One of the best things about Naruto Shippuuden is the time scope of its narrative. While having flashbacks within flashbacks is often confusing to the point of annoyance, I do have to say I am loving the extended background stories (small arcs) that are cropping up during the war.
Warning! Spoilers ahead!
As a Kakashi fangirl, I have to admit that I have been literally rocking back and forth in my seat ever since Gai opened the Eighth Gate. I know how this is gonna turn out – but I can’t help but feel moved by the narrative. Gai and his (kinda loser) dad, Maito Dai, lead us through a narrative that pokes at the gaps in ideas surrounding effort as epitomized by Gai and Lee. Does effort actually get you anywhere? How does that compare to genius abilities and destiny?
These kinds of harsh questions are tempting. I’d like to unravel the ideas further, but I am content at the moment simply to squee over the occasional glimpses into Kakashi’s early life as well. (The other Obito memory flashbacks were amazing too!)
Before long, I was wondering what would it be like for Hatake Sakumo (the representation of success and genius) to meet Maito Dai (the representation of failure and effort). Particularly since Maito Dai ultimately dies to protect his son, and Hatake Sakumo dies at his own hand because he couldn’t handle the social pressure of failure.
AND THEN IT HAPPENED!
What is this gloriousness, Episode 421?!?!
Two single fathers and their respective offspring… It’s just too cute!
I want to talk more about this episode in detail (maybe I will later), but I’m content for now to just rewind and enjoy the goodness all over again
And maybe again one more time…
Dappled-Things 