Okay, let’s talk about March Comes In Like a Lion. It's a beautiful anime, full of shogi and serious emotional depth. But it's also got this surprising way of dealing with tough topics, even, dare I say, death.
The Shadow of Kyouko
Enter Kyouko. Her presence looms large, even though we mostly see her in flashbacks. She's Rei's adoptive sister, a complicated character who's fiercely competitive and, let's just say, not exactly the easiest person to be around.
Her story isn’t a straightforward, happily-ever-after tale. She's struggling, dealing with unfulfilled dreams and a lot of inner turmoil. It’s these imperfections that make her so compelling.
A Death Off-Screen
Here's the thing: Kyouko's death isn't some dramatic, tear-jerking scene we witness directly. It happens off-screen, a car accident mentioned almost in passing. Wait, what? Is this supposed to be sad?
It’s almost... understated. Which, in a way, makes it even more impactful. The focus isn't on the *how* of her death, but on the *aftermath*.
Think about it: the show is more interested in how Rei and the people around her cope with the loss. It’s about the ripple effect, the long-term consequences of grief and trauma.
Finding the Light
Instead of dwelling on the tragedy itself, March Comes In Like a Lion uses Kyouko's death to explore themes of healing and acceptance. It's about how loss shapes us, but doesn't necessarily define us. It's not about glorifying sadness.
Rei, especially, is forced to confront his own guilt and feelings of inadequacy in the wake of her passing. It’s a slow, messy process. It takes the support of others to get through this darkness.
The Kawamoto sisters, with their warmth and quirky personalities, become a lifeline for Rei. They offer him a sense of belonging and a safe space to process his emotions. They bring him home.
Humor in the Face of Grief
And here's where the show's unique tone shines through. Amidst all the heavy stuff, there's genuine humor. Silly gags, heartwarming moments, and characters who, despite their flaws, are utterly endearing.
March Comes In Like a Lion reminds us that even in the face of profound loss, life goes on. There's still room for laughter, for connection, and for finding joy in the small things. It isn't a constant state of sadness, although grief is natural.
The series isn't afraid to mix the bitter with the sweet. It acknowledges the pain of Kyouko's death, but it also celebrates the resilience of the human spirit. It's about moving forward, not forgetting.
A Different Kind of Story
So, the next time you think about March Comes In Like a Lion, remember Kyouko. Remember her absence, but also remember the light that shines through in its wake.
Her death is not just a plot point. It’s a catalyst for growth, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there's always hope. It is used to explore the world, and the minds of the characters.
And who knows, maybe you'll even find yourself laughing a little bit along the way.
