That’s how long I’ve been reading this book—once a year. And every year, my perspective on their story changes. Now that 2026 is almost over, I decided to watch the film adaptation of this manga, and I just finished reading the manga right now. Honestly? Way back nine years ago, I really, really hated Itou for what he did to Nishi, and I felt he didn’t deserve Nishi because of what he did. Year by year, this book always leads me back here. And each year, my reactions are different. As I grow older and enter society, I understand both of their perspectives more and more, especially Itou’s. I really can’t bring myself to hate Itou anymore, unlike before. This is reality. Real-life situations. That’s why I love this book. It shows real love. Real life. The reality that we are all only human—we make mistakes, we regret them, we get second chances, and we find love again. It’s hard to pursue what you love in this generation. It’s hard to find the love of your life now—not with technology around, not with the standards being imposed on us, not without money, and not in this society where it’s hard to live. So this year, I’ve realized that as I get older, I can’t help but appreciate this book again and again. I’m thankful to the author/manga artist/director who made this story and brought it to life. I cried painfully again this year. See you again next year, Itou and Nishi.
That’s how long I’ve been reading this book—once a year. And every year, my perspective on their story changes. Now that 2026 is almost over, I decided to watch the film adaptation of this manga, and I just finished reading the manga right now. Honestly? Way back nine years ago, I really, really hated Itou for what he did to Nishi, and I felt he didn’t deserve Nishi because of what he did. Year by year, this book always leads me back here. And each year, my reactions are different. As I grow older and enter society, I understand both of their perspectives more and more, especially Itou’s. I really can’t bring myself to hate Itou anymore, unlike before. This is reality. Real-life situations. That’s why I love this book. It shows real love. Real life. The reality that we are all only human—we make mistakes, we regret them, we get second chances, and we find love again. It’s hard to pursue what you love in this generation. It’s hard to find the love of your life now—not with technology around, not with the standards being imposed on us, not without money, and not in this society where it’s hard to live. So this year, I’ve realized that as I get older, I can’t help but appreciate this book again and again. I’m thankful to the author/manga artist/director who made this story and brought it to life. I cried painfully again this year. See you again next year, Itou and Nishi.