Vagabond is a different type of manga i have read in the seinen demographic. Opposed to telling us a story, Vagabond is a manga that tries to make us question different themes we have about life and philosophy; the illusion of emotions, self-reflection and fear in itself. As such, i think it was a great decision from the author Inoue Takehiko to adapt Eiji Yoshikawa's novel into a manga, so he can focus on making the journey much more endearing to read and truly immerse ourself into the work.
So, what is the acclaimed and popular manga actually about? It is about the main character, Takezo Shinmen, which sets out on a journey to become the strongest samurai in the nation, after an incident occurs. This description in itself did not really endear me much when i started reading it, but as i read more, it really started getting much more interesting due to our main character. His journey that started with him being a really scary and strong character, often referred to as a demon child, which in itself isn't quite unique but combined with the the realistic approach the story is about and the way the author conveys emotion is something that was really great to see.
The state of anger the manga manages to capture really well.
The author also does a really great job at sending messages about violence and self-reflection, something i dont quite myself care much about in fiction but is something i got myself deep into. Is it really correct to view your opponents as enemies? Is it really that becoming strong with the sword, means becoming a strong samurai? Are emotions generally useless? Many questions are asked and it is up to the reader to answer for themself.
I've discussed much about the main character, but what about the others? Most of the time, the characters that are introduced are mostly used for Takezo's character development, but that in itself is not a bad thing, infact quite the opposite. Most, if not all characters are really well done and memorable, and act as a tool for Takezo to grow. They also have their own story to tell, which have all been pretty great to read and makes me love them even more when they get screentime. They may be simple for some people which may be a bad thing, but for me, it makes me appreciate them even more, considering seeing them evolve into a character thats worthy of being remembered.
One character that i really enjoyed was Kojiro. Though he might not have THE best development in the manga, he is a simple character which you really get to enjoy from the get-go when he debuts through his backstory. Though he is deaf and mute, he communicates via dueling and his child-like personality makes him out to be innocent, but don't let it fool you; he can be a deadly force to be reckoned with. It really shows how being simple-minded can be the strongest strength. A rivalry worth remembering.
As i have previously mentioned, the artstyle is quite realistic in its approach due to how well-done it really is, managing to look even lifelike. Inoue Takehiko really manages to capture my attention far too much, as i love to just take in how well he can also convey emotions. The author also clearly is skilled with making the blood and gore for Vagabond a tool for storytelling, but looks great aswell. It has already been said multiple times, but damn; as much as i love Berserk and it being my number 1 manga, i really gotta give it to Inoue, considering his art is just really breathtaking. Ofcourse, nothing against Miura!
Here is my favorite piece of art from Vagabond
The power of concentration.
##Conclusion
I really gotta give it to Vagabond. It's a unique manga that manages to question much about life and philosophies that we have all gotten used to, and makes the reader have more insight on what truly matters; the mind, and how we can control it. The people around us can give insight on how to change aswell, and much deep reflection is needed about your place in the world.
Although the story is quite slow which can be a nuisance and the combat which might be much to follow with alot of talking, Vagabond cements its place as a manga that gives insight on how to live life. Give this manga a chance if you are looking for something spiritual, long and beautiful.
