Thread by @vxrdz

finished VAGABOND.

some of my thoughts below.

First of all, my top 4 characters. (in order)

Musashi for his development and ambition.

Matahachi for his relatability.

Takuhan for his guidance.

Kojiro for his talent.

Honorable Mention: Itō Ittōsai.

Second of all, my favorite arcs. (in order as well)

1. Farming

2. Yoshioka

3. Yagyū / Wandering

4. Kojirō

Sad to say that one of the greatest journeys I’ve ever had the privilege of experiencing in fiction is coming to an end. It’s been quite a while since a manga has made me feel like this — Pure childlike excitement overtook me page after page.

I thoroughly enjoyed musashi’s character arc. not a single flaw. It was mesmerizing to watch his highs, lows, victories, and losses. His journey would constantly be obstructed by many barriers and setbacks. Arguably the biggest one being himself.

Despite that, he rose above every single one.

Truly an inspiring manga. It hits so differently because this was a real man in history. what he achieved is something I have the potential to attain as well. Easier said than done though, as it is a great feat to draw out-

the infinite potential that lies dormant within us. Ugh this story is so good it makes me sick man.

As a person who’s been exposed to religion for nearly my whole life, VG has motivated me to rekindle my relationship with the heavens above. It has sowed habits of mindfulness and prayer back into my daily routine, and I am truly grateful for the calm state of mind it’s given me.

All in all, I’m satisfied. Inoue handled this manga magnificently and I’m in awe of how he managed to outdo himself every consecutive arc. Fleshed out characters, amazing dynamics, flawless artwork, superb pacing, and impeccable storytelling. Best of all time.

12/10.

I sincerely recommend this story for anyone who has an interest in the samurai genre, also for those who desire an out of body experience while reading.

Now I’ll be patiently waiting for this masterpiece to get off hiatus.

Big thanks to anyone that made it this far. 🙏🏾

Extra: my favorite volume covers.

9, 22, 23, 26.

@threadreaderapp unroll

Huge shoutout to @Aratsumi_ for pushing to read this series as I didnt regret a second of it.

Another one to @CrspyCritter101 for shedding light on/explaining some things that I didn’t grasp at first glance. 🤝