Hills of Silver Ruins (3/32)

Since gaining prominence in the mid-20th century (bolstered by the rise of nihonjinron), hon'ne (本音) and tatemae (建前) have evolved as key concepts in explaining Japanese sociology and psychology.

A person's hon'ne [true feelings and desires] may be contrary to what is expected by society or what is required according to one's position and circumstances, and they are often kept hidden, except with one's closest friends. Tatemae [façade] is what is expected by society and required according to one's position and circumstances, and these may or may not match one's hon'ne.