Grave of the Fireflies: Was Seita the REAL Problem?
Okay, so I just finished rewatching Grave of the Fireflies for maybe the fifth time, and I've got this theory brewing that I need to get off my chest. We all know it's devastating, a punch to the gut. But I'm starting to think Seita's pride and arguably, his stubbornness, contributed significantly to their tragic end, perhaps more than we're comfortable admitting. Hear me out. Specifically, remember the scene where they're staying with the aunt? She's clearly resentful, rationing the food, and making snide remarks. It's awful, granted. But Seita's reaction? Instead of trying to contribute, trying to find work or even just swallowing his pride a little to maintain some semblance of stability for Setsuko, he just... leaves. He prioritizes his sense of self-worth over his sister's basic needs. And yes, the aunt is a terrible person, but isn't the responsible adult supposed to navigate those difficult situations for the sake of the child? Leaving to live in an abandoned bomb shelter? That's not a solution, it's a slow-motion suicide. Now, I'm not saying the war isn't the ultimate culprit; obviously, it is. But I think the film subtly hints that Seita's character flaws – a refusal to adapt, a misplaced sense of honor – are a critical factor. He had options, however limited, and he consistently chose the path of least resistance and the most dignified death, if that makes sense. Maybe this is a hot take, and I'm probably going to get roasted for it, but I've never really seen this film as purely a condemnation of war. There's something deeper about responsibility and the dangers of idealism. Finally, the jars of fireflies...they are such a poignant little detail, and there's even an argument to be made about the film's titular connection to it's own theme. I'm still wrestling with the meaning of that, what they represent in the grand scheme of things. I don't know, I just feel like if Seita had swallowed his pride, humbled himself, maybe, just maybe, things could have turned out differently. Happy to hear other's thoughts on this. Am I way off base?
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