“Undefined Relationship” - The subtle distance between two men depicted in 【Kemutai Hanashi】

A reunion with an old acquaintance and the start of a cohabitation life between two men. Today, we are introducing a manga called “Kemutai Hanashi” that illustrates such everyday life.

The story revolves around the cohabitation of two men, Takeda, a language teacher, and Arita, a florist. The two, who were high school classmates, had no interaction until they met again as adults. However, their lives intertwine once again when they try to help a weak cat they encounter on a rainy day.

Consequently, Takeda proposes cohabitation to Arita. This is not because of romantic feelings but because of the comfort of being together.

The captivating aspect of this work is the portrayal of their undefinable relationship. It's not romantic, not friendship, and not family. However, feelings like “we can be apart, but it's boring without each other” are sprouting between them. They are constantly exploring what it is and how they should define their relationship.

Moreover, the detailed drawings and color use within the work are also impressive. The comfortable distance of the two who have an “undefined relationship” is carefully depicted, strongly conveying a pleasant atmosphere to the reader.

We often try to simply define human relationships with words like “friends”, “lovers”, “family”. However, “Kemutai Hanashi” questions such frameworks. By depicting a relationship that is deeper than friendship but obviously off from romance, this work skillfully challenges the public's view and offers readers a fresh perspective.

And so, this time we have introduced “Kemutai Hanashi”. If you are interested in the undefined relationship of these two, please pick it up and read it once. We will continue to introduce wonderful works next time. Look forward to it.