Reader’s Question:
I’ve been watching Tokyo Ghoul (re:13) and I have a question. Why did Arima commit suicide during his fight with Kaneki? Also, I’ve seen some places where it says “Arima > Kaneki,” but isn’t Kaneki stronger than Arima now?
Understanding Arima’s Decision: A Dive into Tokyo Ghoul’s Complexities
Ah, Tokyo
Ghoul—a series that never fails to provoke thought and stir emotions. I remember binge-watching it late into the night, snacks piled high beside me, only to realize I had devoured an entire bag of chips by episode three. But let’s dive into the question at hand: Why did Arima commit suicide during his fight with Kaneki? From my perspective, Arima Takashi’s decision seems to stem from a deep sense of resignation and acceptance of his fate. The battle with Kaneki was not just a physical confrontation; it was symbolic of a larger struggle between their ideologies. Arima, despite his formidable skills, appeared to be aware that there was no way he could truly win against Kaneki, especially given the latter’s evolution into a power that transcended human limits. It’s as if he reached a point where victory meant nothing to him, leading to that tragic moment of self-sacrifice. I often think about how sometimes, in life, we encounter situations where we just have to let go. It’s somewhat relatable, isn’t it? Like that time I had to face a particularly challenging exam—I studied for hours but knew deep down that the material just wasn’t clicking. In that moment, I wished I could have the same clarity as Arima, to understand when to fight and when to step back. Now, regarding the debate of “Arima > Kaneki,” I can see why some fans might cling to this idea. Arima was incredibly skilled and had years of experience, but we must consider the context of his abilities. With his accelerated aging due to being half-human and half-ghoul, and with glaucoma impairing his vision, it’s reasonable to conclude that he was indeed on a decline. This decline could have impacted his performance against Kaneki, who had grown stronger and more resilient. It’s like comparing two athletes at different points in their careers—one might be in their peak, while the other is grappling with injuries. Reflecting on these characters and their struggles makes me appreciate the depth of the narrative. It’s not just about strength; it’s about the choices we make and the circumstances that shape those choices. So, what do you think? Have you had moments where you felt like Arima, understanding it was time to let go? Or perhaps you’ve faced a Kaneki-like challenge, where you had to rise above your circumstances? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences, so feel free to share them in the comments!
