The 25 Days of Blogging. It’s like ABC’s Family 25 Days of Christmas, but 25% more vulgar and offensive like your drunk ass Uncle during your family reunions.
Jack of all trades yet a master of none. An all-arounder. but he is never staying with just one thing. Skilled and involved in many trades and he has complete dominance in neither nor. He wears many hats but you can’t pinpoint his trademark head wear.
We might know this guy. He bounces form one project to another. One day, he’s working on a blog. The next, a podcast. Next week he opens a successful online drop shipping business. The following month he’s flipping old clothes online for profit. Next year he is running an anime YouTube channel. He’s all over the place. You can’t pin him down – and not in a good way.
After a while (may it be from burnout or multiple projects failing), he starts to slow down. He backs off from YouTube and podcasting for the written word: blogging. He ends his drop shipping business and focus on flipping clothes. He has realized that sticking to one thing and direct complete focus onto a single field is the best choice.
Since he stop podcasting, he saw an mass increase in his blog traffic. Ending his drop shipping business means he can focus on his clothing flipping business; netting him more income than his previous side hustle. Overtime, he winds up becoming a master of the art of blogging. Realizing he’s making more money blogging than flipping clothes, he stops selling used clothes online and become obsessed and dedicated to blogging alone.
When you stick to one thing alone, magic happens. You’re not spread out; tiring yourself and burning out. People see you as a respected authority figure because you’re not juggling five different things. You are netting yourself more attention with one project than multiple. Your audience won’t feel alienated or confused because you’re not playing the switch up game every day. Your brand won’t have an identity crisis. And, if done right, you’ll become the top 10% of your field.
Let’s use Son Goku of the Dragon Ball series as an example of mastery of one field.
What mastery of one thing looks like
Goku sticks with only one thing: martial arts. Since childhood, he spent every morning, afternoon, and night training his body, mind, and spirit through the combat arts. Nothing else. Goku wakes up, trains, learn from masters, “protect” the world from bad guys, sleep, and repeats the process. You’re not gonna see Goku playing the guitar with Kaori from Your Life in April. He isn’t going to spread himself out by running a shady business on the dark web like that Devil Arcana guy from Persona 3. He is obsessed with fighting and fighting alone. It’s why he can throw down with the best in the universe.
***
On the flip side, sticking to one alone can grow stale if you’re not upgrading or reinventing yourself. Eventually you will get bored. You’ll hit a peak and struggle. Your audience will want something new and leave you if you can’t provide anything fresh. You want something new. Therefore, you should branch out. If you’re a blogger, perhaps branch out into the world of podcast after you spent years mastering the art of blogging. If you’re a cosplayer, try entering the world of fashion. If you blog about anime start watching live action shows. If you never grew up watching classic shows, then you can talk about the shows you miss out thanks to your fresher mindset.
There’s nothing wrong with branching out.
Until next time
-Yuki The Snowman
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The Swarthy Nerd Podcast
A Black nerd empowerment podcast where Black nerds (well, all nerds, but Black first and foremost) can get together and talk freely about nerd culture while also acknowledging systematic white supremacy and racism in the nerd and Eastern otaku fandoms. Every Tuesday join @superlostfan108 and @weebtrashyuki the founders of http://www.swarthynerd.com for there very informative podcast talking about all things nerdy. No desperate boot licking self hating negus who were never accepted by Black norimes for being too weird for their love of anime and comic books by the Black community allowed. Go drink bleach.
‘I can never throw away who I am!’ -Vegeta, Dragon Ball Super
You should never apologize for being yourself. Even if people don’t get who you are as a person, you still need to be and do you. Somebody demands that you apologize for your quirky passions? Fuck them! Somebody thinks you’re too egotistical? Don’t feel bad. That person suffers from low self-esteem and loves to hate on anyone who has pride in themselves.
Never say sorry to them because you never allowed society to control who you should be.
People who get on the cases of other people (because they accepted who they are) are cowardly, beta losers who’ve allowed society to hammer them down and stripped them of their pride and confidence. When these lowly, insecure nobodies see people being comfortable with themselves and living a bold, grand life, they only see a reflection of what they could have been in their below average life.
Unlike the prideful champs of the world, they followed the rules of society and lost their true self.
At the time of this writing, I received a YouTube video notification from the luxury and wealth website, Alux. Alux dropped a new video for their Sunday Motivation Video series: 15 Things You Should NEVER Apologize For. I didn’t even start the video and a huge smile came across my face.
I needed this video due to recent events.
Last week, I was assaulted and battered for my views on money and wealth. Don’t worry beloved readers; it wasn’t physical, so I suffered no damaged. The assault came in the form of whiny liberal crybabies armed with their smartphones, keyboards, and Twitter fingers. Crybabies who are sick and tired of being broke and struggling, but won’t take action to cure their sickness.
I decided to share a post from a leftist Facebook page on how if we’re gonna eat the rich, we should also eat pop-stars like Beyoncé. Because, to them, it’s unfair that Beyoncé makes $30,000,000 a show while hardworking normal people get scraps (not her fault lol).
I offered a solution to their problem: Instead of worrying about and hating on how other people are building wealth, transmute that hateful energy towards something you’re great at and make money that way. Hating on somebody else’s livelihood isn’t going to stop their cashflow nor decrease their income.
I was viciously ripped apart by those dogs.
But – to be honest – I love it when I make hit dogs holler.
My business? This blog. Which is live, off the ground, active, and making me money. Then again, when you gave up on blogging and any other businesses after you put little effort to build them (because you wanna copy others and not do your own shit), you tend to be critical towards others working on their passion (Yes, I am a petty man. Tit for tat.)
At this point in my life, I’m used to being attack for being myself. As a Black man who happens to be a passionate nerd, receiving criticism for my lifestyle isn’t new at all. Uncultured, uneducated niggas think they can shame you because you want to educate yourself and rise above the destructive street culture that takes the lives of thousands of young black men each year (thanks systematic white supremacy for trapping and setting up the black community).
There are black men and women who are nerds, weeaboos, and geeks of course. So finding common grounds with them should be simple. Sadly, most Black nerds tend to be coonin’ ass, tap-dancin’, self-hatin’ Uncle Toms, Bed Bucks, and Bed Wenches. If you don’t get down with their little get down (trash talking other black people and kissing white nerds’ asses) they will ostracize you from their dusty nigga nerd groups. To them, you’re not a “real” black nerd if you listen to mainstream hip-hop, wear stylish and timeless clothes, and speak out against racism.
I wish I was making all of this up.
Finally, you have racist white nerds (obviously) trying to hurt you and bring you down for being a black nerd with confidence. If you’re not a buck-dancing coonin’ nigga nerd kissing their white asses, act like “other black people” (whatever that means), and you actually have a backbone/pair of balls to stand up to their bullshit (unlike a lot of you black nerds), they will attack you with extreme prejudice. And racism.
You, a black man, fucked that Asian Reimu Hakurei off the popular anime series Touhou cosplayer that they were eyeing at an anime convention? Best believe they will call you a nigger with a hard “r” (not to your face obviously they do it on their weeaboo Facebook groups).
Decided to cosplay outside your race and are cosplaying trash girl Aqua from Konosuba? You will get harassed by white nerds who demand that you cosplay somebody black; because they think your Black skin is ruining their precious 2D white/Asian waifu (again, these are the same people who think cosplay is for everyone).
You have to do you and accept yourself despite the heat.
Never apologize for it.
These vicious attacks against your character can even come from your friends, family or close associates. People who you thought you could lean on for moral support and had your back. It can leave you heartbroken.
But you gotta keep doing you.
Years ago, I was heavily into the Shin Megami Tensei/Persona series. Obsessed even. I made a name for myself through the SMT/Persona communities on Facebook and had a rather successful live blogging of my Persona 3 and Persona 4 adventures on tumblr (before I left tumblr due to the entitled, white crybabies; whining about life ruining the website).
Great times.
One day, while I was kicking it with a few friends, a friend of mine decided that I needed a weeaboo intervention; because my passion for otaku culture and Persona was too much (for his weak mind who lacked passion for things). He ranted about how Persona is an old series that he got into back in high school, how it was never going to reach mainstream popularity (what is that phrase that people use for stupid comments and statements? Lmfao), that I got into the series way too late for anyone to discuss about it (again, laughing my fucking ass off) and that I need to move on.
I simply smiled, nodded, and told him to fuck off.
What he was actually saying (i.e. projecting onto me) is that he wished he had the discipline and dedication to work on a live blog, that he could love something with grit (to deal with critical people that don’t get it), was passionate about had the balls and courage to speak on something that wasn’t popular, and that he wishes he could do the things I am doing. That’s what people like that do: worry about what others are doing with their lives (because there’s something going on in their lives they have yet to control).
A few years later (as recently as the second weekend of October of this year), I had yet another friend thought that he could try and pull that same shit with me.
I was chilling at a local convention (Archon St. Louis) drunkenly cosplaying as Monika from Doki Doki Literature Club (genderswap, of course, I am not fuckin’ wearing a skirt as a man like every other male does when cosplaying as a school girl character). The friend (drunkenly) came up to me and started saying how he blocked anything Doki Doki Literature Club related because I spoke about the game on my Facebook and Instagram pages “too much”.
I wanted to go off on him (as I tend to do with people when I’m heavily intoxicated), but I remember a small little victory I have over him. It’s just a small, minor victory from but it’s nothing major at all:
See kids, when you’re yourself and don’t apologize for it, people (in time) will notice, show their appreciation, and respect you. It’s going to take time. A long time. But it does and will happen (but only if you work smart and hard for it). Right then and there, I could have pulled that fanart up on my phone and told him to shut his ass up and walked away. But I rather have him discover that image by himself than to look like a (complete) asshole to the eyes of the general convention public.
I – thanks to me subtly not giving a fuck about the opinions of others – have fanart of my cosplay.
He doesn’t.
(Now if I can gain massive success and make millions off this passion over time, that will be perfect)
This is why I have Vegeta’s image for the feature image and his now famous quote from his battle against Jiren from Dragon Ball Super at the start of this article.
It’s a powerful line. Vegeta’s pride as a Saiyan warrior was questioned and provoked by Jiren. Pride disregarded by Jiren as mere arrogance. But, to Vegeta, his arrogance is who he is: A proud warrior who loves his race. A man who suffered and made sacrifices to reach greatness.
I’m sure many of you guys reading this have been called egotistical and arrogant for being yourself, prideful, and having high levels of confidence. People told you that you’re full of yourself? Good. People who say that to you (to discourage you from following your path) aren’t full of themselves and pride. You know what they’re full of?
Full of self-doubt. Full of self-hatred. Full of low self-esteem. Full of envy.
They threw themselves away and gave up on their desires.
To those who are like that, can I you guys a few questions? What is your thought process when dealing with people who haven’t thrown themselves away and take pride in who they are? Why do you feel the need to attack their pride and ego? Did something happen to you along the way for you to give up on being yourself? Why do you find joy in attacking those with high confidence?
While you losers apologizing for being yourself on Pity Party Drive, us winners are over here celebrating on Victory Road who we are.
Disclaimer: This freewrite was written under the influence of alcohol. It may not make logical sense.
Dragon Ball isn’t deep. There are deep themes, but it isn’t that deep than other anime. Dragon Ball is a goofy, battle action manga and anime series created by some crazy Japanese dude who bread and butter is gag comedy manga (Dr. Slump). Expecting Dragon Ball to be meaningful and insightful is like trying to find one’s dignity at a drunken, drug-fueled anime con orgy:
It ain’t gonna happen.
This doesn’t mean that Dragon Ball can’t teach us lessons about life. After all, Goku’s journey is a lesson that if you want to better yourself, you must go out and travel; putting in the hard (and smart) work to and learning under those better than you to obtain whatever you want in life. Baby from Dragon Ball GT teaches us that people who were treated unfairly (through oppression) will come back to take revenge against those who oppressed them – even going as far as hunting down and killing innocent people if they have to.
Dragon Ball Super with the Tournament of Power arc is no different. There are valuable lessons to be taught about that arc, one that is obvious and yet – it’s the most important lesson. In order to achieve what you want, emotions need to be put aside.
In episode whatever it was in Super (I’m drunk: I don’t feel like looking it up), Majin Buu succumb to his deep sleeping habits; putting him out of action for two months. Thing is, it would have been okay for Majin Buu to take a two months break from combat…if he wasn’t a team member of Universe 7, and the existence of their universe was at risk of being destroyed by Zeno-Sama. With their ranks shorten, Team Universe 7 had two options:
Find a replacement for Majin Buu
Operate at a loss and/or risk destruction
Logically, Team Universe 7 should have put Majin Buu in the Time Chamber (Room of Spirit and Time for your purist elitist weeaboos) but logic doesn’ work in anime. While everyone else was in a panic, Goku came up with an ideal replacement for Majin Buu: Lord Frieza – mortal enemy of the Z Warriors.
The Z Warrirors weren’t happy with Goku’s suggestion. They had every right to. Krillin and Vegeta were murdered by him. Piccolo’s race and home planet was destroyed by the cruel tyrant. Plus, Frieza’s a snake. Who knows what kinda of shit Frieza would pull on the Z Warrriors if given the chance. If he wanted to, Frieza could had kill members of Unvierse 7 for shits and giggles. (Un)forutnetly for Team Universe 7, Freiza’s an asset to their surivivial. Yes, Frieza did horrible things to Z Warrrios and caused suffering to the unviersse. But what’s worse; Having a powerful, yet psychopathic warrior on your side who can get the job done with ease or losing your exsitance because you got emotional over somebody you don’t like?
I thought so.
In dire situtaitons, you have to put aside your emotions and focus on the ultimate goal. Emotions are great. They make us humans. They drive us to do amazing things. But emotions can fuck you up if you can’t control them. Let’s look at what happen to Lerbron James during the 2018 NBA Finals. Game 1. He got in his feelings over a teammate’s mistake. He gave into them and got swept by The Golden State Warriors.
What would had happen to Universe 7 if they gotten emotional over Frieza’s includcion to their team? You might say “But Ben, they could had went with Yamcha instead or maybe even Cell!” You’re right. They could had went with Yamcha or Cell. But Yamcha would had gotten slaughter within the first five seconds of the tournament. And Cell doesn’t give Toei Animation enough money like Frieza in terms of product sales.
Don’t get emotional when trying to hit your targets.
There’s a peculiar law that many believe in. Earl Nightingale, the late motivation speaker, considers this law to be the strangest secret known to man. It is said by believing in this law you’ll attract the things you desire. That if you think about it all day long, it will happen. What you put into the universe is what you get out — good or bad. This law is none other than the Law of Attraction.
Sounds awesome, right?
What if I told you that simply believing that things will happen isn’t enough? The Law of Attraction works (about 10% of the time), but you have to put in the work to obtain the things you want in life. Any ol’ fuck can just look in the mirror and say “I will be successful. Today will be a good day. I will become a millionaire.” But few put in the work to achieve their goals. Let’s be honest: people just say things so they can feel good about their about their current situation without doing anything.
They’re not willing to put in the work.
While the majority is comfortable with wishful thinking, there’s a minority that not only speak positivity into their lives, they make moves to ensure it. Saying some silly mantra over and over again do not and will never make them happy. They need to to go out and get it. Do you think Son Goku stood in front of a mirror and told himself “I’m going to meet powerful warriors, train with masters, and better myself.”? No. He went out to the world and did it. He took action in order to grow. Goku traveled to hone his skill s and learn new things. He wasn’t content and happy with staying in one place.
People who do the law of attraction thing must act in the same manner. You don’t just say silly shit and think you’re gonna magically get shit. This is why I hate most self-help books and gurus who say you only have to say you’ll get what you desire. They’re full of shit. The ones who show you how to get it and warn you it’s not going to be easy – I respect them. They want more than just money from some book.
The law of attractions works. It’s a wonderful law that I follow and have faith in. But I understand that I must put in the action to get what I want in life. Simply lounging around and operating on a hope and a wish that I will become successful is not only stupid, it’s pathetic. I do not want to be one of many who does that shit without applying me. That’s boring.
(Warning: Terrible grammar and spelling. I was drunk off three shots of Jim Beam and drank like two 32 oz. cans of cheap Miller beer. You’ve been warned. Originally written on March 2nd, 2018.)
Assuming that there won’t be a final ED for Super’s finale, ONEPIXCEL’s Lagrima as the final ED is a poor choice. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not a bad song for what it is (and the women performing the song are pretty cute). I find myself bobbing my head in sync with the beat of the song even. Still, it’s doesn’t carry the emotional weight of 70cm Square Window. Why do I think it carries more weight than Lagrima? Well, hear me out.
Once we get past Adult Goku riding on the Flying Nimbus (or the Kinto’un for you fucking Japanese sub purist weeaboos), there’s a shot of Kid Goku alone starting far into the distance. Following that, the ending animation transition to Kid Goku’s running animation cycle featuring the OG Dragon Ball characters in the background (Bulma, Pura, Oolong, Yamcha, Krillin, Tien, Muten Roshi, and Goku’s late beloved grandpa, Gohan). Next, Goku grows into his current self, riding back on the Flying Nimbus while images of the Team Universe 7 crew scroll along. Finally, that shit ends with Goku running next to images of Beerus, the Zeno Kings, Grand Preist, Hit, and Jiren – the important characters of DB Super.
The animation of 70cm Square Window shows Goku’s growth from classic Dragon Ball, Z, and Super (sorry DBGT stans ya don’t get shit). Goku went form a curious, humble country boy traveling the world for stronger people to fight and train with, to a man who could destroy an entire universe with ease. Just imagine, you finish watching the final episode of Super, this song plays, and you watch Goku’s progression within this ED. You watch this man improve and better himself – becoming this unstoppable warrior. Imagine that shit man. How the fuck can Lagrima could ever compare?
Fuck, let’s check the best lyrics of the song:
‘I was always thinking of you
The reality that squeezes my heart
I was always longing to see you
And I’ll continue to forge ahead with that memory…”
Let’s imagine that none of the universe or any warrior that died will be brought back (they will cuz it’s Dragon Ball Super and Super is fuckin predictable as fuck) after the Tournament. Do you know how those lines could fit well with say 18 remembering her brother or Vegeta remembering Cabba and the Saiyans of Universe 7 and how they will have to continue on living without them? I want you to imagine 18’s and Vegeta’s sadness as those lyrics play.
Wouldn’t that shit be perfect?
Real shit tho, I’m drunk as hell and none of this will lever happen cuz Toei Animation don’t get deep with Dragon Ball like that. Hope you enjoyed this durenk rant I will do more in the future when I have nothing better to do on a Friday night or something.
Afterword:
Alcohol doesn’t make you a better writer. It only makes you an alcoholic writer and increases your alcohol dependency.
Boy, the Dragon Ball community never ceases to amaze me with their stupidity. With the revelation of Jiren’s backstory in episode 127 of Super, fans are speculating who could have murdered Jiren’s family and friends. One utterly idiotic theory floating about is that Goku Black was behind the slaughter of Jiren’s loved ones. Yea. Goku Black.
Can I explain how stupid that sounds?
First, let me outline how this theory got started. It’s real stupid but check it. Niggas legit think Goku Black is behind the murders because of how the animators used a similar technique to hide the killer’s identity as they did with Goku Back’s. That’s it. Nothing else to logically suggests that their theory is correct.
If Goku Black was the killer, Jiren wouldn’t be alive. Why? Because Goku Black hates all mortals. He deems mortals as evil. He wants them all dead. Jiren is a mortal. Goku Black would have killed him. Furthermore, why would Toei Animation hide Goku Black’s identity if we already know who he is? That doesn’t make any sense to me whatsoever.
Back in Dragon Ball Z, Trunks was explaining to Goku about the upcoming Android threat. During this, there was a scene where we see two figures whom we could not make out their physical appearance; similar to how we couldn’t figure out Goku Black’s identity. It was to add tension to Trunk’s story and the upcoming storylines.
This isn’t exclusive to Dragon Ball either. In many visual media (video games, comic books, anime, etc.), villains’ identity is concealed by shadows and lighting so the audience won’t know who they are until the climactic moment of their reveal.
The face of the crazy ass science dude in Sailor Moon covered in shadow.
Let me keep going so I can break down this stupid ass theory.
Goku Black is just Zamasu in Goku’s body. Because of that, Jiren would have tried to take out Goku from the start of the Tournament of Power for revenge. Jiren would have believed that Goku was Goku Black. Then, he would have attempted to do anything within his power to beat the shit out of him and possibly kill him. Jiren had no interest in Goku when Goku tried to fight him at the start of the Tournament. If there were any interests towards Goku, it’d be related to the fact that Jiren believes that Goku is Goku Black – which he doesn’t – because it’s fucking impossible.
To close out my rant, you are utterly fucking stupid if you believe the theory that Goku Black was the murderer. You ate paste as a kid and you probably the same nigga who thought Goten was Goku Black. I’m not sorry for calling you fucking stupid.
As the Tournament of Power reaches its conclusion, I am constantly reminded of Dragon Ball Super’s 7th ending theme: An Evil Angel and Righteous Devil. Towards the end of it, there’s a line that goes “Justice and evil both carry the same gun”. I couldn’t help but think about the song when Toppo tells Frieza that “Justice…is worthless now” during their battle and Toppo’s resolve (to become a God of Destruction and forego his morals). The theme of justice is played with Toppo throughout the Universe Survival Arc. Toppo is a proud warrior of justice; leading his Pride Troopers to battle after battle in the name of all that is righteous.
From analyzing Toppo’s personality, he holds justice, morals, and honor with the utmost respect. He fights fairs: preferring honest play over cheap tactics. This is shown when Toppo snapped on Android 17 for attacking the Kamikaze Fireball (during their transformation). He questioned the motives of the Tournament, The Grand Priest, and Zeno-Sama. Toppo doesn’t feel right about fighting in a tournament designed to wipe out multiple universes; a tournament in which countless lives will end upon each universe’s erasure.
Toppo and his Pride Troopers initially entered the tournament to punish those who they deemed “evil”. While survival was ideal, targeting evil doers were their prime goal. However in episode 104 of Super, Toppo started to change his mind. With seven of his men gone and his universe at risk of deletion, Toppo decides that the Pride Troopers must kill their ideologies of justice and ethics in order to live.
There’s no place for justice and heroism in a war of survival.
Towards the end of the tournament, Toppo is struggling against Andoird 17. After analyzing 17’s combat style (and discovering 17 has infinite energy), Toppo decides to end his battle with 17 with one blow. However, he fails and is forced into a beam struggle with the Universe 7 warrior. During the struggle, Frieza attacks Toppo from behind. Frieza taunts Toppo while blasting him with Death Beams. Bored with Toppo, Frieza attempts to blast Toppo off the battlefield; enveloping him with overwhelming energy.
Despite the struggle, Toppo survives but is heavily wounded.
Frieza taunts Toppo once more. He mocks the man, calling him trash. He then points out how shameful it must be for Toppo to have his prized uniform of justice in shreds. It’s here where Toppo snaps. Coldly, Toppo replies that justice is worthless. After seeing his men fall and the destruction of six universes before him, Toppo comes to a resolution. Justice is worthless. It has no use on the battlefield. Justice doesn’t translate to survival.
In order to survive, Toppo gives up on justice. This same man who praised it with pride now sees it as a waste. A liability even. Toppo decides to ascend to godhood: A God of Destruction. Destruction – like war – is neutral. It doesn’t care about silly ideas like good or evil, justice or injustice. All it cares for is annihilation and death.
What good are both justice and playing hero if both things never ensure survival?
‘There’s only one difference between heroes and madmen: It’s whether they win or lose.’
“Respect is earned, not given” is a controversial statement. Some believe that respect should be given to all – regardless of who they are or what they have accomplished. Others think that respect should only be earned through hard work, talent, skills, etc. In high levels of competition, respect is earned only if one is impressed by the superior flair of another person (most of the time). In the Tournament of Power, we see Jiren giving his respect towards both Goku and Vegeta: calling both men warriors. Jiren doesn’t use this term lightly, nor does he use it freely.
For Jiren, calling you a warrior is his sign of respect and admiration.
In Episode 122, as Jiren squares off against Goku, the two engage in conversation. Jiren asks Goku why does he seek to become stronger. Goku simply replies that he doesn’t know why; he just wants to. Following, Goku asks Jiren if he too wants to be stronger. Jiren states that what he wants is beyond mere, selfish thought of strength. This is a change from how Jiren initially viewed Goku (from their first fight). At first, it appears Jiren had no respect for Goku. But, after proving his worth against Jiren, we can assume that he’s a little curious about Goku’s strength and goals. It should be noted that Jiren calls Goku by his name: “Son Goku”, rather than a title like “Saiyan” or “Assassin” (as he did with Hit during his battle against him).
With this, it’s safe to say that Jiren respects Goku.
In Vegeta’s case, Jiren gives him the title of “Warrior”. As Belmod and Khai both stated, Jiren calling Vegeta “warrior” is his sign of respect Now, originally Jiren viewed Vegeta as arrogant. He even dismisses his brash fighting style as too prideful – taunting his Saiyan heritage in a sense. When Vegeta was able to hold his own against Jiren, that’s when Jiren was able to show his respect towards the Saiyan Prince.
Jiren’s respect doesn’t end there.
When Goku fought Jiren in Ep. 123, Goku overwhelmed Jiren. Not by brute strength, but by tactics and strategy. Using a combination of teleportation, Ki landmines, and Destructo Discs (or Kienzans for you purist weebs), Goku was able to knock Jiren out of the ring. This forced Jiren to use a hint of his true power to recover and combat against Goku. In turn, Goku tapped into his reserves; going Super Saiyan Blue with Kaikoen x20 stacked. Vegeta tapped into his hidden power, breaking his shell and limits. The fact both Goku and Vegeta drew out power beyond their limits could suggest that Jiren want to see both warrior’s true power in combat.
Jiren sees them as truly worthy warriors. Goku and Vegeta have earned Jiren’s respect.
“Indeed, I am arrogant. But, to me, that’s precisely what my pride as a Saiyan is!”
After his ego and pride were belittled by Jiren, Vegeta felt that he had to defend who he is as a person. As a proud Saiyan Elite prince, Vegeta dedicated his life to the art of combat, surpassing others, conquering planets, and of course – breaking his limits. It shouldn’t shock anyone that Vegeta took offense to Jiren’s criticism. Is Vegeta arrogant? Perhaps to some. However, I don’t see it as arrogance. I think he’s confident and prideful of what he has accomplished over the course of his life. After all, he has every right to act as such. Vegeta earned his high self-esteem and self-worth through hard work.
Hard work thanks to his greatest ally: His ego.
All champions have big egos. Without a big ego, they would have never become a champion.’ From Victor Pride’s article The Importance of Having a Big Ego
Why does Vegeta have a big ego? Well, it stems from a few factors. Prince Vegeta is a Saiyan. Saiyans are naturally physical, competitive warriors. Vegeta is also a paragon and of royal blood. He achieved master-level combat skills and knowledge as a child. Seeing his power, King Vegeta (his father) took him under his wing and the two conquered (and destroy) planets for years. Now mind you, Vegeta did all of this before he hit puberty – and he wasn’t finished yet.
Even as a child, Vegeta proved himself to be an outlier.
Being controlled and abused by the tyrant Frieza also impacted his ego. The Saiyans could have been a prosperous race if it wasn’t for Frieza. Frieza murdered King Vegeta. He betrayed the loyalty the Saiyans by killing them and destroying their planet. Following that, he reduced Vegeta’s status to that of a common, low-ranking lackey – completely disregarding his royal heritage.
To say Vegeta was bitter towards Frieza’s treatment is an understatement.
Then, you have the case of Kakarotto – or Son Goku. Son Goku was thought of a low-class Saiyan who would never amount to anything (in the eyes of the Elite Saiyans). Vegeta was disgusted at Goku (due to Goku’s kindhearted nature – unnatural for Saiyans). He didn’t view him as a real Saiyan – nor worthy of becoming a Super Saiyan. Even after believing that Goku was the Super Saiyan of legend, Vegeta held resentment towards Goku for obtaining such status and power. Vegeta was convinced that only he – a royal Saiyan Elite – deserved the title and power of the Super Saiyan.
It was his birthright. And Kakarotto took it away from it.
Yearning to not only obtain the Super Saiyan transformation but also surpassing Goku, Vegeta spent three years’ training to acquire his goals. He worked mercilessly – even to the point of death. It was at that point of near death is where Vegeta finally gained the power of the Super Saiyan. After years of pain and suffering, the prince reclaimed his title of the prince of three Saiyans. He even “surpassed” that blasted Kakarotto!”
(And by surpassed I mean Goku caught the heart virus and was out of commission for most of the Andoird conflict. Therefore, Vegeta was the strongest due pure “luck” on his end).
Vegeta didn’t stop there. Super Saiyan wasn’t enough to quince Vegeta’s competitive thirst. After Goku told Vegeta that they must go beyond Super Saiyan, Vegeta took this chance to prove himself as the superior Saiyan. Vegeta trained for another year in the Room of Spirit and Time (or the Hyperbolic Time Chamber for you FUNimation weebs). Then, he gained power that exceeded Super Saiyan: Super Saiyan Grade 2 (or simply, Ascended Saiyan).
Vegeta yet again surpassed Kakarotto! Oh, how Vegeta praised himself for his efforts. And then a few hours later, Vegeta was curbed stomp by Perfect Cell. See, Vegeta – although proud of yet another accolade – let his ego get the best of him. Cell tricked Vegeta into obtaining his Perfect form and made the Prince his bitch.
That was funny.
Let’s fast forward seven years. With Goku dead, Vegeta had nothing better to do. Well, besides training (because of that competitive nature). Vegeta got news that Goku was returning to the living world for the 25th Budokai Tenkaichi Tournament. He sees this as a chance to finally beat Goku once and for all. See, Vegeta never got over the fact that Goku was the better warrior. Vegeta was envious that Goku achieved so much (despite him being a low-class Saiyan). Vegeta wanted to prove once and for all he was the best. And he could have if shit didn’t go south during the tournament (the Majin Buu and Babidi conflict). During the Majin Buu conflict, Vegeta allowed his jealousy to get the best of him and let Bababi brainwash him into Majin Vegeta.
All because he wanted to show his superiority towards Goku.
The evil prince has returned! At last, Vegeta could dominate Goku in combat…by killing a bunch of innocent people and allowing the release of Majin Buu. Then Vegeta realized that his ego is problematic and that he had to sacrifice himself to take out Majin Buu – all because he fucked up.
Okay, so maybe Vegeta had some minor issues with his ego.
In the real world, high-level athletes, performing artists, and businessmen are viewed as egotistical. Their self-sense of pride are off-putting to some – but they have the right to be prideful. These people pour countless hours into their craft. Michael Jordan, one of the greatest basketball players of our time, is viewed by many as arrogant. But when you won six Championships rings, brought money to your team’s city, and created a multi-million-dollar brand, you earned the right to be arrogant. Kanye West, a rapper hated for his ego, won over 92 awards over the course of his career. He better be egotistical. Entrepreneur Tai Lopez, (in)famous for his “Here in My Garage” video (where he showcased his then-new Lamborghini) was criticized for showing off the luxury sports car and the thousands of books in his personal collection. Then again, when you are the investor and advisor to over 20 successful multi-million dollar companies, I think it’s okay to show off your trophies – and how you earned them through knawledge.
These guys have earned the right to be egotistical, cocky, and arrogant, whatever you wanna call their high levels of self-esteem. Why? Because these guys worked their asses off to get to the levels of where they are today. Vegeta is like that. Vegeta worked his ass off to maintain his Prince and Elite status. He dedicated his life to push himself beyond his limits. He earned Super Saiyan 1, Ascended, Super Saiyan 2, Super Saiyan God, and Super Saiyan God Super Saiyan.
It’s understandable to see why Vegeta was angry at Jiren’s remarks about his ego. Vegeta had to back up his pride – the thing that drives him to better himself. Vegeta himself stated that he can never throw that away. It what makes Vegeta.
Vegeta is an arrogant man. And what’s wrong with that?
‘Being humble doesn’t work as well as being aware.’
The word “tragedy” for the episode title of DBS Ep. 118 is fitting. Beerus losing his twin brother, Champa. Universe 2 was destroyed e despite their cheer and support for their team. Piccolo had to defeat warriors of his own race to survive. Valdos was in grief as she saw her hand pick warriors and good friend Champa disappear from existence. And finally, Vegeta’s anger as he saw once again, his proud warrior race destroyed.
This was truly tragic. Hiroshi Yamaguchi’s genius writing of Episode 118 should be celebrated and analyze. He graced Super with such emotions that haven’t been felt since the Future Trunks arc. It must be brought up! Since I love me some good writing, I decided to break down why this episode is so brilliant. Let’s go!
PART 1: The Beautiful Power of Love
‘Without love, it cannot be seen.’ -Ange Ushiromiya, Umineko no Naku Koro ni
Episode 118 opens up with the revelation that Team Universe 2 was broadcasting the tournament to their citizens. The people watched in despair as Ribbranne admits she – and the rest of the Kamikaze Fireballs – were defeated. She begs her beloved fans to cheer on the final three warriors with their supportive love. As requested, they start to cheer and send love. The power of their love empowers Zaolin, Zarbuto, and Rabna and pushed them to defeat Universe 7. They mentioned that the weight of Universe 2’s love is a heavy burden, but they must bear it to save their universe. This shows us that Team Universe 2 is loved by this fans. This can be proven not just story-line alone, but visually as well (as many of their fans were wearing t-shirts with members of Team Universe 2 printed on them)
With this power of love, Team Universe 2 takes charge towards Team Universe 7.
Time passes and Universe 2 is struggling. During their last stand, Zaolin, Zabun, and Rabunra summons a black heart of love. I love the symbolism used in this seen. Obviously, the heart is the symbol of love, but one should note the color of the heart: Black. Going by color theory, the color black is used as a symbol of death. If an Universe loses in this tournament, they’re erased.
Being erased means death.
Universe 2 explains how the Black Heart entraps its victims with it crushing, unbearable weight. The weight of the hearts forces itself to sink to the ground. We can take two things from this. One: the weight of this heart is the burden that Team Universe 2 must carry to protect the people they love. It represents the trust, faith, and love of the people has towards them.
Two: The sinking is symbolism of Universe 2’s defeat and death – not the defeat of Team Universe 7. You see, Goku is a simple man. While he (barely) understands the power of love, he prefers guts and spirit over it. He’s not going to let love bring him down. And so, Goku overcomes the burden of Universe 2 with a Super Saiyan Blue Kaioken Kamehameha. The Kamehameha breaks overpowers Team Universe 2, knocking them out of the ring.
Universe 2 is defeated – and destroyed.
‘It’s so beautiful. The moment before imminent destruction.’
–Sailor Saturn, Sailor Moon Infinity
Universe 2 has fallen. Yet, despite destruction approaching, they accept their fate with grace. The Universe 2’s citizen still happy and celebrating their warriors. The Kamikaze Fireballs perform one final formation; thanking their fans for their loving support. Then, we have Kakunsa’s final line:
It’s like the real world: When a love one dies, it is just their body that is dead. The precious memories, love, spirit, support, and bonds, they are still alive in the hearts of the people they touched.
Those feelings will never die.
Universe 2 kept their pride, spirit and love to the bitter end. They refused to wallow in grief. Instead, they chose to show love. They reminded true to themselves, touching the hearts of those they impacted. A sad approaching event turned into short lived happiness and grace.
PART 2: The Emotional Connection of Universes 6 and 7
While the destruction of Universe 2 is depressing, the true tragedy lies in the destruction of Universe 6: Universe 7’s twin universe. Bear in mind that members of Universe 7 have personal connections with Universe 6 (Goku and Hit having respect towards one another, Vegeta as Cabba’s mentor, etc.). In the real world, fans have grown to know and love Universe 6 since their introduction during the Unvierse 6 vs. 7 Tournament arc. Seeing Unvierse 6 being destroyed was a heavy toll for the fans.
After Universe 2 charges at Goku and Andorids 17 and 18, there is a scene where Champa is mocking Universe 7 (as Goku is struggling to fight against Universe 2) Valdos chime in to remind him that Universe 6 is at near defeat and follow up with her usual jests and jabs.But More on that later. Let’s focus on Piccolo first.
Piccolo (along with his son Gohan) are struggling against the Universe 6 Nakemians.
Gohan and Piccolo’s victory over the Nakemians means that Piccolo will, by proxy, wipe out his own people. Nakemians from another universe, but they’re still Nakemians. Back in DBZ, Piccolo had to liberate his people who were suffering under Frieza’s rule. For Piccolo to have to wipe out his own race is a heavy burden – but it’s either his universe or theirs.
The Universe 6 Nakemians go on the offensive against Gohan and Piccolo. The father/son duo is overpowered, with Gohan jumping in to protect his mentor and father figure. . Piccolo asks for Gohan’s forgiveness (as he let the fear of the Nakemians’ overwhelming power get to his head). This mirrors Dragon Ball Z when Piccolo had to risk his life to save Gohan’s. To see Gohan protecting Piccolo can be consider full circle in this sense. The two regain their composure fire back at the enemy.
Gohan, along with his (real) father Goku, both charge up their respective Kamehamehas against their enemies in unison. Both engage in a beam/energy struggle against Universe 2 and 6. Gohan is grabbed by Pirana in a failed attempt to stop and attack Gohan. Piccolo backs Gohan up with a Special Beam Cannon, stopping them. At the climax of the distinct Father-Son Kamehameha, Gohan and Goku overpower their enemies at the same time.
Universes 2 and 6 have dropped out.
The defeat of Universe 6 is a victory for Universe 7, but it’s not something to be celebrated. As I mentioned earlier, Universe 6 and 7 are twin universes. Members of Universe 7 (such as Goku and Vegeta) formed personal relationships and bonds with members of Universe 6. Goku lost Caulifia – a girl he promised he would train and mentor. You can even say that Caulifia looked up to Goku as an older brother. Piccolo defeating Universe 6 means that he – by proxy – helped wiped out members of his own race. Vegeta was promised by Cabba that he’ll give him a tour of Planet Salada to see the Saiyans of that race. Vegeta was longing to visit the King of the Saiyans of that race; since Vegeta himself is of royal blood. Vegeta will never have get that chance (assuming he does not win the chance to use the Super Dragon Balls).
What make this disheartening and tragic for Vegeta is that this man just witnessed the total destruction of his people once again. Vegeta grew up experiencing the Saiyans of Universe 7 suffering and dying under Frieza’s rule. To find out there were full-blooded Saiyans still existing in other universes made him happy. Now, they’re gone.
He isn’t happy.
Then there’s the tragedy of Beerus and Champa. Yes, the twins did fought and get into arguments, but they’re brothers; that’s natural. While they didn’t show it, you can tell they still loved each other. Even if Champa was being goofy towards Beerus at the bitter end, he still loved him. Even if Beerus was stoic about his brother’s death, you can’t say he wasn’t hurting inside. Beerus want to show it, but he has to keep it together for his team’s sake.
And that’s hard.
‘I was always thinking of you.
The reality that squeezes my heart
I was always longing to see you
And I’ll continue to forge ahead with that memory’
–70cm Squared Window by Rottengraffy (DBS ED 10)
The destruction of Universe 6 reminds me of two lines from the full version of Dragon Ball Super ED 7 “An Evil Angel and Righteous Devil”. The first: “Either destroy yourself or destroy everyone else.” Piccolo had to destroy Pirana and Saoneru. Gohan, a man who finds no joy in being maliece and hurting/killing others, had to help Piccolo do it. It was either their universe losing, or defeat Universe 6.
The second line reads “Winning or losing doesn’t benefit anyone – Everyone is simply hurt, crying at the end.” I’m reminded of this line by Valdo’s grief of losing Champa. Yes, she did make jabs and jokes at him. Yes, she did call him out on his bullshit at times. But she did care about him. She did enjoy his presence…even if she made fat jokes towards him from time to time.
It’s safe to say that those two were good friends, maybe even best friends.
This is Dragon Ball and no good popular character stay dead or erased forever. There’s the chance that somebody will use the Super Dragon Ball to bring everyone back to life and everything. I just wish with the emotional driven episode we got with Hiroshi Yamaguchi’s writing that this arc could had been a series finale arc. Perhaps Toei should had introduce this tournament arc after there was an arc were we got to know all the universes in this tournament a little better.
Just to have that stinging pain of losing them in the Tournament of Power/Unvierse Surivivial arc. Even people who hated Universe 2 (myself included) were upset and sadden by their deaths. They went out carefree and happy. They stay true themselves and rather than cry and complain about hteir last moments of life, The Kamikaze Fireballs and Hellios decided to just be graceful and be themselves.
That in itself, is tragic.
That’s the emotional brilliance of Episode 118. This is why many of us are consider this as the best wrirrten episode of the tournament so far. It reminded us how the emotional power of Dragon Ball in general. Dragon Ball is a simple Shouen action battle anime series that’s more logical than emotional. But there are times were the emotions do reveal themselves and they hit hard when they’re showcased. I hope Hiroshi Yamaguchi returns to Super to write yet another emotional episode. His writing surprising works for Dragon Ball Super.
With Beerus asking somebody to “say something” moments after the death/erasure of his twin Champa in episode 118 of Dragon Ball Super, fans are speculating if this was meant for Champa, the Angel Whis, or the narrator/audience (breaking the fourth wall). While I understand that there are reasons to believe Beerus was talking to the narrator (as the narrator spoke immediately after), I’m led to think that Beerus was talking to Champa. Beerus just lost his twin brother. Yes, they did bicker. They did fight and argue. But that it’s natural for brothers to act against each other.
At the end, Beerus still loved his brother.
You can theorize that Champa’s death has yet to sink in for Beerus. Therefore, he’s in a state of disbelief. If you have ever lost an one love, then you can understand that it’s something unexpected and sudden Minutes before, the twins were mocking and messing with each other in the bleachers. They took turns taunting each other as warriors from each one’s universe were dropping out. Then, as Universe 6 was down to just two warriors, Beerus’s attitude changed. He wasn’t his cheerful self as Whis pointed out.
The defeat of Universe 6 meant its erasure – and of his beloved brother.
The time came. Soon after the defeat of the Universe 6 Namekians, Universe 6 was erased. Despite facing death, Universe 6 was cool: as if they accepted their fate. Champa stands up and yells out for Beerus.
“Hey, bro!”
Beerus, acting stoic, looks over. Champa inhales deeply as if he is going to say a meaningful goodbye. But it’s Champa, so he did not. Champa sticks out his tongue and pulls down his eyelid. He keeps this goofy look on his face for his brother as a final, playful taunt before being erased. Beerus stares at the spot where his brother once stood, turns his head back towards the arena. He retains his stoic expression.
“Say something.”
It is the emotional writing behind Episode 118 and Beerus’ reaction to his brothers’ death that makes me wish that the Tournament of Power arc was a series finale arc. Universe 6 will be brought back. It’s Dragon Ball: the important characters never remain dead. But still, I just wish that this was it. Beerus’s sadness of losing his brother would have been the perfect end of his character arc – especially if the Super Dragon Balls didn’t have the power to bring back erased universes. Just imagine how utterly upset Beerus would have been upon hearing that the Super Dragon Balls couldn’t do something like that.
What did you guys think? Do you believe Beerus was speaking to his brother? Was this just a simple fourth wall trick? Let me know in the comments below. And thanks for reading!
‘Winning or losing doesn’t benefit anyone –
Everyone is simply hurt, crying in the end.’ -“An Evil Angel and Righteous Devil” by “The Collectors” (Dragon Ball Super’s 7th ED)
Your life is too short for you to not do anything with it. Make an impact with it while you still can. RIP Hiromi Tsuru, and thank you for providing the world with your talents.
Title: Mechanical Madness: Clash of the Artificial Humans!
Summary: Nearly 25 years after the Cell Saga, brother and sister duo Androids 17 and 18 unite in combat once again! Ordered by Mosco – Universe 3’s God of Destruction – Panchla, Borareta, and Koltsukai start to hunt down the Android twins. Unmoved by their oncoming attackers, the Androids smirk at each other before charging at the threat with such great and furious offense. They appear to show dominance over the robots but…
““Gattai!”
STAFF LISTING:
Producer: Hiroyuki Sakurada
Storyboard: Masanori Sato
Planner: Kōzō Morishita
Script: Hiroshi Toda (Scenario writer for the TV special Dragon Ball Z: History of Trunks)
Animation: Yuya Takahashi
Music: Norihito Sumitomo
What do you guys think? I’m excited that Androids 17 and 18 are teaming up again, it makes me excited. The term “Gattai” (lit. “Combine”) is used in many classic mecha anime and Super Zentai . With Kale and Caulifa fusing into Kefla from this past episode 114, I wouldn’t be surprised if Panchla, Borareta, and Koltsukai fused into a super robot. Given Toriyama draws influences from Super Zentai shows and sci-fi movies, seeing those robots fuse is not out of the realm of possibility.
Also, if you believe any of this, well good sir or madam, you’ve been duped. You deserve to be fooled by misleading and false information on anything Dragon Ball Super related. I hope you’re tricked by clickbait articles and vlogs from the likes of Blasting News and Double4Anime until the end of time.
Seriously. There’s no source from any official websites or trustworthy members of the Dragon Ball community. As Akira Toriyama famously said in a May 2013 JUMP Magazine interview:
‘Do not believe anything you read on the internet about my works, upcoming projects, and episodes from unconfirmed, unofficial, and untrustworthy sources – even if they list staff members from Toei. They’re trying to trick you into giving them your views. To be blunt, I’m sick and tired of the misinformation in the community and fanbase.
Episode 112 of Dragon Ball Super has me thinking; Frieza will be the one to defeat Universe 6. You may be asking “How so? How can you be so sure?” Well, this odd theory I have comes from the fact that the final warriors of Universe 6 are made up of two Saiyans and two Nakemians. And as well all know, Frieza has a fantastic history with members of those races.
His hand slipped.
Frieza hates Saiyans. I’m talking your racist neighbor getting mad every-time he sees those “illegal” Mexicans across the street level of hatred. The mere sight of those uncivilized monkeys fuels Frieza with great, furious anger. Frieza wants nothing more but to kill any and all Saiyans – even if they’re from another universe. Frieza mentions to Cabba that wants to play fun with Kale and Caulifla. Frieza, he’s a fan of games with full cooperation from others. Those are his favorite type of games after-all. Like the classic chocking game. That’s a game where Frieza wraps his tail around his buddy’s throats, and starts squeezing the life out of them until they choke to death.
He’s also a fan of the game “Shoot people’s pressure points with non-lethal Death Beams Barrages until they’re begging for the sweet release of death.” I think Kale and Caulifla will become great fans of those games. It’s going to suck when Frieza decides that he’s bored and stops playing with them. Maybe he might bring them back with the Super Dragon Balls if Universe 7 wins. Plus, having two Saiyan monkey girls just means he’s respect diversity and equal gender rights in the work place!
Diversity quotas don’t fill themselves now.
Now, let us imagine Frieza meeting the Universe 6’s Namekians. Just picture his joy! He’ll become so happy that Universe 6 has Namekians too! Frieza will get all warm and nostalgic – reflecting on his youthful days of Planet Namek. Days where he made those green people bow at his feet. Ahh, that was a great period in his life. Shooting Dende in the head. His troops hunting and killing the lot of them. Ripping that one Namek who look like Piccolo arm off. I think his name was Nail or something I dunno they all look alike. Frieza strikes me as a fellow who loves reliving his glory days of being a ruthless dictator on Namek. I mean, look how happy Frieza was when he was healing Goku. It brought back lovely memories of Namek. I hope him meeting those Nameks of Universe 6 will re-spark that happiness once more.
Nail vs. Lord Slug
Here’s where my theory comes to play.
It’s strange that the final four warriors of Universe 6 include members of two races that Frieza has a past relationship with. In the past five episodes or so, Frieza was given some shine story-line wise. We can assume that Toei wants to build some focus on Frieza, the Saiyan girls, and the Namekians (whom were given a little shine in Episode 111). Before I forget, let me bring reminder you that universes who were shown to have low numbers (sans Universe 11) were doomed to erasure (as we’ve seen with Universe 9 and 10).
See where I’m going with this?
I predictthat in the near future, Frieza will take out the Saiyan girls and the Nameks. Therefore, with their elimations, Universe 6 will be erased. They’ve lost their leader and strongest warrior — Hit. Their morale is low. Frieza’s hatred for Saiyans has no bond. He also doesn’t take too kindly to Namekians either. I may be wrong, but I think Toei is hinting that Frieza will be the one who will slaughter Universe 6.
That or this all a red herring from Toei. The Namekieans are going to get a Toriyama handjob, the Saiyan girls are going to get a Toriyama finger bang, and get an asspull powerup and defeat Frieza and we’re all being mislead by Toei and Trollriyama.
Your father has finally given in! After years of belittling and disowning you for it, he wants to watch those weird, girly “Chinese cartoons” with you. Your football jock buddy has been curious about those anime cons you attend often. He wants to bang him a hot, but depressed/mentality disturbed cosplay girl. But he wants to watch some anime first (so he won’t appear like a total tool). Your African-American youth pastor just heard about this Bible Black anime and wants to know if it’s about Black people going to church (spoilers: it’s not). Your entry level weeb girlfriend has finally grown some taste. She doesn’t want to watch Dragon Ball Z or Sailor Moon anymore. She wants something more deep and artsy.
Suggesting anime to newcomers and casuals alike can be a difficult task. The world of anime is full of diverse shows begging to be watched. The effort to suggest a show to your normie friend might be overwhelming; as there are millions and millions of anime out there in this world. You can’t choose one over another to start them out with. You may be thinking “Well, I can show them the classics! Everyone loves the classics!”. You’re right. You can show them a classic anime series. Good luck with that though. Some people don’t have the time to watch 100+ episodes of a “classic” series (whatever that means). Your friend might not like a classic anime series like Fist of the North Star. The violence and length of the series might them him off.
You could try a short and sweet classic series. Like, let’s say High School of the Dead. It has that 1970s grindhouse movie influence with the violence, gore, and sex appeal. Yeah! That might work. Then again, you don’t want to show your dad an anime full of fanservice and big tiddy animu girls (it’ll give him clues on why you’re such a kissless virgin).
“But Benjamin! I can suggest Cowboy Bebop to my normie dad, right?! It doesn’t have high school girls being sexualized like HSOTD! It’s a modern classic!” Sure! You can do that. But what if they hate space adventure sci-fi series? They’re gonna be bored with Cowboy Bebop and drop it after five minutes.
(And you wonder why you’ll never have a great relationship with your father. No wonder he’s more proud of your sports playing older brother than he is with your Chinese cartoon watching ass!)
Now, do you see why it’s hard to suggest anime to non-anime fans? Many of you assume that they’ll like an anime because it’s a classic. No son, it doesn’t always work like that. But don’t fret! I, Benjamin “The Greatest of All Time” Snow, will use my oh-so-superior, borderline arrogant, and elitist anime wisdom to great use. I myself will help you suggest great anime to your non-anime watching friends. You can trust me; you guys already know my tastes are great (and if you don’t know, now you know). So, how do you go about suggesting new anime? Well, it’s real simple and easy.
Check this out.
The best way to suggest anime to non-anime fans is this: show them anime based genres, TV shows, movies, etc. they already like. That’s it. Seriously. It’s neither complex nor deep. Your dad, he loves the sport of boxing, right? He loves boxing movies such as Rocky and Million Dollar Baby. Get him to watch the classic boxing series Hajimete no Ippo by Studio Madhouse. Simple. Very simple.
Your brother, he’s a kung-fu film fan, no? He spends hours emulating spinning kicks and karate chops in front of the mirror. He idolizes Jackie Chan: the legendary martial arts master and actor. The classic martial arts adventure Dragon Ball is right up his alley! Dragon Ball was inspired by many kung-fu movies that Toriyama (a major movie fan) watched in his spare time during the development of Dragon Ball. Your brother might catch some classic kung-fu movie references in this epic series.
Is your friend a sci-fi nerd who loves long-running, story-driven space epics like Star Trek? Have him check out Legend of the Galactic Heroes; a series with vivid characters of various backgrounds. He might even enjoy the military and political narrative themes of Galactic Heroes.
Now, that wasn’t so hard, right? You just need research anime series that will match non-anime friend’s interests. Don’t suggest shows that you like – your friend may not like them. Remember: one bad experience with a show could turn them off from all anime forever. You don’t want that.
Now, what if your friend or family members are already casual anime fans? They have a few popular series under their belts such as Death Note or Naruto, right? Yet, they want to branch out to other series but don’t know where to start. I gotcha, it’s just as easy as suggesting anime to non-anime fans.
Since you have a general idea of what shows they like, you can suggest new series based around their favorites. If they like Bleach then, they may like Yu Yu Hakusho. If they like fanservice, have them watch Monogatari. Your little sister enjoys Sailor Moon? Have her watch Card Captor Sakura or Madoka next. Over time, you can show your casual friends more artistic, deeper anime such as Paranoid Agent or Ani*Kuri 15. It will take some time for your casual friends to get into series that aren’t considered mainstream. Be patient.
Before I go let me say this: Do not get offended if your non-anime or casual anime fan friend or family member doesn’t like the shows you do. If they like a show you don’t, let them enjoy it. Attacking shows that they like, or getting upset that they do not like the shows you enjoy only makes you an insecure little bitch.
Don’t be a little bitch.
(Note: The Shit Art Online image is for clickbait views only. Never suggest such a trash series to anyone it doesn’t deserve money or more fans.)
After defeating Obuni of Universe 10 (as well as being the direct cause of that universe’s erasure/death) Gohan examines a pedant on the arena floor left behind by him. Inside, there’s a picture of Obuni, his wife, and infant child. The shot switches back to Gohan – his facial expression and silence tells the tone and emotion of his actions. Gohan not only just kill a family man like himself, but an entire universe. An universe full of innocent people caught in the “crossfire” of this tournament.
This sets in hard for Gohan (and the audience) once the pedant itself is erased from existence.
Gohan isn’t someone with a malice heart, nor is he a person who enjoys harming others for pleasure. He is a very emphatic man who deeply cares about the well-being of others. We can assume that he did not want to defeat Obuni and wipe out/kill his universe; but Gohan had to do whatever it took to ensure the survival of his own family, friends, and universe. Even still – no matter how you want to twist it – Gohan is responsible for the loss of countless lives with his action.
Meanwhile, as Gohan is reflecting on his actions, Universe 10’s angel Cus is visibly upset at the destruction of her universe and warriors. I’d even go as far to say that she might have been on the verge of crying. It’s clear that Cus treated Gowasu and Rumsshi with respect and kindness; given her positive interactions with them. Cus enjoyed the presence of her warriors as we saw her cheerfully dancing with them for a Gowasu’s GodTube’s channel and taking pictures with each warrior.
To her, those warriors and Gods weren’t just pawns she was using in order to win. Those were people whom she viewed as friends. People she cared for.
This brings me to the title of this post. “Winning or Losing Doesn’t Benefit Anyone” is taken from a line from the full version of Dragon Ball ED 7 “An Evil Angel and Rightous Devil”. The verse from the line itself reads as follow:
‘Angels and devils: even if the devils were really angels,
Righteousness and evil would still hold no meaning.
Winning or losing doesn’t benefit anyone –
Everyone is simply hurt, crying in the end.’
The Tournament of Power was created in order to balance out good and evil in the multiverse. The eight universe in combat each have horrible mortal ratings (some worse than others) and thus, in order to ensure this balance, the losing universes must be wiped out.
However…
As the lyrics state, what benefit does winning or losing bring to others? What benefits are gained for the sake of of the greater good if innocent lives are lost in the process – Lives whom which weren’t fighting in this tournament? Lives treated as expendable.
We saw this with Cus, who I believe was about to cry as she witnessed her friends’ existence being erased. We saw this with Gohan reflecting on him (unwilling) killing Universe 10. Hell, Universe 10 was Gowasu’s universe. Gowasu was Goku, Vegeta, and Trunks’s ally during the Zamasu incident. While Goku is an idiot with selfish desires, he does care about his friends. Imagine how Goku will feel about Gowasu’s existence being wiped out.
In fact, let’s take any positive outcome out and create a dark, depressing ending.
Let’s say the Super Plot Balls aren’t able to bring back all the universes that were erased, or that the Zenos won’t bring them back for their own selfish reasons. Then what? How Goku going to feel about people he respect from different universes (such as Hit and Caulifia) not being revived – all because he wanted a fight.
The more emphatic victors of the tournament are going to feel like utter shit for causing the loss of countless innocent lives. The angels who have a wonderful (or at the very least good) relationship with their Gods and warriors gonna be sadden. I wouldn’t be shock if Cus or any other angel with a good heart will revolt against their father (the Grand Priest) and the Zenos.
Yea, all the universes with the low moral rating and evilness are gone. But if people are going to question if their actions and you got Angels who’re upset that their universes are gone, then what benefit does that bring to anyone?
‘You know who suffers then? The people.’ -Levin (Fire Emblem 4: Genealogy of the Holy War)
Yuki The Snowman 
