Genshiken manga-ka on perception of otaku in Japan

Publishers Weekly have posted an enlightening discussion with manga-ka Kio Shimoku, author of the “geek-culture” manga “Genshiken: The Society for the Study of Modern Visual Culture”. The interview probes Shimoku’s feelings on the meaning and perception of otaku in Japan, ultimately revealing the ambitions and inspiration behind his popular story of anime fans who just hang out together, develop into adults and most of all, share a good time.

“For me, otaku culture, as I think you can re-phrase “modern visual culture,” is a purely personal pleasure. This isn’t something that you can really share with anyone; the experience belongs only to yourself. Unlike sex, you don’t even need to think of the other person or communicate, and I actually feel that one should be ashamed to actively push a set of titles that in a way offer the viewer a facile kind of gratification.” [Read the full interview]