Being a fan of manga is not exactly what I'd call a fulfilling experience.
I mean this in the literal sense. Countless manga start out with promise, only to fall into an indefinite hiatus years later, long after readers have become invested. Then there are the manga suddenly and inexplicably abandoned by their authors, leaving fans with only their imagination to tie up lose ends. At least in those cases, the story is somewhat spared, suspended in limbo. True pain is known by those whose favorite manga is forever tainted by an unsatisfying ending, hastily slapped together by an author who has long tired of their own story.
Worst of all...there are the manga that had no purpose to begin with. Perhaps they had an interesting gimmick or idea to pull readers in. Eventually, inevitably, the gimmick loses appeal and the manga reveals itself to be an aimless, decaying body, whose life is mercilessly prolonged by a stubborn author with no clear direction.
I offer these examples of unsatisfying narratives as contrast, for the manga I will be reviewing today is no such story.
Saraiya Goyou, or House of Five Leaves, is an eight volume manga written by Natsume Ono. Her other notable manga include Ristorante Paradiso (the story of a young woman swept away by the romance of Rome while spending quality time with men twice her age) and the more recent ACCA: 13-ku Kansatsu-ka (a police drama set in a fictional monarchy). Natsume Ono is best known for her striking art design. Her characters are long and lanky, simple yet expressive, with massive, soulful irises. The background art is lacking too, though in a understated and purposeful way. Some may be put off by this odd style - I know I was at first. But I urge you to look beyond the surface. For lying underneath is one of the biggest beating hearts in manga.
I am, of course, referring to our main character: Akitsu Masanosuke, the skilled yet cowardly ronin. After being dismissed by his shogun, relinquishing his title as head of household, and fleeing his hometown, he attempts to work honestly as a yojimbo in Edo. The trouble is - he's incapable of fighting in front of crowds. Due to his timid disposition, Masa is unable to hold a steady job. That is, until he's approached by the mysterious yet enigmatic Yaichi, who offers him the position as his personal bodyguard.
The unsuspecting and good-natured Masa is quick to accept the offer. In doing so, however, he finds himself an unwitting accomplice in a wicked plot, for Yaichi is head to a group of kidnappers named "Five Leaves", who specifically target noble houses. At first Masa is hesitant to involve himself with such a crowd. But gradually he warms to these charismatic outlaws and finds himself further entrenched in their world. The story follows Masa and the Fives Leaves as they plan and execute their jobs, all while narrowly avoiding investigation by the Shogunate. It also follows the aforementioned enigma, Yaichi, whose past is shrouded in mystery and padded by rumors of betrayal.
As I emphasized earlier, it is important for me that a manga has clear direction. After I finish reading, I want to feel as though my time has been well spent. I want to feel as though I've consumed something with a message, or a purpose, or in the very least, an interesting theme. It's bare minimum stuff, really.
Saraiya Goyou exceeded my expectations on all fronts, for not only does it have a direction, it has an end in sight. I do not pretend to know the thoughts of authors, but it is my guess that Natsume Ono knew ahead of time where Masa's story was headed - and not only his. Each of the characters, especially the mysterious Yaichi, has a compelling story to tell. By the end of the final chapter, every loose thread (even those belonging to seemingly insignificant side characters) has been neatly tied up in an unpredictable yet meaningful way. And when the thematic through line is finally revealed, I found myself staring at the ceiling in awe and whispering quietly, fuck.
While her distinct art may be the thing fans can most readily identify about her work, Natsume Ono's greatest strength is undoubtedly her narrative prowess. Simply put, the woman can write. She knows how to craft compelling characters and engaging dialogue. For a story that features kidnapping, gangs, and political intrigue, the atmosphere and pace of Saraiya Goyou is surprisingly slow. Make no mistake, however, slow does not equate boring. There is always something interesting occurring each chapter, and not a single page feels wasted or empty. The cast is deeply lovable and their chemistry is undeniable. Therefore, even amidst the quiet moments, the reader is fully engaged. The manga manages to maintain this hypnotizing pace for most of the story, only shattered by the occasional moments of danger and suspense, made all the more potent by contrast.
I can say with assurance that Saraiya Goyou will stick with me. On the surface it's a charming manga with interesting characters and unique art that perfectly compliments the narrative. Buried within, however, is a deeply affecting and tightly-wrapped story about wealth, fear, and found family. This story resonated with me on a very personal level. Therefore, even if you are of similar tastes, I cannot guarantee you will have quite as profound a connection with Saraiya Goyou as I did. In the very least, however, I urge you to give this masterpiece the chance it deserves.