Thank You Kentaro Miura

(The following is a letter I wrote upon hearing of the passing of my favorite manga author one year ago today)

Dear Kentaro Miura,

I write this letter with a heavy heart, filled with gratitude and sorrow. Appreciation for the incredible world you brought to life through your masterpiece, "Berserk," and gloom for the untimely loss of a visionary creator like yourself. Your passing has left a void in the hearts of millions touched by your work, myself included.

I want to express my deepest appreciation for " Berserk " 's profound impact on my life. In a time of great struggle, when I was injured during my service in the army, your creation became a guiding light in the darkness. Guts, the protagonist of "Berserk," became more than just a fictional character to me; he became an inspiration, a symbol of unwavering determination and resilience.

As I followed Guts on his perilous journey, I saw a reflection of my battles. My physical pain was nothing compared to the emotional turmoil that plagued my mind. Like Guts, I concealed this turmoil from my family and friends, wearing a mask of strength while battling my demons. Through Guts, I learned that it is not weakness to struggle but strength to persevere, even when the world's weight feels unbearable.

Your artistry and storytelling transported me into a dark fantasy world where the line between good and evil was blurred. You fearlessly explored the depths of human nature, showcasing the rawness of our emotions and the complexity of our choices. Your ability to depict the beauty in darkness and the horror in light was genuinely remarkable.

But now, as I write this letter, my heart aches for the realization that your incredible tale may remain forever unfinished. The news of your passing was shocking, leaving countless fans in mourning. Yet, even in this sorrow, I hope your story will find its conclusion, even if it takes a different form.

Your legacy, Kentaro Miura, stretches far beyond the pages of "Berserk." You have inspired generations of artists, writers, and dreamers to push the boundaries of their imagination. You have touched the lives of countless individuals, offering solace, strength, and a sense of belonging through your incredible work.

Although you are no longer with us, your spirit lives on within the hearts of your fans. We will forever cherish the world you created, the characters you breathed life into, and the messages of resilience, courage, and the pursuit of one's path that you instilled in us.

Thank you, Kentaro Miura, for sharing your gift with the world. Your genius will forever be remembered, and your absence will be deeply felt. May you rest in peace, knowing that you have left an indelible mark on the world of manga and the lives of those who had the privilege of experiencing your art.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you!