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by Charles Tan
By now, most of you know that there is a huge culture barrier between Japan and the countries influenced by the western world. However, there are still some things which are universal, like love. Despite its presence in all parts of the world, there is the undeniable fact that there is a difference in the way it is presented or interpreted, depending on where you grew up. When it comes to anime, some things may still continue to baffle us and the love theme is no exception.
First off, there are various ways to say the word love. Just as we can use synonyms like care and compassion, or express it in a different way like saying “my heart deeply belongs to you,” there are also various ways the Japanese say they love each other, so don’t be surprised when you read the subtitles about loving a person yet hear different words when watching various shows.
Second, you should understand that Japanese culture is very different from ours. They have a history known for being conservative and honorable. One cannot just outspokenly speak out their feelings. Did you know it is inappropriate to touch someone of the opposite sex in public? Also, the practice of something like an arranged marriage was done in Japan’s past. To improve one’s status in life or to secure an alliance, marriage was the key to obtaining this, much like the history of most cultures. It should not surprise you if this practice has been included as plot in Japanese shows like drama, comedy, and yes, anime.
Third, it is worthy to note that the practice of love is very different. For one thing, spring and fall are the wedding seasons in Japan. And you all thought that love only occurred during February. Also, the customs are very different. In Japan, it is usually the girl who gives chocolate to the guy she is interested, in contrast with what we practice wherein the guy who courts the girl is the one who gives the flowers and chocolates. However, don’t let that itty-bitty fact make your ideas about love shift drastically. The guy still courts the girl, unless it’s an arranged marriage.
Fourth, Japan has its own myths and stories regarding love. There is one belief that two people destined to marry each other have a red line tied to one of their fingers and the other end is attached to their partner. Also, supernatural creatures have been known to fall in love with mortals. Foxes, badgers, and other shape shifting creatures take on the guise of women with the purpose of either luring men or because they are truly in love with that person. Also, a reason for being a ghost is because of an unobtainable love or a tragic one, causing one to not have peace even in the afterlife.
These are just a few glimpses of what obstacles love faces in Japan. While love is a universal thing, it is worth noting that it is never easy and no matter from what culture you come from, you will always face tribulations. After all, it is its mystery and intricacies that draws us to it, making it well worth after all the hardships and sufferings.
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