The novel was later adapted into a popular film in 2005, which further increased its global reach and recognition.