Reader’s Question:
I’ve been told that it’s embarrassing if I can’t name at least one or two favorite anime. Is that true? I’m not very familiar with anime, but would it be okay if I said something like Doraemon?
It’s Okay to Be Yourself: Embracing Your Anime Knowledge
I recently stumbled upon
a conversation that made me reflect on the pressure we often feel to fit in, especially when it comes to pop culture. A reader had asked if it was embarrassing to not have a favorite anime, mentioning something as classic as “Doraemon.” It struck me how, in this vast world of interests, the fear of judgment can sometimes overshadow genuine passion or the lack thereof. I remember back in my university days, sitting in a cafeteria with friends. The topic of anime came up, and I could feel my palms get sweaty. I wasn’t exactly an aficionado, and I had to admit that my experience was limited to watching a couple of episodes of “Naruto” as a kid. But instead of feeling embarrassed, I shared my perspective honestly. One of my friends, who was a self-proclaimed anime expert, laughed and said, “Hey, we all have our strengths! Yours just happens to be understanding human behavior, not fictional characters with big eyes and wild adventures!” That moment was refreshing. It reminded me that everyone has their own interests, and it’s perfectly okay to not be well-versed in every topic. In fact, I found that being straightforward about my limited knowledge led to some of the most entertaining conversations. My friends would dive into their favorite series, and I would ask questions, learning a bit more about the genre while not feeling pressured to act like an expert. The notion that you have to know the latest shows or characters to fit in is, frankly, a bit ridiculous. As one user aptly pointed out, saying something like, “I don’t watch much anime, but I know a bit about anime songs” is just as valid. It’s a great way to connect without pretending to be someone you’re not. Besides, many people are more interested in the stories behind the anime or the cultural elements than in the shows themselves. And let’s be honest, when you try to fit a mold that doesn’t suit you, it can be exhausting. I recall my first time attending an anime convention, arriving way too early, filled with excitement and a box of snacks in hand, thinking I’d be the first one to explore the booths. Instead, I found myself standing awkwardly in a sea of cosplayers, trying to find common ground with those who were deeply entrenched in the anime world. While it was a bit daunting, I ended up having some delightful conversations about the art of storytelling and character development, which are things I could genuinely relate to. So, if you find yourself struggling to name a favorite anime, remember that it’s absolutely fine. Everyone has different tastes, and you are not obligated to conform to a specific interest. Embrace your unique perspective, and who knows? You might just find a new favorite genre or series along the way. I’d love to hear from you! What are your thoughts on this? Have you ever felt pressured to know more about a particular interest? Share your experiences or tips in the comments below!
