Tags
Amor Fati, delusion, Destiny, Erich Fromm, Fate, Himari, Kanba, Love, Masako Natsume, Mawaru Penguindrum, Nietzsche, penguin, Ringo, Ringo Oginome, Shouma, Tabuki, Takakura, yuri
Have you ever remembered those days when witches were “so not”, but then now they’re “so hot”? Pretty much this is the same trend that I’m noticing on Mawaru Penguindrum. Who would’ve thought that Ringo and Masako would redefine the art of stalking? Indeed, stalkers used to be “pervy-ugly-dirty-guys” but now they evolved into “sexy-hot-kicking-gals.” Because of them, instead of being excited for the next “romantic” love scene, viewers now craved for the subsequent “delusional” love vista.
Personally, I believe that love is a wonderful thing because it’s a feeling that makes us human, and for me it’s inspiring and not destructing. However in most stories, it’s usually being commodified as something problematic and the core conflict of the story. So what exactly love is? Of course, there are so many ways to interpret this, but since I’m all caught up with Mawaru Penguindrum’s love-stalking setting, I’d like to explore the chaotic-harmonic side of it.
According to Erich Fromm, love is not a spontaneous feeling that you fall into but an art that requires knowledge, effort, discipline, concentration, patience, faith and the overcoming of narcissism. Hence, it’s not something natural. Sometimes it can overwhelm a person and apparently can turn this into an obsession. As two of today’s hottest 2D stalkers—Ringo and Masako—exemplified, love triggers intense euphoria and compels them to do anything even this would lead to their self-destruction.
So, if love can lead us to self destruction, then does it mean that love is evil? No. Logically, we value what we love and what we hate we discern as evil. Yet, paradoxically, we can say that love causes evil because what we hate resulted from the absence of what we value—simply, we can see evil as misdirected love or truth in reverse. In addition, the paradox of evil is that it is death, chaos, defiance, fear, and dreadfulness but yet its very existence is what brings forth love that would otherwise never be generated—cycled? destined?
Having said all of these, Nietzsche’s concept of love for self-destruction doesn’t really make one extinct, but rather reactivates oneself. That’s why come to think about it, Ringo’s obsession towards Tabuki and her apprehension in fulfilling Momoka’s diary actually brought her to Shouma. So, is this fated love or it’s because of her Amor fati?
And, speaking of misdirected love, I noticed that Yuri, plays such an essential role impeding whatever crazy and disastrous decision Ringo’s going to do. As for Masako, again love is the connection that she has with Kanba. Just like Ringo, she’s stalking not just for her delusions, but also, she has her own other reasons. Moreover, although she caused harm to Kanba’s ex-girlfriends I can’t fully conclude that she’s evil because she’s protecting her brother, making her another “victim” of fate.
Lemmas and Submodalities 
Honestly speaking, while I can see the Ringo/Shoma couple to happen, I can’t really think a Kanba/Masako couple would work.
Masako stalking makes Ringo appear like a novice of some sort…:P
Kanba/Masako couple, hmm why not. Kanba is a cutie and Masako is a hottie, both are also risk-takers. So I guess, they would be a powerhouse couple.
And yes, that’s the same reaction I had. Ringo all of a sudden turned novice as a stalker, how could she ever beat Masako’s multiple huge screens and surveillance cameras.
Yuri, to me, is one of the most mysterious characters in this series. After all, it surprises me that Yuri barely flinched when she encountered Ringo and Tabuki pounding down the door. It makes me think that she knows more than she lets on, and do we really know if she actually does love Tabuki? Just a thought to keep in mind.
Also, I do think that the most appropriate phrase for this is “All’s fair in love and war.” ^_^
She really makes me wonder too. I guess when she didn’t do anything when she saw Tabuki craving for Ringo, that’s a sign of how calm her character is. I used to suspect her, but part of me says she’s a villain although I suspecting her of snatching the other half of the diary.
Also, I do think that the most appropriate phrase for this is “All’s fair in love and war.” ^_^
Thanks for the suggestion, I’ll keep this in mind and used it when I have the chance to. ^^
I’ll say this right now: Penguindrum is one of the funniest anime of 2011 next to Nichijou. I have a very strange sense of humor. Both are funnier than even Baka Test 2. There, I said it.
Moving right along, love can drive a person to do crazy things. Ringo and Masako are examples of just how far someone using love as a mission objective can go. I also agree on the fact that every single person on planet Earth has a different understanding of what love really means. It’s amazing how psychologically deep this show is.
Yeah, sometimes this anime exhaust me with its red herring and symbolisms, but at the same time I like it because it really engages me to watch, e.g. numbers, images, and music. Aside from that, the characters never fail to disappoint so far. Just when I thought there’s nothing else for them to offer, on the next episode they’re going to throw in some psychotic freak show (but with depth).
Penguindrum left me a very deep impression, it’s a great story and explores the curious idea of fate. The characters are amazing, especially in the sense that they’re practically unpredictable. When I first say Ringo, there was no way that I’d come up with the idea that she was a stalker!
Until I see the ending, it’ll stay on my pending list for favourite animes ever :D
Ringo is really a shocker, isn’t she? Even her daring stunts and psychotic activities are still mind blowing me. Indeed, fate as a plot ingredient generates so much thinking and I’m really enjoying it. This is also certainly one of my favourite anime on its genre.
Since Shouma exclaimed that Ringo’s heart was “pitch black” in the stairwell of Tabuki’s apartment, I’ve really began digging Ringo’s character development. She’s seemed to become so much more human, rather than …creepy.
Agreed, and to add just like what feal87 mentioned when Masako appeared, Ringo suddenly became novice as a stalker. The recent episode shows different side of her when she’s with Shouma.
Haha, Ringo and Masako definitely repaint the stalker image for me. I was like most people, when anyone mentioned the word “stalker”, I only picture some creepy looking guy. That has changed now.
There are many definitions and interpretations when it comes to love, but at the end of the day love is a complicated thing. It’s loving yet can be destructive. It’s sweet, it’s bitter. It’s light for one person, but it’s dark for another.
While both Ringo and Masako are both creepy being stalkers, they’re also fun to watch. I mean, their stalking habits are the comic relief of the show, which otherwise is dark with layers of symbolism and never ending puzzles.
I totally agree with you how love is a complicated thing. I think that’s why it’s an epic way to obscure any plot. Also, I’m definitely enjoying Ringo and Masako’s stalking freak show. But like what you said it’s more than just a comical act, underneath there’s actually meaning and symbolism planted.
Looks like Ikuhahara’s favoritism of strong and capable female characters has shown itself. This blogpost has made me notice that.
I read some stuff about Ikuhara, but as a director I’m not really familiar with him (I just started watching Utena). But yea so far, I’m really enjoying his works.
Btw, thanks for dropping by. I noticed that it’s your first time commenting on my post. ^^
I’m really curious about Tabuki. I think he hides something, judging by the short segment of the opening in which we see him glancing back towards us.
Tabuki’s glances on the OP also made me think. Aside from that, he’s heavily associated with birds. Since nothing in Ikuhara’s work is just random. I’m thinking that he’s going to play a major role. Not to mention, penguin is a form of a bird, and most importantly he’s the former lover of Momoka.
Watching this show I have no sense of direction anymore in a good way, lol. Yuri does hold an certain air about her, but I feel like that she may holding herself back for good reason. I would hate to see her true nature unleashed. She also does not seem to clingy and more calculating than I Imagined Masako to be. Although, just being a guy, would be awesome to have Ringo and Masako as a stalker, lol
btw, just noticed you change the title name for the blog too ^^
Same here, this is the only show this season that wouldn’t make me relax as I watch it, but in a good way too. Yuri seems really suspicious, but part of me is telling me that she’s not evil because she’s always there to prevent Ringo’s “suicidal” acts… I really don’t know, I’m just speculating hehe.
“Although, just being a guy, would be awesome to have Ringo and Masako as a stalker, lol.”
I think even for girls, it’d be flattering to have stalkers like them–although, I’m actually scared of stalkers in real life.
And oh yes, I just changed my blog name. I finally thought of a good fit for this site. ^^
Ringo’s still Number One Stalker to me, even with her endearing character development. Still, as I think I mentioned, she has potential to fly straight and have a legitimate romance. After all, she does view love as something important, albeit in a naive light. Masako views it too much as a game for me to have much faith in her. Granted, she’s not as two-faced as Yuri, but something’s still not right there and I doubt it ever will be right.
Her naivety what makes Ringo lovable. Plus, she’s doing all these love madness because for a “greater” cause–having her family be together. As for Masako, I view her as a trickster character. She’s doing all these mischievous acts but I’m thinking she’s the not real villain. As for Yuri, I don’t think she’s evil nor two faced, but I also have that feeling. However, I think the director is only making us to think that way. Although, I’m expecting a surprised twist from Yuri.
This show made me reflect on how I imagine stalkers. I mean, not that it would be alright with me if someone like Masako or Ringo stalked me, but the way they do it is just awesome, lol. I think that the “love-turned-destructive obsession” fits Masako more, since she thinks that love is a game of equals and such. Ringo would want the inverse for Tabuki, like “obsession turned love” but that love had now been directed to Shouma (and I totally ship this, just saying ^^)
I guess after this series, will be expecting a lot of anime that have hot stalkers.
As for me, Ringo is a trusting character. And as for Masako, personally, I don’t think there’s anything wrong if she’s thinking love as a game or something that is just caused by a chemical reaction in the brain. What I find questionable is her deep obsession with Kanba which roots back since they’re young, plus how she conceived Kanba as her prey–that’s super creepy.
Btw, I’m also rooting for Ringo and Shouma, haha. ^^
Can’t help but think of this scene whenever someone mentions a stalker…
I’m a bit surprised to see that many has changed their view on what kind of a person a stalker is. It can be anyone, really ^^’
Haha, this is a funny video. Indeed, stalkers can be anyone, but it’s just that usually creepy is being equated to disgusting.
Btw, thanks for sharing the link. It’s makes me want to watch Zetsubou sensei.
SZS is a great show, watch it if you haven’t! Great parodies and criticism to the current society.
Oic… perhaps one of these days, I might start watching SZS. thank you! ^^
This post reminds me of those arguments people had when love-after-rape stories were popular. Can an act of evil lead to love? It sounds like the difference here is the question of can love really lead to acts of evil? I guess love and evil work in mysterious ways.
I think it’s possible for an evil act to lead into love and vice versa, since I believe that everyone is naturally good and evil is just a caused of lack of goodness. But I agreed though, love and evil are just mysterious.
Pingback: Notes of Mawaru Penguindrum Episode 11 | Organization Anti Social Geniuses
Sorry, but I can’t really say it’s hot… stalking in any way is a deed routed in an abnormal obsession… I never really liked Ringo and I only took off my hat to her when she took off the Princess’ hat- a really active girl. Masako’s stalking is even creepier, perhaps not so annoying as Ringo’s because it’s executed with elegance. Masako is another femme fatale, a mirror of the main protagonist in the Basic Instict. And that’s dangerous. It’s good to see and understand that evil and abnormal can have a pretty face, yet the ‘so hot’ effect is worrisome, for me at least – the same way rape in yaoi is accepted and anticipated. Am I too extreme?
As of your interpretation, I’m afraid that I didn’t quite comprehend it, so if could you kindly rephrase it?
P.S.: Happy new ‘nameday’ for your blog. I can’t hide my fondness for the catchy and friendlier Snippetee, but this one is good as well. If I were to choose a picture suitable for this name, it would be one of a nebula – the beauty of mathematics in nature- or those black paintings with ‘glowing’ colourful sprinkles and designs :D
I really hear you when you said that stalking isn’t cute. Honestly IRL, I have trauma with stalkers. But that being said, I commend how Penguindrum managed to pull a creative stunt in regards to having this scary and emotionally abnormal act. I can’t really choose as of now who’s a ‘better’ stalker between Ringo and Masako. However, I like how you described Masako’s stalking habits as femme fatale.
I guess after this, overtime the meaning of stalking in mass media will be redefine just like what happened with ‘witches’.. Who knows maybe next time stalking is all about for greater good or like what you said it can be totally worrisome. Btw, I don’t think you’re too extreme, because your concern is definitely logical. Like what I argued on this article, love (goodness) always has a counterpart which is evil. But what I noticed with anime, it’s not afraid to explore and exploit horizons whether it’s taboo, completely evil or immoral. It’s really all about how viewers would interpret this, and how this message would be relayed to the young viewers.
PS I like SnippetTee as well, but I’d like to keep that as my name. Thanks for suggesting nebula, it’s a nice word as well. Perhaps next time I can make use of it. ^^
I think you bring up so much truth from that very first paragraph. This anime brought stalking into a new light. I think we mostly respond well to the stalking in this series (not the right way to put it, I know) because their female. Sure they’re still creepy, but if it was Tabuki (crazy out of place example) stalking Ringo instead that would have felt creepy in a bad way rather than an amusing one.
Though besides gender, the series softens us to the idea because they also take the time to make us empathize with the characters (mostly Rino) and to why they behave this way. I think without these two elements Penguindrum would not have been as successful because it would just seem like a creppy-pervy anime.
Good point about the idea behind the gender of the stalker and how viewers perceive it. That’s a fascinating idea behind gender, not everyone can pull an act and make it creative. In Mawaru Penguindrum’s case, the girls of this show are really the ones making the “statement.” From what I read, Ikuhara is really fond of strong-willed female characters…
Episode 14: My jaw dropped to the floor after this episode. To me this is the biggest twist of the year. I so didn’t see this coming since her debut until this episode aired. WHOA! Truly an impact making episode that SHOULDN’T BE SKIPPED!
OMG, when I saw the beginning, I was like “oh my!” I didn’t really react that much and only got excited for a bit. But then, when I saw the ending I was like “OMFG!” and got overly excited and stunned. I know I’m shallow, but how come I didn’t see this coming. I never thought of Yuri’s name is that significant and contains too literal of a meaning.
Shoma pulling a Sasuke Uchiha. Seriously dood, take some chill pills. No matter how much you want to take the blame, it wasn’t your fault and Ringo understands that…dummy. However, if it weren’t for his stupidity this post wouldn’t have existed…wait…yes it would have thanks to the 1st five minutes of the episode. Poor what’s her name.
Speaking of Ringo…I’m just as happy as you are that HOPEFULLY she’ll experience something magical before inevitably turning back to Shoma. However, the poor cutie just can’t catch a break. All she wants is to bring happiness to those around her and just when she’s finally seeking happiness for herself, her love interest turns out to be a douche, who will inevitably win for reasons I fail to comprehend. No wait, it’s because the plot said so.
That reminds me, it would have been awesome if Yuri from Angel Beats had yuri vibes. Alas it was not meant to be. Ah well, Yuri’s yuri is certainly enough yuri for our yuri craving.
Episode 15 revealed many things.
-Thank GOODNESS the nation’s fears were all wrong. TAKE THAT ALEX!
-Shoma is and always will be an inferior copy to the great and hilariously awesome Kujo. You are just born to suck.
-For those who have seen Shigofumi (All 3 of you), you’ll be threading on familiar grounds.
-Esmeralda kicks ass even in previews of the next episode. You truly are the best character on the show.
-Aki Toyosaki ROCKS! not as much as the lovely Aoi Yuuki but close enough.
I also don’t understand why Shoma always choke whenever he’s needed the most. I didn’t like that he’s just actually next door to Yuri and Ringo, I felt that ludicrous. In addition, I really felt bad with Yuri’s childhood.
As for Esmeralda, for seem reason I find her as a very creepy and manipulative penguin. And yes, I like how there’s a new OP now.
Week after week Penguindrum continues pulling one shocker after another. FINALLY Shoma;s purpose will be revealed. No longer will he be useless.
Yeah, what a twist. Well, between the two brothers I like Shoma more for some reason. Kanba has so much angst.
Pingback: Afterthoughts on Mawaru Penguindrum: Apples and Its Symbolisms « Lemmas and Submodalities
Pingback: Notes of Mawaru Penguindrum Episode 11 | Organization Anti-Social Geniuses