Wandering Life 1

Yoshihiro Tatsumi spent eleven years of his life working on this monumental autobiographical work, which consists of two volumes totaling 850 pages. The book begins with his childhood experiences in Osaka and follows through his adolescence and youth in a Japan overwhelmed by the shadows of World War II. Through his alter ego, Hiroshi, Tatsumi portrays the deteriorating marriage of his parents, his jealous brother's fragile health, and the numerous obstacles he faces in the competitive world of the manga market in mid-20th century Japan.

"Tatsumi is the father of 'gekiga,' a type of comic that is different, more refined and literary than most manga of his time, and can be considered the equivalent of today's graphic novel." 'A Drifting Life' is a personal and passionate book, as well as an ambitious work about a country in transition. The two volumes offer a first-person account of the evolution of manga from being considered a "childish thing" to becoming a vital part of Japanese cultural landscape.

This autobiography provides a glimpse into Tatsumi's life and the challenges he faced in pursuing his passion in the competitive and evolving world of manga. The storytelling is engaging and insightful, offering a unique perspective on the manga industry in Japan. Tatsumi's dedication to his craft and his contributions to the medium are evident throughout the two volumes.

Overall, 'A Drifting Life' is a captivating and enriching read that sheds light on the evolution of manga and the life of one of its pioneers. Tatsumi's storytelling is evocative and poignant, capturing the essence of a changing Japan and the struggles of a young artist finding his place in the world. This work stands as a testament to Tatsumi's legacy and his influence on the world of manga.

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