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Start for freeThe Legacy of Hunter x Hunter: A Tale of Adventure and Unfinished Business
Twenty-six years ago, Hunter x Hunter began its serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump, marking the start of a journey that would captivate millions worldwide. With over 80 million manga copies sold and two successful anime adaptations, the series by Yoshihiro Togashi has become a cornerstone of manga and anime culture. Despite its success, Togashi's debilitating back problem and subsequent hiatuses have been a significant topic of discussion among fans. These health issues have even led Togashi to share backup endings for the manga, a testament to his dedication to the story.
Togashi's Legacy Beyond Hunter x Hunter
Yoshihiro Togashi is no stranger to the manga world, with YuYu Hakusho being another one of his critically acclaimed works. Both of his major series reflect his unique storytelling ability but are also marked by the impact of his health issues. Togashi's experiences with YuYu Hakusho and its sudden ending due to health concerns played a role in how he approached Hunter x Hunter, granting him a unique position within the competitive Weekly Shonen Jump landscape.
The Philosophy of Hunter x Hunter: The Journey is the Goal
Hunter x Hunter stands out not just for its intricate plot and deep character development but also for its philosophical underpinnings. The story, both finished and unfinished in its own right, reflects a deeper narrative philosophy: the importance of the journey over the destination. From the soft ending that concludes Gon's search for his father to the introduction of new arcs and characters, Togashi explores the idea that life and stories are about the detours and the experiences along the way.
The Impactful First Chapter
The first chapter of Hunter x Hunter sets the stage for what's to come, introducing Gon and laying the foundations for the series' themes of curiosity, adventure, and the quest for the unknown. This chapter is not only a masterclass in storytelling but also in character development, efficiently presenting Gon's personality and motivations without a word of dialogue. Togashi's attention to detail and layered storytelling are evident from the start, drawing parallels with other iconic manga and establishing Hunter x Hunter as a story that is both a critique and a celebration of the shonen genre.
The Influence of Curiosity and Legacy
Curiosity drives the characters of Hunter x Hunter, leading them into both wonder and peril. This theme is intricately tied to the series' narrative structure, with characters' quests for knowledge reflecting their deeper desires and fears. The generational legacy of the Freecss family further adds to the story's depth, suggesting a never-ending cycle of adventure and discovery that spans beyond Gon and Jing.
Final Thoughts
Hunter x Hunter is a testament to Yoshihiro Togashi's storytelling genius, blending intricate plots with philosophical depth. As fans, we're left to ponder the what-ifs of the story's completion, but perhaps the true beauty of Hunter x Hunter lies in its celebration of the journey itself. As Togashi has shown, the story's continuation and its detours are what make it truly captivating. Here's to 26 years of Hunter x Hunter, and hopefully, many more years of adventure to come.
For further reading, check out the interview with Yoshihiro Togashi where he discusses his plans and thoughts on the future of Hunter x Hunter.
