Annalyn’s Corner: Sports Anime and Joining the Team

Last month, I started thinking about all the reasons anime characters get into sports—or any type of hobby or commitment, whether a school club, a job, or something as life-changing as religion. I’m the type who’s reluctant to make changes or try something new until I’ve thoroughly researched it and am fairly certain I won’t… Read More Annalyn’s Corner: Sports Anime and Joining the Team

Annalyn’s Corner: Baby Steps and Self-Examination

Maruo Eiichiro (Ei-chan) stands out among sports anime protagonists because of his analytical ability. Usually, analyzers are pushed into secondary roles that challenge or support the main character. In Baby Steps, however, the roles are reversed: the analyzer leads, and, in the second season, the charismatic hero-type is just another opponent. I’ve often said that I… Read More Annalyn’s Corner: Baby Steps and Self-Examination

Annalyn’s Corner: Baby Steps and Believing in… Yourself?

The opening theme song in Baby Steps (both this season and last) includes three English words: “Believe in yourself.” Last year, I didn’t pay close attention to those words. In this season, the phrase “Believe in yourself” becomes more important than it did before. It’s a trite phrase, one we often repeat to each other, but I think… Read More Annalyn’s Corner: Baby Steps and Believing in… Yourself?

Annalyn’s Corner: But I’m not an Anime Hero!

Everyone loves self discipline. The hard work, the daily routine of sweat and blood, the power to resist temptation, the success—all this gives a sense of satisfaction that resounds deep in our hearts. It might require pitching practice until his fingertips are bloody, running when his legs already feel exhausted, or writing at the same time every… Read More Annalyn’s Corner: But I’m not an Anime Hero!