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Vagabond (10/10)

This is the work that completely changed me, a journey that reaches a unique depth from a philosophical and psychological point of view. Vagabond touched my soul and made me the person I am today; I think no other work can surpass the emotional impact it left on me. Vagabond goes beyond mere storytelling, transforming into a poetic and spiritual journey in search of true strength. It is a work rich in religious references, especially Buddhist ones, extraordinary themes and profound symbolism with wonderful dynamics between the characters and more than excellent parallels. But above all, the protagonist's transformation and the various philosophical perceptions he adopts throughout the work.

Let’s dive deeper into the protagonist:

9.25/10 Introduction:

Takezo's introduction was excellent for understanding the perceptions and initial ideals he held in the early chapters of the story.

9.75/10 Conclusion:

It’s difficult to define a proper conclusion for Musashi's character without referring to Vagabond: Saigo no Manga-ten, where we find one of the most beautiful peaks in manga history. It’s a very unique conclusion that I still struggle to put into words; rather than being fully understood, it was pure emotion that this brief final part of Musashi's life brought me.

10/10 Development:

Easily one of the best character developments I’ve ever seen so far. A gradual growth, built chapter by chapter, complex and profound. It delves into the true meaning of “invincible” and how this word is entirely meaningless, exploring the importance of human connections and how they represent the essence of true strength.

10/10 Complexity:

Musashi is a very complex character, both philosophically and psychologically.

• From a psychological standpoint, we see the conflict between isolation and connection: he considers human connections a weakness, yet he seeks them. This contrast leads him to deny these connections to continue his journey in pursuit of strength. Another central theme is the battle against ego, which becomes prominent in the later arcs. In these moments, Musashi repeatedly clashes with himself, trying to establish himself as the best. His psychological growth is evident when he begins to question the value of his selfishness and asks himself if strength is truly his ultimate goal.

• From a philosophical perspective, the meaning of strength is central. Musashi comes to understand that true strength is not just physical but also moral and spiritual. Through his duels and experiences, he learns that true strength lies not in overpowering others but in mastering oneself.

10/10 Depth:

Musashi is not only a complex character but also profoundly deep. The work explores religious, moral, social, and value-based dimensions.

10/10 Themes:

Musashi’s themes are incredible and include:
Man vs. self (the battle against ego);
Self-discovery;
Existentialism and existential crisis;
Stoicism, absurdism and nihilism;
Redemption;
Man vs Morality;
Perservance;
Dharma (Dharma is the universal truth, the ethical and spiritual path, and the Buddha’s teachings.);
Dukkha (is suffering or dissatisfaction, which permeates life until one follows the path to enlightenment.);
finding peace with oneself.

10/10 Dynamics:

Among the best. My absolute favorite is undoubtedly the dynamic between Musashi and Takuan, but all the dynamics are amazing: Musashi & Kojiro, Musashi & Inshun, Musashi & Matahachi, Musashi & Baiken and Musashi & Denshichiro.

10/10 Conflicts:

Musashi has some of the best conflicts ever seen. His internal conflicts, such as the struggle with his ego, are fascinating; while his external conflicts, such as his duels with Denshichiro, Baiken and Inshun, are equally extraordinary.

10/10 Dialogues/Monologues:

This is the character’s strongest point and the main reason he resonated so deeply with me. Moments like "I’m Nothing" are simply unforgettable. But also in the dialogues between Takuan and Musashi, such as "All truly strong people are kind."

10/10 Symbolisms:

Here too, the symbolisms are amazing. The water and flow symbolism, the Zen symbolism (emptiness, Mu), the Taoism symbolism (effortless action, Wu Wei) and the life and death symbolism (the unity of life and death, where death is not the opposite but part of the same coin, allowing one to live fully).

11/10 Message:

Musashi’s message is extraordinary. It addresses the insignificance of life, not in a negative way but in a way that makes us understand how all of us are insignificant compared to the world around us. Humans call insects small and insignificant, but in Vagabond, they are given the same importance because, in the end, we are all equally insignificant in the grander scheme. The work also teaches the importance of humility, forgiveness, the futility of anger or regret and the value of human connections, whether with family or in general.

12/10 Impact:

No character will ever match the impact that Musashi has had on me.

Vagabond is not just a story but a journey within ourselves, teaching us that true strength lies not in defeating others but in finding peace with who we are.