Series & First Appearance
Naruko Anjou is a character from the anime and manga series Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day (Ano Hi Mita Hana no Namae wo Bokutachi wa Mada Shiranai). The series premiered in 2011, created by Mari Okada and animated by A-1 Pictures. She first appears in episode 1, titled "The Day of the Explosion."
Profile at a Glance
Naruko Anjou, often known as Anaru, is a teenage girl (age 16 during the series) who plays a pivotal role as one of the main protagonists. She is part of a group of childhood friends haunted by the ghost of Menma, a member of their childhood circle. Naruko’s character is marked by her insecurities, particularly about her appearance and her complicated feelings towards Jinta Yadomi, her childhood friend and budding love interest.
Personality & Motivations
Naruko is characterized by her vulnerability and deep-seated insecurities stemming from her childhood. She struggles with feelings of jealousy, particularly toward Menma, whom she believes embodies all the qualities she wishes for, including physical appearance and Jinta’s attention. Despite her tough exterior, she has a gentle side and exhibits a longing for acceptance and love. Naruko is driven by a desire to resolve her feelings for Jinta, while also dealing with the guilt and trauma tied to Menma’s death. Her notable quirks include her glasses and curly hair, which she wishes were more like Menma’s flowing locks. A memorable theme in her character arc is her internal conflict regarding loyalty to her past relationships and her own desires.
Abilities / Powers
While Naruko does not possess any supernatural abilities per se, she demonstrates emotional resilience and strength throughout the series. Her main abilities lie in her interpersonal relationships and her capacity for empathy, which become evident as she navigates the complexities of grief and guilt among her friends. The limitations to her character arc stem from her internal struggles, particularly her jealousy and feelings of inadequacy, which often hinder her emotional growth.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Naruko experiences significant character development throughout Anohana. Key moments include her admission of jealousy toward Menma and her conflicted feelings for Jinta. One pivotal episode is when she reveals her true feelings during an emotional confrontation, highlighting her vulnerability and need for closure regarding Menma’s death. Another crucial moment occurs when she faces societal ostracism due to a scandal involving an older boy, pushing her further into isolation. This event, coupled with Jinta’s continual focus on Menma, leads her to reevaluate her relationships. Ultimately, she matures by confronting her feelings and acknowledging her love for Jinta, signifying a turning point in her character arc.
Notable Relationships
- Jinta Yadomi: The central figure in Naruko’s emotional narrative. Her unrequited love for him and the jealousy she feels toward Menma create a complex dynamic that drives much of her character development.
- Menma (Meiko Honma): Naruko’s childhood friend and the ghostly girl whose death haunts the group. Naruko’s feelings of jealousy toward Menma complicate her grief and motivations throughout the series.
- Matsuyuki: Another key character who expresses his feelings for Naruko, further complicating her emotions as she struggles with her loyalty to Jinta and her unresolved feelings for Menma.
- Chiriko Tsurumi: A supportive friend who represents a voice of reason, helping Naruko come to terms with her feelings.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Naruko’s most memorable scenes occurs in episode 8, where she confronts her emotional barriers and admits to Jinta that she still harbors feelings for him, making a heartfelt plea for him to acknowledge their past connection. Another pivotal moment is in episode 11, titled "The Flower We Saw That Day," where she finally confronts both her feelings of guilt and her insecurities, symbolizing her growth and acceptance. Her quote, "I love you, Jinta. You’re irreplaceable," solidifies her emotional journey and the overall theme of love and loss within the series.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Naruko Anjou was voiced by Haruka Tomatsu in the Japanese version, with Madison Ginner providing her voice in the English dub. The character has garnered attention in popularity polls for her relatable struggles and emotional depth, often ranking in the top ten of characters from the series. Additionally, her design reflects the anime’s focus on childhood nostalgia and emotional turmoil, resonating with many fans who experienced similar struggles in their own lives. Naruko’s character and story also touch on themes of bullying and societal pressure, making her a relatable figure for many viewers.
Her growth throughout Anohana illustrates the importance of self-acceptance and emotional honesty, making her an enduring character in the realm of anime discussions.
