Meaning: This quote by Kenzaburo Oe, a renowned Japanese writer and Nobel Prize laureate, highlights the paradoxical nature of Japan's moral standing in the context of its historical actions in Asia. The quote suggests that despite the perceived moral strength and innocence of the Japanese people and state, there is an acknowledgment of the stain left by Japan's past history of invading other Asian countries.

Japan's actions during World War II, particularly its invasion and occupation of various Asian countries, have left a complex legacy that continues to shape perceptions of the country. Oe's commentary delves into the moral implications of these historical events and their impact on the contemporary identity of Japan.

The notion of moral props implies a sense of moral foundation or support upon which the Japanese people and state rely. However, Oe challenges the notion of innocence by pointing to the historical realities of Japan's aggression in Asia. This juxtaposition of moral props and stained history underscores the complexity of Japan's moral identity and the tension between its perceived innocence and the darker aspects of its past.

Oe's perspective is significant in the broader discourse on collective memory and historical accountability. It prompts reflection on the ways in which nations confront and reconcile with their past transgressions, especially in the context of moral responsibility and national identity. The quote invites consideration of how a nation's self-image and moral standing can be influenced by historical actions that have caused harm to others.

In contemporary Japan, discussions about the country's wartime history remain sensitive and contentious. The legacy of Japan's actions during World War II continues to be a subject of debate, both domestically and internationally. Oe's quote contributes to this ongoing dialogue by challenging the idea of innocence and emphasizing the enduring impact of Japan's historical transgressions on its moral framework.

Moreover, Oe's position as a prominent Japanese writer lends weight to his commentary on the moral complexities of Japan's history. As a Nobel laureate, his voice carries influence and contributes to shaping public discourse on contentious issues such as historical responsibility and moral reckoning.

Overall, Oe's quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the moral paradoxes embedded in Japan's historical legacy and its implications for the nation's contemporary moral identity. It encourages introspection and dialogue about the intersection of history, morality, and national consciousness, offering a lens through which to contemplate the enduring impact of past actions on collective moral standing.