Episode 13 Final –
You know, it’s a bit ironic how the final episode to the Natsume Yuujinchou anime is the only one that got me to shed some tears. Natsume Yuujinchou has always been a strikingly touching anime, always touching upon some sensitive topics in a quiet, subtle manner. Quite frankly, it’s been a fantastic series that at times has been powerfully emotional in tone. But this week’s episode focused in on Natsume’s sense of sadness and nostalgia with regards to his parents was absolutely heartbreaking. Brains base and the original storywriter really outdid themselves in this final arc; Midorikawa Yuki for the emotional story, and Brains Base for bringing the emotions in the story to life.
It’s amazing how consistent Natsume Yuujinchou as a series has been, with a splendid range of emotions that are explored via various stories. Some stories are subtle, others blatantly emphasize themes such as friendship, and others are quiet episodes that are simply relaxing to watch. Amidst all that, the themes to this series have constantly evolved, and has matured greatly as seen in this final Natsume Yuujinchou arc.
This episode continued exploring Natsume’s past, something that hasn’t been explored in depth up until this point. It’s touching to see him struggle with his nostalgia about his parents, his tough childhood, and the current insecurities he has of his past. He faces them straight in the face this episode, and grows to accept everything as a part of himself, even the pain and discrimination he suffered in his childhood. If you actually think about it, Natsume Yuujinchou has been all about showing Natsume’s gradual maturation as an individual, so it’s only fitting that this final episode is all about showing just how much he has come to accept his role as a guy involved with humans and youkai.
Based on what I’ve heard, this is actually the final anime adaptation of Natsume Yuujinchou. Now I don’t know if this is completely true (and the manga still has much more to it), but this episode wrapped up in a fantastic manner that would be fitting for the finale to a series. It showcased just how much our titular character, Natsume, has grown, as well as explored upon his past, and showed his new friendships (especially with Nyanko-sensei). I’d say that Natsume Yuujinchou has been fantastic, and I do hope that there will be more adaptations in the future.
Overall Enjoyment: 4.4/5
Screenshots are later in the post.