azenta

[azenta]

Dissecting Naruto’s Ending in Good Faith

Let's consider the possibility that Kishimoto's ending was deliberate—that things ended how they should've, and some plots weren't mistakes (looking at you, Kaguya).

Okay, hear me out. By assuming this, we can explore the series with a good-faith reading. Recently, I’ve been reflecting on the series as an adult, and it’s shaken up many of my beliefs and perceptions—it's somewhat distressing, so I’ve been processing all this in therapy too, and coming to key conclusions. I think It's crucial to understand the motivations behind Kishimoto's choices, not just within the Narutoverse but also within the Kishiverse. Why did he make the decisions he did?

Why did he suddenly introduce reincarnations and fate? Aliens? Why the couples that seemingly came out of nowhere? Why doesn't Naruto quite change the system, or help the Hyugas? The final arc, overall, just seemed quite jarring, with some plots (like fate) seemingly subverting the message of the series.

I wonder, then, if Kishimoto's ending shows more of a realistic world rather than an idealized one. Reality often unfolds messily and sadly, devoid of perfect resolutions. Whether intentional or not, Kishimoto's storytelling may reflect his acknowledgment of the imperfect nature of existence. His reality bleeds into his creation, and he's subject to the same harsh realities his characters face.

Fate, Justice, and Change

In this unideal depiction, Naruto and Sasuke's actions are tied to fate rather than free will, Sasuke doesn't achieve his revolution, Naruto doesn't dismantle the shinobi system, and both end up in marriages that seem sudden and unsatisfactory.

If Kishimoto indeed intended this, why? Well, change often takes time, and sometimes change doesn’t even happen at all. People can become tired of fighting for a cause in certain ways, and settle for smaller victories. Relationships may not always align with desires, leading to compromises for convenience.

It's intriguing that Kishimoto explores themes of defying fate while ultimately making Naruto destined to save the world anyway. By making even the protagonists constrained by destiny, Kishimoto echoes historical cycles of rise and fall. Perhaps there's something inevitable about human love and hatred. We can begin to see Kishimoto's philosophical musings on how the universe came to be—the First Cause theory, that there's a divine Creator behind the universe. Or, perhaps, no matter the circumstances or our destinies, we must try to make our own decisions.

And, Sasuke's lack of revolution may not be a complete surrender. He doesn't fully support the system, remaining detached from the bureaucratic and familial norms by traveling. He pursues justice by roaming the world as a vagabond, championing justice as a vigilante. Sasuke has never been one to adhere strictly to Konoha's rules; he eschews the headband and prioritizes loyalty to his morals and loved ones. His rebellion does not manifest as he initially envisioned because his youthful idealism inevitably wanes. But this doesn’t take away from his fight, because Kishimoto portrays him as insightful and intelligent, showing that Sasuke can recognize the pragmatic benefits of partial conformity. He forever remains committed to his pursuit of justice by traveling and aiding others. Thus, his true surrender lies in acknowledging that he can be loved without compromising his strength, refuting the notion of love as a weakness.

As for Naruto, he isn't ignorant—he does comprehend the situation fully, sharing a deep understanding with Sasuke that transcends words (“I know your heart, and you mine” telepathic conversations). While it doesn't seem like much has changed, the events in Boruto unfold merely two decades after Naruto's era, a short span in historical terms. Significant societal transformations typically require centuries, not mere decades. Nevertheless, Naruto succeeds in establishing an era of peace, which Kishimoto shows through the relatively low stakes in Boruto. And when there are threats, they often manifest on a cosmic scale involving gods and extraterrestrial beings. While Naruto and Sasuke have brokered peace among nations, they acknowledge the inevitability of conflicts and warfare. Naruto's focus shifts towards fortifying the system itself, striving for safety within the constraints of reality.

Unexpected and Reluctant Couples

To thoroughly analyze the series, we must also examine the role of romance, as Kishimoto's introduction of romantic pairings significantly impacts plot themes, character development, and motivations. Whether we embrace it or not, these pairings alter the essence of characters in ways previously unseen.

In the canon material (manga and anime main story only), Sasuke and Naruto exhibit no romantic interest in Sakura and Hinata throughout the series. In fact, neither actively pursues romance in general. Sasuke states as such to Kakashi, and Naruto tells Jiraiya he’s not interested in girls. While Naruto initially does have feelings for Sakura, he eventually relinquishes them. Both protagonists prioritize their ideological missions above all else, with exceptions made for their friendship with each other. Sasuke, for instance, abandons his vendetta against Itachi when he sacrifices himself for Naruto in the Land of Waves, while Naruto is willing to forsake his dream of becoming Hokage to die to save Sasuke from loneliness and hatred.

So, how does Kishimoto portray their eventual marriages? Sakura pursues Sasuke persistently, repeatedly confessing her feelings until he ultimately relents and agrees to a family life with her. Meanwhile, Naruto displays no romantic interest in Hinata, even disregarding her confession during the battle with Pain. When he eventually marries her and starts a family, it feels contrived and dispassionate, a jarring image contrasting the boisterous Naruto we know. These relationships seem to emerge out of duty and resignation rather than genuine affection. Both Sasuke and Naruto appear worn down by their wives' persistence, leading them to reluctantly accept their marriages.

These couples have sparked considerable debate within the fandom, and rightly so, because they are not healthy or truly romantic relationships; rather, the depiction reflects the harsh realities of many real-life relationships. Kishimoto deliberately portrays Naruto and Sasuke's marriages with little prior development; a deliberate narrative choice rather than an oversight, he highlights their dissatisfaction through their roles as absentee fathers.

And in terms of specifics, Naruto's marriage seems to revolve more around Hinata than anything else. Consider this: why is Naruto portrayed as uncharacteristically serious and subdued when interacting with Hinata? Even during the pivotal moment when he finally confesses his love to her, his demeanor remains stoic and solemn. Where is the goofy and expressive Naruto we know and love? Additionally, why does Kishimoto include comments from other characters urging Naruto to "treat her well"? Because Naruto's marriage is not primarily about him; Hinata simply happened to be there, and it’s his duty to follow up on that.

And for Sasuke, why do we see panels like the family dinner in Boruto where Sasuke appears utterly miserable? Why is Sasuke never around? Why didn’t Kishimoto even give them a kiss scene? Why does Sasuke mostly display emotions when he's engaged in combat or interacting with Naruto? It's because Sasuke finds purpose and vitality in fighting for his beliefs, and Naruto is the only character depicted by Kishimoto who truly understands Sasuke's innermost thoughts and feelings. Sakura doesn't get Sasuke's essence. Isn't a marriage supposed to be built on true understanding, and progression?

Kishimoto, as an artist, is deliberate in his choices, and these details are not mistakes. Canonically, both Sasuke and Naruto are depicted as tired or subdued in their relationships. Despite Kishimoto drawing them blushing in various situations before, neither of them ever exhibits such reactions when interacting with their wives. This deliberate choice by Kishimoto, despite them being his beloved main characters, shows that Sasuke and Naruto are not in love with Sakura and Hinata.

Love and (lack of) Romance

Sasuke and Naruto are not portrayed as romantic individuals; rather, they are depicted as traumatized fighters and idealists driven by a desire to change the world.

Kishimoto remains true to this characterization throughout the series, extending into Boruto. While Naruto is largely a series about love, it's not focused on romantic love. Instead, it delves into the concept of transcendent love and optimism amidst adversity, encompassing love found in seeking revenge, striving to change the world, and fostering bonds of friendship and loyalty. The relationship between Naruto and Sasuke is the one Kishimoto gives the most development to in the series, and embodies nuances of love, rivalry, loyalty, and compromise. This love isn’t necessarily romantic, but it can also be anything because it is transcendent love. This part is up to you to decide and I believe doesn’t take away from their story either way.

Another question that arises is, does Kishimoto really just suck at writing romance? Well, not really. He’s demonstrated his ability to craft compelling romances, such as those between Minato and Kushina, and Asuma and Kurenai. However, he chose not to apply this to Naruto and Hinata or Sasuke and Sakura. Although, he does show that Sasuke cares for Karin at one point, even awakening a new power for her, but takes it back as their relationship ultimately falls victim to Sasuke's madness at the time (although I believe this relationship, along with Naruto x Sasuke, can tentatively be argued for, but I digress for now).

These decisions reflect 1) the fact that Naruto and Sasuke's characters are not about romantic love; their goals and convictions for justice are prioritized above all else 2) Hinata and Sakura are not The Ones for them. Thus, their seemingly unhappy relationships serve as a reflection of their de-prioritization of romantic love in favor of their greater missions.

Further, realistically, people don't always end up with their ideal partners. Many people settle in relationships because they desire families or because they are pursued by others, rather than actively seeking out their soulmates. Kishimoto chooses to depict Naruto and Sasuke with a lack of emotional expression with their respective spouses. Even in the presence of their own children, Naruto and Sasuke are not depicted with joyful expressions, suggesting a lack of fulfillment in their familial roles.

The Whitepill

Ultimately, the way things turned out seems disheartening at first because shows are meant to inspire and provide an escape from reality. Throughout the series, Kishimoto led us to believe in the possibility of an ideal ending, where change is attainable and love conquers all.

But, Kishimoto's decision to depict Naruto and Sasuke's inability to achieve 100% of what we desire is, in fact, profound. The truth is, we can't always get exactly what we want, but we can make small compromises and strive for justice in whatever ways we can. This struggle is something humanity has faced throughout its history. Our world is far from ideal. But, we are still able to achieve bits of justice in ways we can; we get just enough to keep us going, to leave us with the thirst for more.

Naruto and Sasuke's best efforts serve as inspiration for us to take up the mantle and continue the fight.

Perhaps Kishimoto portrays Sasuke's surrender not because he believes Naruto is unequivocally right, but because Sasuke wants to choose love, and is inherently kind and idealistic. He cares deeply about his friend and desires to see positive change in the world. Sasuke's journey leads him to become a protector of not just Konoha, but all villages, reflecting his compassion for people everywhere.

Similarly, Kishimoto may depict Naruto continuing on as part of the existing system not because Naruto is complacent, but because he's someone who seeks to work within established frameworks rather than tearing them down completely. This approach doesn't diminish Naruto's convictions or his commitment to change; rather, it reflects his pragmatic approach to achieving his goals while minimizing disruption

Ideal World and Optimism

Despite this, Naruto’s ending does not really make sense in an ideal world. In an ideal world, there would be a more perfect compromise, we wouldn't be bound by our fate, and the oppressive shinobi system would be dismantled. Naruto and Sasuke would have more time to heal and explore the world alone, and eventually find fulfillment in their love lives; Sasuke would find someone who truly understands him, while Naruto would enjoy a relationship where he can be his true, expressive self. Sakura would be able to move past her childhood infatuation and grow personally, while Hinata would gain confidence and develop her own identity.

Therefore, reading from a purely Narutoverse standpoint, the issues I mentioned do, in fact, undermine the themes and relationships built over the course of the narrative. Maybe Kishimoto fumbled after all, and Boruto sucks, and is simply a cash grab. But, there are many influences that led to this, and Kishimoto's mindscape and reality surely play a vital role.

Regardless, Kishimoto's big mistake is being too subtle and abrupt in introducing the new concepts at the end. However, in doing so, he has successfully sparked ongoing disagreement and discourse that persists even a decade after the series concluded.

In this sense, he has effectively brought attention to the messages: make love, not war; seek change, not complacency; and find The One, don’t settle. And even if I’m wrong in everything and this whole essay is just a copium, it's a lot better to believe in my ideals than to accept defeat. Because, Naruto taught me one invaluable lesson—no matter the odds, never give up.

#really like the analysis #i would prefer to think it was intentional #but on that regard i remain skeptical sadly... #idk the truth of why it had to end the way it did. but that take would be how i would like it to be #i also hate the sasusaku and naruhina relationship... #For those pairing to remotely make sense it should have had development *way earlier* on #not halfway suddenly for conveniency. because it would made sense. #but those relationships didnt because they didnt make sense. they werent natural at any point in time #anyway... i hate how romance happened in Naruto even tho it does align with what happens most of the time #in reality per se #naruto essay #naruto #good read

[azenta]

March 2024

Another insta challenge.

Draw a cat -

Fur length:

Short hair = Hairless cat

Mid length = Short fur

✅️Long hair = Fluffy cat

Fur pattern:

- Birthmark = patterns

- Freckles = Spotted pattern

- Nothing particular = One full color

Color: Your favorite fruit (Tomato 🍅 lol)

Accessories:

- No animals or other kind = Collar

- Have a dog = Sweater

- ✅️ Have a Cat = Hat

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⚠️No reposting

Thank you for understanding 🙂

#art #procreate #instagram challenge #digital art #personal art #no repost #thx 🧡

[azenta]

~February 2024~

Insta "Challenge" with date of birth.

Hair length: Last digit of your date of birth - 0 = shortest and 9 the longest (10).

Color palette: Birthstone (Peridot)

Outfit: According to the Season (Summer)

Accessories: Astrological Sign (Leo - I went subtle on this one. More so her attitude that reflects Leo a bit)

Program: Procreate 💚

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⚠️No reposting

Thank you for understanding 🙂

#art #digital #instagram challenge #procreate #personal art #no repost #thx 💚

[azenta]

January 2024

Original Character: Izaale

“Pale skin, ominous smile, maniacal eyes… She reeks “danger”. Her nails turn into claws on command, made from the thickening of her blood. Even her voice foretells disaster. Nothing about her is inviting. Her sole redeeming quality is that she is transparent about it. She doesn’t try to hide that fact and doesn’t pretend otherwise either. She wants anyone to know she is bad news. Despite everything, she is far less evil than it lets on.

Her origins are unknown - almost. Those who know are exceptions, being themselves kind of “exceptions”. Nonetheless, it makes her an even odder creature.

Still a lot have to be said about this peculiar individual… But a lot need to be known to begin with.”

___________

⚠️ No reposting 🚫

#digital art #digital creation #oc #original character #creepy #crazy #love her🖤💚 #my crazies

[azenta]

January 2024

First digital drawing on Procreate.

I spent so much time on it lmao I had much more fun to create on Procreate than other program I used. Buying an IPad was a costly but wonderful decision. Very happy about it 😊

_____________

⚠️ No reposting 🚫

Thank you~

#digital art #art #personal art #oc #i had no particular inspiration behind this character #i just wanted to draw lol #own art

[azenta]

"If I offered you my hand, would you take it...?"

Soft like satin, her voice rose with a seducing offer. Few are the ones who could resist the tantalizing offer of an enchanter. I resisted and sprinted forward. It's just a reminder of why I believe this world shouldn't be.

-- ???, excerpt of lost text.

#moodboard #mb #collage #worldbuilding #character #lost text #story extract #note: i dont own the original pictures only the collage itself is made by me.

[azenta]

Eerie, strange, unusual, somber... Lay tall, shadows of skeletal vegetation. One's perception is elusive when erring in those unnatural settings. What is seen is not what is. Lost is an euphemism when it comes to those who wandered on those territories. And none would notice when their foot first touches the beginning of those places, even less know if it will ever crosses back to reality.

-- ???

#collage #moodboard #mb #worldbuilding #eerie #environment #fantastical #paranormal #note: I dont own the original pictures - only the collage itself is made by me. #getting tired to write it down on the post itself. been ruining the Ae since the beginning

[azenta]

-Genesis-

A lost world, for lost ones. Creeped by shadows and sinister beings. Melancholy and folly, merge together into a hopeful tragedy. Sinners and victims, predators and preys, dancing fiercely and hopelessly. Shall it ever end, but it only began...

---~~○°•.,☆,.•°○~~---

Note: I do not own nor pretend ownership on any of the above pictures. Only the collage was made by me.

#moodboard #mb #artistic #expression #worldbuilding #gloomy #mystery #collage #for those who knows: #fgo #oberon vortigern #partially unrelated.... buuuut. maybe?

[azenta]

"Even odd creatures crave softness in this harsh world..."

Remnants of the past collide, creating a mixture of delicatness, harshness, and weirdness. Nonetheless, retaining the quality of love and desire to bond with each other.

-- ???

---~~○°•.,☆,.•°○~~---

Note: I do not own nor pretend ownership on any of the above pictures. Only the collage was made by me.

#moodboard #mb #q #collage #creatures #worldbuilding #fragments #love #desire #soft #odd

[azenta]

"This place is fueled with misery and keeps a dreadening fate to any living being that dares setting foot on it. It doesn't care about who it beholds. It's a machinery far greater than can be comprehended, with a sinister goal to power its gears.

Despite the very nature of this stupid world, I refuse to kneel down. Ô Merciless world... Behold and watch as I burn your flesh with every step I make. No monsters and creeping creatures will stop me from halting your cursed existence. I will rise and strive."

--???

---~~○°•.,☆,.•°○~~---

Note: I do not own nor pretend ownership on any of the above pictures. Only the collage was made by me.

#moodbord #mb #collages #worldbuilding #character #resolve #confession #willpower

[azenta]

“Too shy to say, but I hope you stay.”

— Billie Eilish / come out and play

[azenta]

"Some become crazy from illness, and other simply are crazy. And the latter is more common than people might think".

---~~○°•.,☆,.•°○~~---

Note: I do not own nor pretend ownership on any of the above pictures. Only the collage was made by me.

#moodboard #mb #collage #inspiration #artistic #sinister #worldbuilding #craziness

[azenta]

"It's...It's everywhere."

Maniacs laugh echoing from somber alley. Moving shadows, twisted smiles. Bestial noises, repeated syllables, unintelligible ramblings... The walls of buildings are sprayed with vivid imagery, a mix of abstract incomprehensible geometry, and delirious scenes from a twisted imagination.

Folly runs this city. Not a single soul has been spared. May the powerful humanoid beasts find it and burn it down to cinder...

-- lost text, ???

---~~○°•.,☆,.•°○~~---

Note: I do not own nor pretend ownership on any of the above pictures. Only the collage was made by me.

#moodboard #mb #collages #story #lost stories #worldbuilding #disease #folly #fantasy #witness

[azenta]

"Everyone speaks of the Great Tragedy. They all speak of how this will change the course of history. But all I can think of is how all that remains of you is a memory.

Today, everyone mourns what was, while I mourn the future we will never have. Facing a world like this alone is a far greater concern than it ever was before. Even death can't promise to reunite us. This land is cursed to the core, a neverending nightmare with a twisted plot.

Time is a ticking reminder that every second that passes is a moment further from you, an unstoppable erosion of your memory. Until I don't remember you and become a clueless bystander of a hopeless story."

-- Lost diary, ???, ??01

---~~○°•.,☆,.•°○~~---

Note: I do not own nor pretend ownership on any of the above pictures. Only the collage was made by me.

#moodboard #mb #collages #lost stories #story #worldbuilding #tragedy #memory #grief #for those who knows: #fate series #jeanne d'arc #totk #zelda #link #fanart #only used as illustration purpose rather than 'story' purpose #*forgot: #arturia pendragon #from fate. of course

[azenta]

"The neverending desire to possess you. The every subject of my thoughts. The consuming fantasy of your every move. The only obsession worth entertaining. You are my worst, yet favorite sin."

-???

---~~○°•.,☆,.•°○~~---

Note: I do not own nor pretend ownership on any of the above pictures. Only the collage was made by me.

#moodboard #mb #collages #story #lost stories #story extract #one's mind #obsession #sin #possessiveness #worldbuilding

[azenta]

In the hall of the Great Kingdom, talk godly beasts full of pride. Parading in garments radiating refinery, they exchange deceiving words. Blinded by their vision, they forget the path leading to their cherished land is stained by blood.

---~~○°•.,☆,.•°○~~---

Note: I do not own nor pretend ownership on any of the above pictures. Only the collage was made by me.

#moodboard #mb #collages #artistic #expression #story #myth #worldbuilding #fantasy #divinity #pride #for those who know: #gilgamesh #fate series #not made to illustrate the character but rather the contrary; he illustrates the idea

[azenta]

Mythical being, fleshed out from the Sinister woods. Discrete, curious, they follow and observe. Once they find interest, they set their trap and disappear into the void with their new toy.

-- Text extract, ßæsțs ọ? t?ə ª§ł,『≡ıŋⁿð€¡, ????

---~~○°•.,☆,.•°○~~---

Note: I do not own nor pretend ownership on any of the above pictures. Only the collage was made by me.

#moodboard #mb #collage #myth #worldbuilding #fantasy #artistic #expression #creatures #story #lost stories