An artist of the floating world - Vocabulary

Deceit

"A weak streak that would give him a tendency towards slothfulness and deceit." ( p.45 )

  Masuji's father and mother, Sachiko, are talking about the wandering priests.  The priest who is a thin old man with only one hand, talked to them about their son when Masuji was born. The reason why Masuji's father said the word 'deceit' is that his father didn't want Masuji to be an artist. So, he seemed to point out Masuji's weakness.

Acknowledge

Surely, it's only right they should acknowledge their responsibility. ( p.56 )  

   Masuji and Miyake are talking about their president's suicide. Masuji doesn't understand why those who fought and worked for their country during the war killed themselves in apology. But Miyake thought that giving up their lives is good way to take their responsibility, he also said It is great waste. Ono said 'acknowledge their responsibility', because he thought that war criminals have to do more right work rather than suicide. He seemed to afraid to take his responsibility.