Do people want to see others happy, or do they want to see them unhappy? Which is it?
Recent scandals involving famous celebrities seem to truly embody the saying, "Misery loves company."
Research suggests that the human brain actually experiences pleasure when hearing about the misfortunes of others...
This may be an instinctive reaction, but at the same time, as society changes, there is a growing trend toward valuing win-win relationships and synergy effects.
With these thoughts in mind, I read Ryo Asai's novel "Budokan."
It is a vivid story of modern idol culture depicted by Ryo Asai.
This novel delves deeply into the inner lives of the members of the idol group "NEXT YOU," especially the protagonist Aiko, and it resonated strongly with me.
Budokan
By Ryo Asai
"I wanted to put into words all the crosses that the profession of 'idol' has to bear. Strangely, it became a work that describes the current era itself." (Author)
"It goes without saying that idols should be something to enjoy, not something to create. Yet, the author challenged himself to be on the side that creates idols. And in the world of literature, no less... What ambition. What a geek. What power of imagination." (Tsunku♂ / Musician, Entertainment Producer)★
There is no such thing as a 'correct choice' in this world.
The female idol group "NEXT YOU" has been active since its formation with the slogan of a "Budokan live concert."
They increase their popularity and name recognition through various means, such as unique handshake events, sales strategies to enter the sales rankings, and choreography with two patterns per song, getting closer to their goal step by step.
However, as they attract more attention, unwanted types of gazes are also directed at them.
"Do people want to see others happy, or do they want to see them unhappy? Which is it?"
"People who support idols probably want both, don't they?"
Dating bans, ignoring skills, flaming, bonus-based sales, handshake events, graduation... These are the words that surround idols, who emerged and quickly gained social acceptance.
What becomes visible as you delve into them—
A masterpiece novel released by an author who has been watching 'modern idols' for a long time!
By Ryo Asai
From Amazon
What I found particularly impressive was the scene where Aiko struggles with her love for her childhood friend Daichi.
"Both are me. That is the truth." Aiko's inner voice vividly expresses her anguish as she is torn between herself as an idol and herself as a woman.
I felt that this conflict symbolizes the self-identity issues faced by young people today.
Elements unique to the idol industry, such as 'dating bans,' 'handshake events,' and 'bonus-based sales,' are skillfully woven in, highlighting the position of idols in modern society and their relationships with fans.
It is depicted not just as a characteristic of the industry, but as a reflection of the struggles of young people living in the modern age and the values of society, providing deep insight.
The question, "Do people want to see others happy, or do they want to see them unhappy? Which is it?" succinctly expresses the complexity of the environment surrounding idols.
I felt as if this question was also directed at us readers, and it became an opportunity for me to re-examine my own values.
Ultimately, the path Aiko chooses is the result of her own 'thorough' thinking.
No one can judge whether this choice is correct, but the conflict and growth she experiences in the process leave a strong impression.
For me, "Budokan" was a work that depicted a microcosm of modern society through idol culture, and a good book that questions how each person lives through the figures of young people chasing their dreams.
Even if you are not an idol fan, this is a book I definitely want you to read if you want to think deeply about your own values.
I am convinced that this work, which Tsunku♂ also praises in his commentary, is a masterpiece that not only vividly depicts modern idol culture but also leaves a deep lingering impression on the heart.
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