March Comes in Like a Lion: A Deep Dive
An exploration of what makes March Comes in Like a Lion an essential manga.
Story Summary
March Comes in Like a Lion (３月のライオン, Sangatsu no Lion) is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Chika Umino, best known for her previous work, Honey and Clover. The story follows Rei Kiriyama, a 17-year-old professional shogi player grappling with immense loneliness and personal struggles. Having lost his family at a young age, Rei lives alone in Tokyo and seeks solace in his shogi career, but finds it a challenging path filled with competition and self-doubt.
The narrative intricately weaves together Rei's journey in the competitive world of shogi with his developing relationships with the Kawamoto sisters—Akari, Hinata, and Momo. They provide him with a sense of warmth, family, and emotional support that he has long been deprived of. As Rei spends more time with the Kawamoto family, he begins to heal from his past traumas and learn the true meaning of connection and belonging.
Throughout the manga, Rei encounters various characters, each with their own unique backgrounds and motivations. These characters include fellow shogi players, rivals, and mentors who impact Rei's growth both as a shogi player and as an individual. The story delves into themes of isolation, depression, family, friendship, and the pursuit of passion.
Key Characters
- Rei Kiriyama: The protagonist, a talented but emotionally scarred professional shogi player. He is introverted and struggles to connect with others, finding comfort and purpose in shogi.
- Akari Kawamoto: The eldest of the three Kawamoto sisters. She is kind, nurturing, and acts as a mother figure to her younger sisters and to Rei.
- Hinata Kawamoto: The middle sister. She is cheerful, optimistic, and fiercely protective of her family. Hinata faces her own challenges, particularly in dealing with bullying at school.
- Momo Kawamoto: The youngest sister. She is innocent, playful, and brings a sense of joy and light-heartedness to the story.
- Kyoko Kouda: Rei's foster sister and a complex character with a troubled past. She harbors resentment towards Rei and often acts as an antagonist in his life.
- Masachika Kouda: Rei's foster father and a professional shogi player. He is strict and demanding, placing immense pressure on Rei.
Thematic and Narrative Analysis
March Comes in Like a Lion is a masterfully crafted manga that explores profound themes with sensitivity and depth. The narrative excels in portraying the psychological struggles of its characters, particularly Rei's battle with depression and loneliness. Umino's storytelling is characterized by its nuanced character development, realistic portrayal of emotions, and subtle humor.
The manga's strength lies in its ability to balance the intense competition of the shogi world with the heartwarming interactions between Rei and the Kawamoto sisters. The Kawamoto family provides a stark contrast to Rei's solitary existence, offering him a sense of belonging and acceptance that he desperately needs.
Visually, the manga is stunning, with Umino's distinctive art style capturing the characters' emotions and the atmosphere of each scene. The use of detailed backgrounds and expressive character designs enhances the storytelling and immerses the reader in the world of March Comes in Like a Lion.
Chapter Breakdowns (General Overview)
While specific chapter breakdowns can vary and are best experienced firsthand, the general progression of the manga involves:
- Early Chapters: Introduce Rei and his background, focusing on his struggles in shogi and his initial interactions with the Kawamoto sisters. These chapters establish the themes of loneliness and the search for belonging.
- Mid Chapters: Explore Rei's relationships with other shogi players and his rivals. These chapters delve deeper into the competitive world of shogi and the challenges Rei faces in his career. They also showcase the growing bond between Rei and the Kawamoto family.
- Later Chapters: Focus on the personal growth of the characters, particularly Rei and Hinata. These chapters address themes of bullying, family conflict, and the pursuit of personal happiness. The story also delves into the backstories of supporting characters, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
March Comes in Like a Lion is a deeply moving and thought-provoking manga that resonates with readers of all ages. Its exploration of complex emotions, relatable characters, and beautiful art style make it a truly exceptional work.