Reader’s Question:
I’m really interested in becoming an otaku, but I struggle with things like gap moe and ASMR, which makes it hard for me to fully enjoy it. What should I do if I can’t get into the 2D world?
Finding Your Own Path in the Otaku World
Hey there! So,
I was reading this question about becoming an otaku, and it really struck a chord with me. I remember when I first dipped my toes into the world of anime and manga, feeling overwhelmed by all the terms and trends—like gap moe and ASMR—just like our friend here. It can feel like everyone around you is in on some secret, and you’re just standing there scratching your head. I grew up in a really unique cultural mix, being born in California and raised in Osaka. I remember my first experience watching anime in Japan, sitting in a friend’s living room with a pile of snacks—seriously, I always went overboard with the snacks! We were watching this classic series, and I was laughing at parts that I thought were funny, but my friends were bursting with laughter over bits that I totally missed. It was a hilarious moment of realization that humor can be so subjective, and that’s what makes it all the more delightful. But what really got me hooked was the community. I recall going to a local anime convention with my buddies and the energy in the air was electric. Everyone was just so passionate and excited about the same things, whether it was discussing the latest episodes or dressing up as their favorite characters. There was this one guy dressed as a character I didn’t recognize, and he was so into it—he even did the character’s signature pose every time someone asked for a picture! It made me realize that being an otaku isn’t about fitting into a mold; it’s about embracing what you love. Now, about the whole “gap moe” and ASMR thing—those are just facets of a much bigger picture. If you’re struggling to get into those specific trends, don’t sweat it! Just explore what resonates with you. Maybe it’s the heartwarming stories of slice-of-life anime or the thrill of action-packed shounen series. It’s totally okay to not vibe with every trend out there. One of my favorite things to do is to dive deep into a new series and get lost in its world. I remember binge-watching a show late into the night, snacks scattered around me, and I laughed so hard that I woke up my kid! It was one of those moments where I thought, “Wow, this is what it’s all about—just enjoying the ride.” And you know, the best part about being an otaku is that it’s incredibly personal. You don’t have to adhere to any specific criteria. Just follow your interests, and don’t be afraid to share them with others. Create your own path and embrace what you love, quirks and all. So, if you’re feeling a bit lost, take a step back and think about what you genuinely enjoy. It might be the art style, the storytelling, or even just the way certain characters make you feel. There’s no wrong way to be an otaku! I’d love to hear your thoughts! What are your favorite series or aspects of anime and manga that you enjoy? Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments!
