9. Hanbun no Tsuki ga Noboru Sora

Is it possible for a person to fall in love with a fictional, two-dimensional anime character? Obviously, it’s a question most “normal” people would have a difficult time wrapping their head around, not to mention answering. But for an anime fan, I suspect the answer would be something akin to, “Is the Pope Catholic?”

That’s not to say all anime fans want a Asahina Mikuru of their own (indeed, some of you sick bastards would prefer, say, a Suzumiya Haruhi), but I think it’s normal for anime fans to fancy characters who exhibit the same personality traits they seek in real life partners. I wouldn’t mind an Izumi Noa of my own, for example.

But, to see a reflection of one’s true desires in a character and to “fall in love” with a character are two entirely different things. Not everyone goes the extra mile. I know I don’t.

Well, not all that often, at least.

Akiba Rika, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I know you’re dying, but that just makes me want to protect and care for you. I know you’re a tsundere, but I dig tsunderes. I know you’re selfish, but I realize that’s just how you show affection. I know you’re pragmatic, but deep down, you’re clearly a romantic. Underneath your tough outer shell, hardened by situation and circumstance, may lie the “real” Akiba Rika, but I love you just as much for the Akiba Rika you show the world as I do for the Akiba Rika you keep to yourself. You’re an incredible person from head to toe.

And, clearly, I should spend more time doing nanpa at the hospital.

For me, Hanbun no Tsuki ga Noboru Sora is all about Akiba Rika - it’s difficult to see anything else - but I submit that the show’s charms are plenty. For many, it’s all about Tanizaki Akiko. For others, it’s all about Ezaki Yuichi. For some, it may be all about Natsume Goro. Or Tsukasa in a Zebra mask. They’re the world that swirls around Rika. They’re the people who care for her… the people who love her in their own, special way.

Everyone loves Akiba Rika. Perhaps you do, too?