If anyone were to argue that Japanese animation isn’t the most powerful thing since the Hydrogen atom-bomb, I’d ask them to take a reality check. It’s instinctual to show a facade and deny our emotions. We all were taught this kind of “strength”, but it is jaded to think that this is how we should live our lives. I’ve learned through anime that true strength is much more honest.
In the episode Bubble Buddy, SpongeBob and friends come to a hilarious conflict over an imaginary friend. As they all discover, it is part of living to be loved and respected. But why does the narrative have to end there? Anime is about getting the whole picture, because everyone has their own story. Where does Bubble Buddy go at the end of the episode? Why doesn’t he like diet shampoo? It is through these facets that our own lives are reflected. If you don’t believe me, try writing your own story and imagining what each character is thinking. You may be surprised.
Without doubt, my favorite anime is D(ear) Grayman, an unfinished masterpiece by Katsura Hoshino. Her notable work has spanned over three decades, with two hundred and forty – something chapters. Although Katsura’s health is of concern, the quality of the material has only increased in time.
If you are thinking, “who could ever read all that?”, the answer may surprise you. Not only have I read the material front to back, and eagerly await the next chunk, I imagine you could too. If you add up the time checking your Facebook accounts and flipping idly through television channels, I’m sure you can find some time.
A well written anime doesn’t really show its colors until around chapter 50. In the case of Dear Grayman, the true brilliance of the show is there for you to discover from chapter 1 onward, but only if you search for it. It’s much more than a story, it’s an entire world to discover.
Anime offers the ability to live and love another person we might never know in real life. Their successes and failures remind us of our own fortunate lives. We live in the present moment, moving
ever forward.
Brandon Matthew Hehn is making a name for himself by challenging the stigma of mental health. He is passionate for helping others discover their innate talents.
