I Have to Be a Monster: Embracing My Inner Beast in a Manga World
Introduction
In a world bursting with vibrant colors, outsized emotions, and characters so exaggerated you’d think they’d burst into flames if they ever entered a room with a calm painting, one question echoes through the pages of every manga: How do I become a monster? No, seriously. I’m not looking to scare kids or munch on human hearts (although, snacks are snacks). I mean, how do I adopt the qualities of a monster while still managing to keep my job, friendships, and a decent pizza order? Well, grab your favorite late-night ramen and buckle up for a whimsical journey into the monster-filled world of manga. Spoiler alert: there will be puns and possibly a transformation sequence.
Chapter 1: Understanding the Monster Mythos
Before we can get into the nitty-gritty of becoming a monster (because let’s be honest, we all want to be the cool kind of monster, right? Not the ugly, being-screamed-at-by-road-rage-goers kind), we have to understand what it means to be a monster in manga. First off, these aren’t your average horror movie and fairy-tale monsters. Our manga friends—let’s call them “mangsters”—have depth, backstories, and killer fashion choices.
The Classic Archetypes
1. The Lovable Beast: Think of characters like Inuyasha or the various iterations of Goshujin-sama from Hinamatsuri. They’re grumpy but somehow adorable, like an oversized cat that occasionally turns into a demon. Their journey usually revolves around love, acceptance, and the ongoing battle against their natural urges (sorry, sushi: it’s just not happening).
2. The Tragic Figure: Look at Tokyo Ghoul’s Kaneki. One moment, he is just trying to enjoy his coffee, and the next, he’s dealing with some heavy internal conflicts. What we learn from him is that monsters have feelings too—even if those feelings mostly involve existential dread.
3. The Quirky Guy with Unreal Powers: Think Shrek if he was also a ninja. These characters take the “monster” trope and mixed it with some kickboxing lessons and ninja stars. They break societal norms by using their powers for good, like a superhero who also loves nature documentaries.
Remember, every good mangster has a backstory that can either make you weep or be inspired to drink too much green tea. So why not embrace it?
Chapter 2: Step 1 – Find Your Inner Beast
First things first: we need to figure out what kind of monster we want to be. Are we dodging Naruto’s infamous Shadow Clone Jutsu in the hopes of avoiding homework, or are we summoning Elder Gods to conquer the lunchroom? Reflecting on your inner monster isn’t as complicated as it seems. Here’s a fun (and slightly cringeworthy) checklist to help you decide:
Are you crafty? You might be a crafty monster. Hello, Demon Slayer’s Nezuko, with her adept skills when it comes to DIY crafts.
Socially Awkward but Adorable? You might lean towards the lovably goofy characters, like the cast of My Hero Academia. Who doesn’t want to be a character whose main power is sharing snacks?
Need Drama? Aim for tragic figures, like the aforementioned Kaneki. Just remember, your pet can only take so much angst before it decides to wander off to find a more cheerful owner.
Chapter 3: Step 2 – Power Up Your Skills
Once you determine your inner beast, it’s time to improve yourself. Being a monster isn’t just about growing horns or sprouting tentacles. Oh no, it goes far deeper:
Practice Your Monster Clichés: This step is crucial. Immerse yourself in all those cliché monster scenes that are oddly satisfying. Practice your “growl,” perfect the signature “villain laugh,” and definitely nail the “dramatic reveal” in front of your bathroom mirror. Yes, you might scare your dog, but at least you’ll know how to make an entrance.
Train Your Body and Mind: Ever seen a manga character do those insane backflips while mastering the art of battle? Well, today’s the day! Go ahead and enroll in a self-defense class or enroll in a martial arts dojo. Who knows? The next time someone insults your taste in pizza, you might just throw a flawless spin kick!
Nurture Your Inner Drama Queen: Monsters often have emotional depth that hits harder than a well-aimed shuriken. Practice expressive poses in front of your mirror and work on your voice inflections. Dive deep into your emotions, and if tearful monologues come out, you’ll know you’re getting there!
Chapter 4: The Transformation Sequence
Don’t you dare skip this chapter! It’s the highlight reel of becoming a mangster. Transformation sequences are the pinnacle of character development. Here’s how to create your own Epic Transformation Sequence, even if it means transforming from your flipping Pizza Hut pajamas into fabulous streetwear:
Set the Mood: Lighting is key! Whether it’s the harsh glow of your desk lamp or the flickering of the TV as you binge-watch monster titles, find your vibe.
Dress to Impress: This is where you showcase that beautiful transformation. Unlike in the manga, your wardrobe matters! Throw on that oversized hoodie or a funky bomber jacket. Bonus points if you have a cape—caped heroes are never out of style.
Cue the Dramatic Music: In a manga, the moment your character transforms, they’re usually accompanied by a symphony of epic sounds. Whether it’s the electric guitar of an anime opening or just your phone’s ringtone, make your friends think you’re about to ascend to new levels of social awkwardness.
Flex Those Muscles (or Snacks): As you finish your transformation, strike a pose! But be ready for unexpected consequences. Frightened pets, confused family members, and occasional surprise pizza deliveries (the pizza gods are always watching) may occur.
Chapter 5: Maintaining the Monster Within
Now that you’ve transformed into a certified mangster, it’s crucial to maintain your monstrous persona. Remember, with great power comes incredible snack cravings!
Commit to a Diet of Dreams: What do monsters eat? Depending on your persona, it could range from traditional ramen to ghoulish delicacies like human hearts… oops, just stick to the ramen. Indulge in a variety of flavors—spicy, mild, even that peculiar seafood kind you dare not to order in public.
Strike a Pose, Eat a Snack: Masters of stealth and coolness often need to take breaks. So don’t hesitate to take a snack break while striking dramatic poses in front of a mirror. Just be cautious—potato chips and capes are a deadly combination.
Chapter 6: Navigating Relationships as a Monster
Being a monster has its perks, but it also comes with challenges, especially when it comes to forming friendships. Whether you’re an adorable grump or a tragic villain, interpersonal relationships are essential (and utterly chaotic):
Find Your Fellow Mangsters: Surround yourself with like-minded individuals. Have a movie night and insist that everyone dresses up as their favorite monster! Bonus points for unintentional costume fails—after all, who doesn’t want to see a human-shaped blob?
Monstrous Dating Tips: Turning the dating scene on its head as a monster is both thrilling and terrifying. Channel your inner beast with proper charm. Instead of saying, “You have beautiful eyes,” try “Your heart will serve as my new snack!” If they don’t run, you’ve successfully found your possible soulmate!
Accept Your Quirks: Dealing with your inner monster may be challenging at times. Get comfy with both your flaws and your advantages. Maybe your monstrous tendency is snorting when you laugh. Own it! It will be the signature sound of laughter that attracts all sorts of quirky friendships.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve unlocked the secrets of embracing your inner monster in a manga world. You’ve faced your doubts, struck a dramatic pose, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll find a way to become more than just a regular human. Remember, whether your spirit guide is a cuddly bear, a hooded figure wielding a scythe, or an anthropomorphic slice of pizza, being a monster is about unleashing your unique creativity while having a blast along the way.
So go out, be fabulous, and don’t forget your snacks—because even the fiercest monsters sometimes just need a slice of pizza to fuel their dreams!
And who knows? You might just inspire a new generation of mangsters with your quirks, dream transformations, and maybe even that time you tried to help an old lady cross the street but ended up getting distracted by a cat. Happy monster-ing!