Reader’s Question:
I’m a 30-year-old woman. I love manga and anime, but sometimes when I’m discussing them with others or watching analysis videos on YouTube, I find myself thinking, “But in the end, this is just a fictional story…” It’s hard to explain, but even though it’s a story created by
an author, I feel embarrassed about getting caught up in theories and plot twists. I wonder why I’m putting so much effort into thinking about something that’s just make-believe. Is there anyone else who feels this way?
Finding Meaning in Fiction
Hey there! I totally get where you’re coming from. It’s funny how we can get so wrapped up in fictional worlds, right? I remember a time when I was binge-watching a popular anime series, completely glued to the screen. I was so invested in the characters’ journeys that I found myself having a mini existential crisis after finishing the season. I thought, “What am I doing with my life?” It’s just a story, after all! But here’s the thing—stories, even if they’re entirely fictional, can resonate with us in unexpected ways. They can reflect our own experiences, emotions, or aspirations. I mean, take a moment to think about your favorite anime or manga. What did you love about it? Was it the humor, the drama, or maybe the friendships? For me, it’s often the comedic moments that hit home. I remember laughing so hard at a manzai skit that I almost spilled my snacks everywhere! Those moments are real, even if the characters aren’t. When I dive into theories and plot twists, I find myself not just analyzing the story but also exploring my own feelings and thoughts. It’s like a mirror reflecting parts of my life. Sure, the author crafted the ending, but the journey to get there is where we form connections. It’s like when I talk to my friends about our favorite shows. We share our theories, and in those discussions, we often end up revealing a bit about ourselves—our hopes, fears, and sometimes even our silly quirks. And yes, there’s that nagging feeling of “But why am I putting so much energy into this?” I’ve felt that too! Yet, I think it’s perfectly okay to indulge in these fictional worlds. They offer us a space to explore ideas and emotions that we might not confront in our daily lives. Plus, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love some good escapism?
Embracing the Magic
So, if you ever feel embarrassed about getting caught up in theories or plot discussions, remember that it’s all part of the experience. It’s a way to connect with others who share your passion, and it can even lead to some pretty hilarious conversations. I mean, I once debated with a friend about which character would win in a fight, and we ended up laughing so hard that we lost track of time! I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. Do you have any favorite moments from a show or manga that made you feel deeply connected? Or maybe you have a quirky theory that you’re just bursting to share? Let’s chat in the comments below!
