Ogai simultaneously published a self-commentary 'Takasebune Engi' which caused controversy about the theme of the story: Whether it was to be satisfied with 'one's lot in life,' 'euthanasia,' or both.
鴎外は同時に自作解説「高瀬舟縁起」を発表しており、これによって長らくテーマは「知足」か「安楽死」か、それとも両方かで揉めてきた。