Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of companionship in marriage, particularly in old age, highlighting that true support comes from one's partner rather than children or external caregivers [4][10][20]. Group 1 - The story of an elderly couple in the hospital illustrates the deep bond and care they share, with the husband devotedly attending to his wife's needs [6][9]. - The narrative reflects on the reality that as people age, the significance of their partner becomes more apparent, especially during times of illness [10][20]. - The article references interviews with elderly couples, showcasing that enduring companionship is often the only constant in their lives as they face aging and health challenges [9][10]. Group 2 - The experiences of a doctor reveal that many children, despite their best intentions, are often unable to provide adequate care for aging parents due to their own life commitments [10][19]. - The article discusses a poignant case where a son, despite having financial means, chose to abandon his ailing father, highlighting the emotional toll of familial relationships in old age [12][14]. - It emphasizes that true companionship is irreplaceable, and love is the most reliable support as one ages [20][30]. Group 3 - The documentary "Dear, Don't Cross That River" is mentioned, showcasing a couple who have been together for 76 years, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment found in their companionship [21][22]. - The article illustrates how couples share simple joys and support each other through health challenges, reinforcing the idea that companionship is invaluable in later years [24][30]. - It concludes that the essence of a good marriage is the mutual support and understanding developed over decades, which becomes crucial in old age [54][58].

Core Perspective - The article explores the contrast between idealized romantic narratives in games and the harsh realities of modern dating and marriage, particularly through the lens of female players who engage with otome games like "恋与深空" [2][5][19] Group 1: Game Features and Marketing - The 4.0 version of "恋与深空" features a wedding-themed event that enhances player immersion with realistic companionship functions and collaborations with media and popular artists [2] - The game aims to provide players with a tangible sense of romance, contrasting with their real-life experiences [2][5] Group 2: Player Experiences and Realities - Players like 小恩 find it difficult to separate the game's romantic ideals from their real-life experiences, leading to feelings of fear and frustration when faced with the realities of arranged dating [4][6] - Many players experience societal pressure regarding marriage, often feeling like passive participants in their own romantic lives due to family expectations [5][6] Group 3: Emotional Impact of Family Dynamics - 小恩's experiences with her parents' troubled marriage shape her views on relationships, leading her to have low expectations for her own romantic future [7][19] - The frequency of arranged dates creates tension within her family, highlighting the generational conflict regarding marriage expectations [8][19] Group 4: Coping Mechanisms and Personal Growth - Players like 木木 use otome games as a means of emotional support, finding solace in the characters and narratives that offer a sense of understanding and validation [12][14] - The article illustrates how these games help players navigate their feelings about relationships, allowing them to assert their own standards and desires in the face of societal pressures [16][21]

Core Viewpoint - The book "Can We Still Be Family?" by two Japanese women from "non-traditional families" explores themes of family, intimate relationships, love, marriage, and female growth through their candid dialogues [1][3]. Group 1: Authors and Background - The book features conversations between actress and writer Yayako Uchida and neuroscientist Nobuko Nakano, who share their unique and challenging family backgrounds [1][3]. - Yayako Uchida, daughter of the late actress Kiki Kirin, grew up in a celebrity family marked by her parents' separation before her birth and her father's tumultuous lifestyle [1][4]. - Nobuko Nakano experienced a cold and communicative relationship with her parents, leading to her early independence [1][3]. Group 2: Themes of Relationships - The dialogues reflect on their experiences with family and marriage, revealing the complexities of their relationships and the impact of their upbringing [3][4]. - Uchida married at 19 and had three children, but faced significant differences with her husband, while Nakano's marriage involved a "weekend couple" and child-free lifestyle [3][4]. - The book emphasizes the importance of communication in relationships, contrasting it with the silence that can lead to deeper issues [11]. Group 3: Insights on Parenting and Family Dynamics - The authors discuss the challenges of parenting, highlighting the potential for becoming "toxic parents" due to immaturity and lack of preparation [10][12]. - Nakano notes that the separation between parents and children is a painful yet necessary part of growth, while Uchida reflects on the void left by her parents' passing [9][10]. - The book predicts that by 2024, half of the Japanese population may choose not to marry, reflecting changing societal norms around family and relationships [10][13]. Group 4: Cultural Reflections - The book has resonated with readers in Japan, who find common ground in the authors' experiences, suggesting that non-traditional family backgrounds do not preclude a fulfilling life [13]. - The discussions also touch on societal expectations and the evolving nature of marriage, with younger generations approaching relationships with caution [12][13].