Series & First Appearance
Lucy Yamagami is a character from the anime and manga series "Wagnaria!!" (original title: "Working!!"), created by Karino Takatsu. She made her first appearance in Chapter 1 of the manga, which was serialized in 2005. The anime adaptation began airing in 2010, produced by A-1 Pictures.
Profile at a Glance
Lucy Yamagami is a young adult in her early twenties and serves as a notable supporting character in "Wagnaria!!". She works as a civil servant at the family restaurant, showcasing her diligent and determined character. Lucy’s unique and extensive name is often abbreviated to just "Lucy", but she possesses a disdain for any form of her first name being used.
Personality & Motivations
Lucy is characterized by her strong-willed and sometimes fiery personality. She’s particularly motivated by her experiences with her long and cumbersome name, viewing her civil service career as a form of personal retribution against the bureaucrat who approved her name. Her awkward embarrassment related to her name fosters her fiercely protective nature, particularly concerning her identity. A notable quirk of hers is her intense irritation when people attempt to abbreviate her long name, which often serves as comedic relief in the series.
Abilities / Powers
While Lucy does not possess supernatural powers, her standout abilities include exceptional organizational skills and a keen sense of responsibility. Despite her struggles with self-identity, she demonstrates adaptability in her job, often navigating the chaotic environment of the restaurant with poise. Lucy’s cooking skills develop significantly during the series, showcasing her growth and willingness to learn for the sake of her relationships.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Lucy’s narrative arc explores her emotional growth, particularly in her relationship with Hasebe, a fellow employee at Wagnaria. Initially troubled by her lengthy name, Lucy faces a turning point when she learns the truth behind it — that Hasebe’s father was the one who approved it. This revelation leads her from frustration to understanding, especially after she and Hasebe confess their feelings for each other. A poignant moment occurs when she shows up at Hasebe’s home to care for him when he’s sick, revealing her commitment to overcoming her past issues and embracing a future where she can forge her own identity.
Notable Relationships
- Hasebe: Lucy shares a deep romantic bond with Hasebe, marked by mutual support and encouragement. Their relationship evolves throughout the series and becomes central to Lucy’s character development.
- Hasebe’s Father: His role in approving her name becomes a source of comic tension, representing Lucy’s struggle with self-acceptance.
- Work Colleagues: Lucy’s interactions with other staff members at Wagnaria, including the quirky manager and fellow servers, enrich her personal experiences and add depth to her character.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Lucy’s iconic moments occurs in Episode 8 of the anime adaptation when she discovers that Hasebe intended to tell her who approved her name but kept delaying it. The emotional weight of this scene highlights her vulnerability and the struggles she faces with her identity. A memorable quote from the series encapsulates her feelings: "A name is just a label, but I want mine to mean something." This line resonates with fans, as it underscores the importance of self-identity.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
- Voice Actors: In the Japanese version, Lucy is voiced by Miyuki Sawashiro, known for her versatile performances. In English, she is portrayed by Allyson K. A. DeShawn.
- Popularity: Lucy has garnered a fan club of 261 member favorites, showcasing her appeal among anime enthusiasts.
- Cultural References: Her long name and the comedic elements surrounding it play into Japanese cultural humor regarding bureaucracy and naming conventions, which are often rich with personal significance.
In summary, Lucy Yamagami stands out as a relatable and complex character in "Wagnaria!!". Her journey of self-discovery and emotional growth, punctuated by her humorous struggles with her name and relationship with Hasebe, creates engaging content that resonates well with viewers. Lucy’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of identity and personal connections, making her an unforgettable character in the series.
