Hajime Isayama’s unprophetic narrative attracted audiences from all over the world and sold over 100 million copies. His manga, Attack on Titan, had made a massive feat and worldwide influence with its “Humanity vs Titans” plot. The series also maintained an appearance on the New York Times Best-Seller List. But the series had encountered the furies of criticism because of its controversial conclusion.
Isayama had to face the quarrelsome greeting for the manga’s ending during his first debut in NYC, United States. It marked a remarkable moment between the manga’s creator and his audiences. Fans were gratified by his openness to criticism which otherwise would have put intense intimidation on the manga creator’s face.
Hajime Isayama’s Burden of Creation vs the Toll of Expectations
When Hajime Isayama went onto the stage at The Javitz’s Special Events Hall, to his surprise he was welcomed with a standing ovation. It was an unheard occasion for such a Japanese guest. Kodansha had shared a statement from Isayama which had made a heartfelt plea via AnimeNewsNetwork. It stated:
I am aware that the ending of Attack on Titan was quite controversial. I am open to receiving people’s honest opinions. However, I would appreciate it if you’d be kind to me.
This plea spoke about the weight of expectation he had been carrying throughout the creation of Attack on Titan. During that panel, he revealed, that from the beginning, he had already had an idea of the series’ conclusion. But this ultimate journey was filled with conflicts and uncertainty.
He admitted that:
I still have my doubts within myself if I did it right… I still struggle with this point and I’m really sorry about it.
His susceptibility had evoked an outpouring of support from the audience. His emotional toll on creating the series became more evident through his responses. He was asked whether he was going to make a new manga or not. He candidly responded “No. Sorry.” He was also uncertain about what freedom meant to him or perhaps disappointed following the series’ ending.
A Shift in Fan-Creators Relationship Through a New Perspective
At Anime NYC, Isayama’s experience offered a new diversified relationship between the creators and the fanbase. Even though Attack on Titan‘s ending had caused huge controversy, he was overwhelmed by the support demonstrated by the fans. They valued his creative journey and the efforts he had made for the final conclusion.
When I was carrying those heavy feelings and was in a rut for a long time until about yesterday. I had signings and got to talk to fans one-on-one and many told me the ending was awesome. Those kind words really hit me and I feel great gratitude to come to NYC and to meet you all. It was a great experience for me.
His feelings, kindness, and openness to criticism had created a space for discussions that challenged the concluding narrative. It evoked a sense that behind every manga panel was a human who was struggling with pressure and self-doubts. His words and responses to the fans had encouraged them to see the ending from a new perspective.
Hajime Isayama’s debut at Anime NYC had brought the creator and his fans face-to-face. It improved and humanized the manga’s creative process. As Attack on Titan‘s legacy evolved, it might be a moment to remember as a turning point in fans’ and creator’s splendid interaction.
Attack on Titan is available to watch on Crunchyroll as of 17th Aug 2024.
