Kanji Tatsumi Analysis; The Emperor's New Clothes || Persona 4 Golden Analysis

[@floatingpasta8099]

I'm glad that the guy who questioned his sexuality for the person he has a crush on and has feminine hobies is the most manliest man of the group. He deserves Naoto imo

[@HidinginPrivate]

Poor Kanji, if only Naoto liked him back...

[@floatingpasta8099]

@@HidinginPrivate I'd like to think that the necklace she wore after the timeskip ending is evidence of her liking him back

[@ariannadravis3934]

@@floatingpasta8099 I can agree with that. Naoto had *a* obsession with yu, but that dissapeared over time and all that.

[@jackdaw6978]

But Chad Narukami gets all the hoes

[@ChaldeaWarmaster]

@@HidinginPrivate It's not like Naoto doesn't like Kanji or anything. It's just that he doesn't take initiative and hang out with her often to find an opportunity to bond beyond the case.

[@shadowfire1500]

Kanji is straight up the “this is what peak masculinity looks like” bit, and we love him because of it.

[@HidinginPrivate]

He is peak

[@ironwraith852]

You saying Kanji isn't peak masculinity?

[@shadowfire1500]

@@ironwraith852 I'm saying he absolutely IS peak masculinty.

[@ironwraith852]

@@shadowfire1500 ah, I see. Dunno how I misinterpreted that.

[@VioletKatana64]

​@Iron Wraith you saying he likes dudes?

[@Fusseliko]

When I first played this game, I was surprised at how directly this 2008 videogame dealt with toxic masculinity, something that's only somewhat recently entered mainstream(ish) discourse in a productive way. It was truly ahead of it's time, and it's probably still the best piece of media I've seen deal with it. By the end of his arc, Kanji doesn't become less masculine, he becomes more masculine, and he does so by recognizing and rejecting the toxic expectations that society forced upon him and being truly himself. Really great stuff.

[@HidinginPrivate]

Agreed. It's great stuff

[@louzerk2662]

His was such a great story, I'm willing to say it's one of the best social links I have seen in the series. So much work, so many themes, well laid and written into one character, to accept themselves despite differences from the norm. Non-standard interests, sexuality, looks, and personality. Both the Investigation Team and the fans of the series love him!

[@DKzCoolD2]

Every time without fail there are two spots in Kanji's link that make me cry. 1: When the kid calls him cool and wants more dolls. 2: When the kid and his mom defend him from the police. Being accepted by the world around you is something everyone wants and most struggle with it. This doesn't just pertain to sexuality, gender or any one thing for that matter. I am sure many have been in a situation where you wanted your parents to not scold you for a mediocre or bad grade, or been nervous to do something, like perform on a stage or the like, for fear that the audience or your peers will chastise you for.. not being good enough. Not being good enough is something I struggled with as I was never the best at anything, though noticeably good at certain things. Things my peers weren't particularly interested in, so I rarely felt acknowledged. Thus seeing people get this acceptance, this confirmation that they ARE good enough, makes me truly happy.

[@iceman3332]

Here we go, my fav character! Kanji's social link helped me mature when I was younger as I had been worrying about my identity, like most kids my age. Questioning of sexuality, not getting along with most "macho" peers, and girls thinking I am strange since sex wasn't something I was jumping at the possibility of. Not only did I eventually settle with myself that I am who I am and who cared if everyone is going to like it or not, Kanjis social link has a very important message after that still sticks with me. That even though he says people who don't understand him can get bent, if you just assume people won't understand you and don't try to connect with them at all you're only really hurting yourself. Nowadays I have found friends who enjoy me for me and heck those "shallow macho guys" I didn't get along with in school was partly my own fault. I get along fine with other guys who like to work out a bunch now a days. It has made my life more fulfilled or complete to connect with these many different people. So to anybody out there who got burned by a few people for being "weird" or "strange" don't let that make you assume you're just a black sheep and that's how it will always be. If you look to make real connections with people eventually there is going to be people whom you can truly call friends and that better your life. Just like how Kanji found the investigation team :).

[@bigtimeepic982]

Same man! Helped me accept that doing traditional feminine things isnt wrong and doesn’t make me any less of a man. It makes me a stronger man to embrace what I enjoy.

[@Namingway248]

The idea of acting aloof or aggressive as defense due to fears that you will not be accepted, or worse mocked, is something I think almost everyone can relate to at least once in their life. Ultimately, we all wear masks to get through certain situations or to be polite, but I think what Kanji shows us best is that we are more than just that mask, and that we can strip it off and be our true selves whenever our hearts call for it.

[@djordjekrsmanovic]

Kanji is a very good boy some might even say the best boy

[@HidinginPrivate]

Indeed, people do say that

[@salad7821]

an HOUR LONG hiding in private analysis video? a blessing. keep up the good work. I can't wait to watch this.

[@HidinginPrivate]

Yeah it's a big boy. The 3rd longest segment

[@felixknowlton370]

@@HidinginPrivate the 3rd longest… but the longest one currently posted… 👀 can’t wait

[@MikulOnIce85]

Gotta bring up when yukiko slaps kanji only for her to apologize and say 'she'll do it more gentle next time' kanji is blushing as he says 'more... gentle?' I can't help but think Kanji likes that kind of thing, just a little bit XD

[@GrayD_Fox]

Two things were awakened that day

[@serenepastel]

Kanji has such a strong place in my heart. The friend that introduced to Persona said that when he was in high school, he really didn’t like Kanji’s dungeon, but couldn’t put his finger on why. When we were in college he said that apparently the themes were apparently too much for him to handle because he didn’t even know he was in the closet at the time. I think that shows a lot about the writing, being able to affect someone without even realizing why they are connecting with the character. I think that Kanji and my friend are just completely tied in my mind, so he will always be special. Also the line where he asks if the killer is beating people up with TVs. We love our local doofus in this household. Great analysis as always!

[@rustyshackleford3160]

I love that Kanji's story isn't about being gay. It's about having Pride in oneself. I can see why some people can get confused

[@randomperson5289]

I mean it can be both

[@shorjaken4070]

Being gay can give you the same struggle of lacking pride in yourself because of society, his unique sexuality definitely ties into it all

[@ChaldeaWarmaster]

@@shorjaken4070 I honestly wouldn't have mind if it he really did end up being gay. That said, the Kanji we know how is actually damn cool imo.

[@martispartis05]

I think its both for many, and I love how the game leaves that up to the player! Representation is so important

[@DXGraveman]

@@randomperson5289if you think Kanji’s gay you missed the point. you’re the exact type of person the character himself complains about.

[@raymondtrabulsy7294]

I had a real knack for sewing when I was young, and it did not go over well when I passed home EC with flying colors while all my male friends failed to show how manly they were. Kanji speaks to me on a real personal level.

[@---oq5kb]

Something that I wanted to talk about is his new design. Lots of fan disliked that design and wanted him to go back to what he originally looked. The entire point of his story is that he wasn't allowed to look like how he wanted because he feared he wouldn't look manly enough, and leave it to the fanbase to completely miss that. People who act like that are the type of people that pushed him to fit into the mold created by society.

[@cyanariesdw04]

Kanji is just a one of a kind character. One of my absolute favorites in gaming as a whole. The thing about his social link and Kanji as a character too is that, although yes, his character is about how an aspect of you doesn’t define you as a whole, it also displays how truly being manly involves more than just masculine traits. I remember reading a reply on Twitter a while ago. I don’t exactly remember what it said, but in summary, it basically said “the least toxic people, male or female, exhibit both feminine and masculine traits.” The idea that Kanji is both meant to be a protector and a caretaking really does bring out that the latter is still strong in its own right and Kanji’s growth shows the importance of achieving balance in comparison to limiting yourself.

[@489herobrine9]

My favorite persona character ever, know you'll do him justice. Thanks for making these! EDIT: This video is beautiful, everything I wanted from his character analysis. The nice guy tough guy dichotomy in his boss fight is so obvious in retrospect, but I never considered it. 10/10

[@HidinginPrivate]

I hope you think I do! Hope you enjoy!

[@MatsuyoRific]

Your analysis of Kanji's social link has me thinking about my love of singing. I've always loved singing, and when I was a kid I even wanted to be a singer, but my mother always put me down and told me to stop singing because I was bad at it. She wouldn't even let me sing along to the radio, and for a while, I actually did stop singing. Because of that though, I never got better until I got older and realized how messed up that was. I started singing again, and people even compliment my singing. I know I'm not the best singer out there, but I love it and will only get better if I continue.

[@Force_Of_Habit]

A small detail I like about the main story is that it's Kanji who figures out that the fog from the TV world is leaking into the real world.

[@thefantabulousladyvira]

My favorite member of the party and favorite Persona 4 character overall (only behind the culprit)! Kanji is so cool and I'm excited to see you dig into him!

[@HidinginPrivate]

Hope you enjoy!

[@y2m3e.45]

Kanji is really one of my favorites characters in all of Persona. The story of being misunderstood is something everyone can relate to at some point in their life.

[@nicola7021]

This analysis reminded me of how much I loved kanji. He’s just so unfailingly kind, even after all the mocking and identity struggles he’s gone through. I’ve always wanted to be like him - to have that same bravery and strength of character that he shows. Him learning about accepting himself and not hiding behind tough-guy defence mechanisms meant the world to me and hearing how deeply you delved into his character here was like a dream come true. The mythology & symbolism segments were particularly interesting and informative. Thank you for your hard work 💗💗💗

[@Ky-sk8ep]

I freaking love your analysis, especially bringing up the shifting of his character along with the polarity of the tarot he represents. Time to binge this series lol

[@HidinginPrivate]

Hope you enjoy your binge if you didn't already get to it! On the other end, the full video should be out within the month

[@spudsbuchlaw]

Kanji seems to embody the idea of Platonic Love, a love of the mind that transcends the body

[@Arexion5293]

Kanji's a good reminder that gender dysphoria can happen to anyone. He's in an environment that judges and labels him, tells him that he should act a certain way and have certain traits because he's a guy, and that guys liking feminine things isn't normal. Those social norms and gender roles made him deflect and protect himself, feel like he cannot be himself around others. Being constantly told that a man needs to be a certain way, and then failing to meet those expectations can lead to one feeling shame, guilt and question what they are. ... I relate, hard. Was born in a small rural town that had very strict views about how people should be. Got mocked and bullied for years, called.. every possible slur. I never matched the idea of masculinity, I was constantly called as a girl because of my physique, lack of interest in sports and other things. I never felt like I was a man because the environment kept telling me I didn't match the idea of one. Took me until high school to learn in psychology class how personality has absolutely nothing to do with sexual orientation and gender identity. I am a man, straight even, and I will never match the overall view of masculinity. And that is fine, as that whole view is just some subjective bs that people have decided upon. It doesn't really mean anything, and trying to enforce aspects of it is stupid and immature.

[@AtracBreezy]

This is why people who say Kanji is gay or bi miss the entire point of his story. The whole point is that you can still be a man and like something that’s considered “girly”. The reality is, there isn’t anything that’s inherently girly or manly. There are things that more men do and things more women do but nothing is exclusive to a gender. Sexual orientation, like you said, has nothing to do with that. What you like to do as a hobby has nothing to do with who you like to sleep with.

[@xblade149]

​@@AtracBreezywtf you mean by people you sleep with?

[@AtracBreezy]

@@xblade149 your sexual orientation (straight, gay, bi, whatever) is based solely on which gender you want to have sex with. A dude who wants to knit isn’t gay. Being gay means you’re a guy who likes to sleep with men. Thats why it’s called a SEXUAL orientation. Anything outside of sex has nothing to do with being straight, gay, bi, etc.

[@angela-ro3ev]

@@AtracBreezy i mean yeah but also its pretty clear hes bi

[@AtracBreezy]

@@angela-ro3evhow is it pretty clear? You can maybe infer it but it’s not cut and dry. The only thing that’s cut and dry is he’s not gay.

[@spookieboogi6161]

My mom always said a real man wears whatever color he wants because showing one’s masculinity is done through personal expression and all colors represent moments of our lives and real men accept this.

[@rushink]

Being a man, and openly admitting to the "girly" things you like is the manliest thing ever There's a reason Ryan Gosling as Ken is peak manliness

[@HidinginPrivate]

Indeed

[@kingbaku5092]

THIS IS WHY KANJIS MY FAVORITE

[@gamingdudedonal3312]

Do you mean Kanji I hope you don't mean ken from persona 3

[@rushink]

@@gamingdudedonal3312 Ken from the Barbie movie Ryan Gosling, the guy from Drive and Blade Runner 2049

[@connorkinsman3164]

​@@gamingdudedonal3312 Ryan gosling playing a 10 year old??

[@abmorales5988]

19:03 Take-Mikazuchi's skull on black design is likely a reference to Mexican wrestler La Parka/LA Park. Who in the US was nicknamed "The Chair Man" due to his fondness of using chairs as weapons.

[@kylekiske_]

30:30 - 31:35 thank you for sharing this small reel of stuff you're into, it is hard to share stuff with people sometimes with that fear of rejection.

[@HidinginPrivate]

Yeah, worse than rejection I feel tho is the feeling of a rejection based on misconception. I fear that

[@kylekiske_]

@@HidinginPrivate you're valid. it's why good boi Kanji is so relatable, being rejected for being misunderstood is worse than just rejection outright.

[@weranoutofgoodusernames3105]

it took me an internet search to realize arcana is a part of the megami tensei lore. (idk, before when i was watching your other analyses, i just thought you were really into tarot lore and had made connections between cards and these characters 😭😭) despite me not being a man, the way you described kanji's struggle to have his feminine side be accepted kinda hit hard. draws some parallels with naoto (and hey, that's who he likes!). i appreciate your hard work on this series, thank you for introducing me to it!

[@AnAcquiredTaste]

Kanji Tatsumi is the most important character in fiction to me. When I had first played Persona 4 back in the day, I was a kid with fleeting ideas of my bicurious sexuality and watching him struggle with something very similar made me feel seen. Kanji is just a person who wants to fully absorb himself in the things he loves, despite what society may say or think when they view him. He wants to sew, he wants to be respectful to people, and he wants to just get comfortable in a little corner and do those things. He fights for what he believes in and can grow angry when his steadfast views are challenged and the things he believes in are disrespected, and as someone who also grew up with that, I see myself a lot in Kanji. Nowadays, I am a trans woman who lives my life balancing my femininity and my masculinity as best I can, because I know now that no side of me should be completely shunned and dismissed, because growing up I had Kanji there as a role model to teach me that lesson. He's so much more than the Westernized Homosexual Jokes, he's the manliest man Inaba has every seen, and I wouldn't change a thing about him.

[@fooIigan]

proud of you my goat

[@beasthenshin]

Something I don't know if it was touched on or anything, like if i missed it. But including in the rose imagery, rose in Japanese, as most know, is "bara." This is also used to refer to material written and/or drawn for gay men by gay men about gay men, often depicting men who are very masculine especially in contrast to yaoi, material written for women by women about gay men. The term "bara" in this sense comes from a magazine printed from the 70's to 2008 that included gay male interests and culture called "Barazoku," or "Rose Tribe" I also think, if Yosuke was intended to be dealing with his sexuality as well, it makes a ton of sense that at that time in the story, he is the only party member that has a natural disadvantage to Shadow Kanji, as a manifestation of confused feelings about how you present and what it means.

[@beaubo999]

your true passion showed through this HOUR LONG video. i’ve enjoyed every single one of these analysis videos, and this one, the one i’ve been WAITING for, is honestly the cherry on top. hats off to you dude, really

[@cramarshe]

This analysis felt so personal! I relate to a lot of the things mentioned. Thank you for the excellent video.

[@mickkeathley1514]

Killed it again mate. I found new things to appreciate about his character and P4G

[@HidinginPrivate]

Thanks, I'm always interested in finding new stuff

[@yuki5619]

Kanji is such a sweet boy, I love him, he's one of the best characters in all of persona

[@HidinginPrivate]

Yes yes

[@atelalafford4794]

thanks for making me cry and reminding me how important kanji is to me, he's the character.

[@WishMakers]

Kanji is one of the most relatable characters in any Persona game to me and I will always be grateful for him. Thank you for covering him in a way that really gets to the meat and potatoes of what he's about - in a way describing Kanji helped me to find a better way of describing myself when I don't have the words to :'] ALSO THAT LINE DURING THE BEAUTY PAGEANT SCENE IS *SO* CUTE YOU'RE RIGHT

[@zeveria7206]

I will say, in Yu's defense, that even if Kanji is a well meaning person, he does have a very aggressive personality and Yu's first introduction to Kanji was him threatening to kick the crap out of Yu and his friends for hanging around him. Kanji also bragged at one of the Investigation Team meetings that he intimidated some kid into giving him notes about the case and this is how the gang came to realize that everyone who was thrown into the Midnight Channel had shown up on TV. With that in mind, it's not too unreasonable for Yu to assume he might be a bully...though I do think Kanji deserved the benefit of the doubt. Just my opinion, but I think part of the reason Kanji is so enamored with Naoto is partly due to some of their similar struggles. Particularly when it comes to how they've alienated themselves from others, but also how their interests don't align with their gender and how much they struggle to come to terms with their own masculinity/femininity. And part of it is acceptance too. Naoto has a similar issue actually, where she develops an unhealthy obsession with Yu when romanced, to the point of being a self-admitted stalker. There actually was a two hour long video from someone who went into depth about P4's problems. And among his biggest issues were Kanji and Naoto. I didn't agree with his main reasoning (lgbt stuff), though he did bring up some interesting points. Anyone who's seen that video probably knows which one I'm talking about, but to be on the safe side and avoid and potential comment war on the uploader, I won't name it here. Anyway, great video as always! I can't wait to see Naoto.

[@RaspyCh]

I agree with the first part. First impressions always matter. Like how my first impression with rise was basically what Yosuke thought of her being this cheery celeb and stuff. But then you learn more about her and get used to her. Same thing with kanji. I was like “whoa dude you’re being a bit too aggressive” at first. Also I think the other KZbinr you’re talking about is m********r or k***h one of those two. I remember kinda cringing about their kanji and naoto sections it just felt like a twitter user trying to explain the game at face value, especially the lgbt stuff you mentioned. I hate making these jokes, but it literally felt like the “persona fan playing their favorite game for the first time” or “persona fan can’t read” memes something like that

[@Amarant127]

That moment in his SL when they´re eating in Aiya the owner makes a comment and Kanji threats him with destroying the restaurant.

[@maxenswlfr1877]

@@Amarant127 You forget that Kanji immediately changed his behavior when he noticed and said he would build it back better if he destroyed it

[@Amarant127]

@@maxenswlfr1877 I remember the scene and he changed because Yu was staring at him. He wasn´t serious about it, of course, Kanji isn´t that type of person. But that is the point of his arc: the image that others have of him because his reactions and how he has to have self-control instead of bite back.

[@ah.neat.408]

Naoto does what???

[@HidinginPublic]

YO I LOVE THIS VIDEO

[@BxRad193]

Thank you for putting effort into this analysis. I've only said this once to a friend, Kanji is one of the only persona characters I relate to the most, especially in regard to wanting to be accepted for who they are, being annoyed by society dictating gender roles and expectations and locking up hobbies in fear of being ridiculed. Sexuality is being challenged or mocked at because of having a different preference from everyone else. I never get sick of doing his social link because it is one of the series' most well-done party social links. What I don't look forward to on repeated playthroughs is sitting through cutscenes of the investigation team clowning him. It's stupid that most of the game pins him as an easy punching bag to make jokes at his expense repeatedly. It makes me wonder why he is still friends with Yusuke, Teddie, and Rise after the investigation was over.

[@weisstofall2615]

I really liked your speech about how important art is, and how meaningful it is to share something you really enjoy

[@jakk2631]

Let's go my boy Kanji get a whole hour!

[@HidinginPrivate]

The. Whole! Hour!

[@dimitrimoore3319]

I knew that your kanji video would be one of your longest cause oh boy there’s a lot to him

[@HidinginPrivate]

There sure is. The only longer segments are Naoto and Adachi

[@dimitrimoore3319]

@@HidinginPrivate excited for Naoto she’s my favorite party member

[@jirachiswish690]

During the personal segment, I noticed the little big planet series. You're so phenomenal for having those fr, I love everything you've brought to the table, and I can relate a little bit to feeling a little rejected when someone doesn't feel too into something I like, you're really good at putting emotions and thoughts into words. Thank you so much for this series, it's been nothing short of amazing

[@deloiie]

i find myself identifying with kanji a lot, so much so that discovering someone that i shared so many parallel experiences with in a 2008 jrpg sort of took me aback. thank you for doing him justice, it feels as though you are doing me and others like me justice as well

[@shurno1588]

I love Kanji so Much. I've played the game when i was 13 and Kanji really was a character that Marked me , as someone who struggled with his sexual identity. It marked me how he had hobbies considered feminine and how he could be interpreted as interested in the same gender. And it honestly helped me understand a lot about myself and how i view myself.

[@punishedsquilliam9962]

How do you view yourself?

[@shurno1588]

@@punishedsquilliam9962 Bisexual

[@rustyshackle8000]

I think of every character in P4, besides Yosuke, I relate the most to Kanji. I've never been a very traditionally masculine person. I don't like sports, I've always preferred more intellectual pursuits, (not to bash athleticism, sorry if that's what it seemed like,) and I always felt ostracized for it. ANd like Kanji, I learned to accept that part of myself. Kanji's genuine love and passion for what he does really resonates with me, as someone who is also very passionate about their hobbies. Not to mention shortly after getting Persona 4 Golden, I reevaluated my own sexuality and found out I was actually biseuxal.

[@dellebelphine-moralez3510]

Fun fact: he’s the youngest member of the Investigation Team

[@kingcamelot1395]

I thought that was Rise. Isn't she 15 come the events of Persona 4?

[@dellebelphine-moralez3510]

@@kingcamelot1395 she might be a bit older than Kanji

[@8doomdragon]

There's a scene where Rise explains that she's able to get a license since she's older than Kanji

[@ChefMonke07]

​@@kingcamelot1395It was confirmed in Golden that Rise is a little bit older.

[@maro_vela_22]

Thanks to Kanji, I was introduced to Persona, and yes, I am proud that he overcame his fears and doubts and managed to build himself. Lastly, yes, I do ship him with Naoto.

[@FeltonDood]

These just keep me engaged the whole way through. Thank you for these so much. I can tell it's a lot of work.

[@koblestone1250]

I cannot express how much this video Broke me emotionally, As a guy who resembles Kanji in many ways, Being rather Tall, Muscular, and Masculine, While also being the Rule following type, who feels he should put on some type of intimidation tactic, and someone who also Thinks about his Past alot of the time, mostly about certain comments from Certain people regarding the things that I enjoy, this Video is Really scarily Helpful to me, 30:25 Especially this segment specifically where you got really Personal is extremely accurate to most of my struggles, Hell even Writing this comment is Scary itself thinking about who’s gonna read it seeing how emotional I am getting, but it doesn’t really matter as long as I enjoy what I’m doing (I love writing) I love making Videos that share the type of media and Genres I enjoy, Tho there are still things that I don’t like posting, from fear of how people I know will react, but now this has made me see things in a completely different light, everything I believe in feels like they just faded away simultaneously, it’s so hard to describe Thank you for making this video Especially the other videos for this series, The Rise one also hit hard, I think I will be going on my days while remembering the messages this Video, and Persona 4 were trying to convey front and centre

[@nojo8360]

My favorite analysis video so far man! All the small character details mixed with so many cool edits make these so worthwhile to watch. Love your stuff I can't wait for the next one :)

[@isakjarlestedt2001]

Kanji is by far one of my favorite characters of the game! just such a cool dude that acts so nice. also very good job on the writing, analysis and editing on this video, absolutely great if i were to choose a word to describe this video it would be ''Strong'' :-)

[@ItsDanbo]

PRIVATE MY GUY, you have done it again. I’m glad to finally watch the social link that actually made me tear up. To be a man is to be able to prove yourself to you and yourself til you can prove it to others. From one man to another, I thank you for this video.

[@kissbang52105]

Honestly when i saw just the thumbnail of this video alone i was honestly sort of scared. I watched till the end and i am thankful that i did, this video was so well done and so beautifully put together that no words can begin to describe how much I enjoyed this video. I don't want to bore you with all the details so I'll keep it brief; thank you for making this video-no thank you for being here and making these videos, i hope you never stop and continue to create and upload these wonderful videos. I learned a lot and I've honestly come to like Kanji a lot more now. Thank you.

[@starsong3]

Fantastic video!! Kanji and Naoto in particular hold really special places in my heart, he has so many good lines and nuance brought to life by a fantastic vocal performance, and this video was v fun to watch and learn from- particularly the historical / mythological aspects! Very interesting!

[@sonicdog649]

This man just keep making my Saturday so much better

[@HidinginPrivate]

Happy to hear

[@TallTapper]

kanji is so cool i wish delinquents were real

[@weisstofall2615]

Man, I freaking love revisiting Kanji's story, I love the way he grows

[@MistaThugIsolation420]

This series continues to be the BEST analysis of any Persona game I've ever seen. Amazing job dude!

[@HidinginPrivate]

Thank you! It'd be Sad if it was a disappointment considering this has taken close to a year haha

[@catcocomics1601]

34:00 Ah yeah, the Pink Alligator most bitter-sweet Sun arcana link. Pink to my understanding is a traditionally masculine color, at least in regard to Bushido(?) It had to do with how Samurai understood that, like the sakura blossoms, their time in life and splendor would (often) be short live, so no matter what, they had to make the most of the time they had, in battle and in peace.

[@bastianmarq8698]

I've been waiting for the best boi's video and now its here! Thank you!

[@HidinginPrivate]

Indeed! I know some people were anticipating this for a while!

[@salsamonkey65]

Such a great story! Like many others I relate very strongly to Kanji's identity questioning. Kanji's story is really uplifting in that regard. Thanks for the continually excellent work!

[@gaxyhunter2205]

Damn. Here I am trying to be a Scrooge, and you just keep putting out banger videos like this one. Off to your Patreon it is I guess.

[@HidinginPrivate]

I appreciate the support. It helps a bunch

[@Appl3sandgrapes]

Really enjoying this series Hiding; Kanji is my absolute favorite persona character so this was a real treat! Looking forward to all the parts that come next!

[@johnkkjones]

This video really helped me to understand myself as someone who struggles a lot with their own concept of masculinity. I can really identify with Kanji. I watched your video and went: "That's me!" Lol. I've never even played a Persona game before, but this video has already made me a fan. Thank you for all the hard work you put into making this for yourself and for everyone else. Your work has had a substantial impact on how I view the world and myself. Please continue to make high quality video essays. I'm rooting for you, Hiding-kun!

[@iceman3332]

Video was excellently done like usual. Thanks for such in depth research!

[@HidinginPrivate]

Sure thing! I had fun learning along the way

[@parabox8176]

The fragment around 30th minute, when you talk about not trying to convince others to see the things you like, that felt like talking straight to me. When talks go to things I like, I usually say "nah, not much"/"just this and that". When it does go out that I like anime, manga, games, I have this manner of talking those things down, or mentioning weird parts of them. Something I usually regret later, but can't not do them... Overall I guess I don't like talking about myself/things I like because I'm scared that what I'm saying is boring to the other person... And~ In regard to the video. Damn, I adore Kanji... And you did him justice! He's such a cinnamon roll of a character, and so well-written.

[@hoaujudaiyubel]

30:28 to put what I think you're saying into easier to digest words, Media is art Art is the expression of the inner workings of it's creator's mind through an abstract method and thus media IS a reflection of how people think and feel, A person's thoughts and feelings effect their actions and choices People feel strongly about media because by rejecting or misunderstanding media you are in fact rejecting or misunderstanding an aspect of someone and anyone with similar thoughts and feelings. If this isn't what you ment please correct me so that I may edit this to match what you ment.

[@HidinginPrivate]

Nope i think you got it-! That's what I was getting at

[@AuraOfANobody]

I just wanted to say, that bit in the middle of the video, about media and art and our connections to them, it reminded me of something. I've seen a lot of other neurodivergent folk talk about how sharing a special interest or hyperfixation with someone, it's less like "hey, check out this thing I like," and more like baring your soul, because those things really do become a part of us in some way. On a related note, it's funny, because, like. There's also some discussion of, like, "You can't choose what you hyperfixate on or what becomes a special interest," and god, do I feel that, I spent the past year and a half or so hyperfixating on a game that, let's be honest, it was critically panned for good reason, and even I'm willing to admit is Objectively Not Good. So yeah, I make fun of it, and I crack jokes about my dumbass ADHD brain trying to wring dopamine out of this terrible, *terrible* game and its tie-in materials, especially for this long, because, you know what, it IS funny. I played good games last year, I could have hyperfixated on something normal, something good, I could have clung on to P5 or something, I finally got into Persona last year, P5 would have made *sense.* Or I could have gone back to one of my old ones, you know, Kirby, Pokemon, fuckin, I dunno, the Guardians of Ga'Hoole even, and yet here I am, only just now finally getting Bad Game™ out of my brain, only made possible because Splatoon 3 is dropping in a week and I'm finally going to be able to go back to Cephalopod Hell instead, lmao. But in spite of the jokes, and how deserved they are, I've been lucky enough to have found a friend who's seen me talk at length about Bad Game™, watched me go on completely inane rants about its lore and characters and implications of its worldbuilding and story... he looked at those multiple tangents longer than the character limit on Discord WITH Nitro, and was like, "I'm glad you were able to connect with this thing like this, you're so valid." And even though I replied with something along the lines of "Lmao no I'm not, this is the worst hyperfixation I've ever had, this game fucking sucks :KEKW:", I am glad to have found someone who gets it. I'm lucky to be able to call him my friend. I don't really know where I was going with this? That part just Hit and my brain decided it was an appropriate thing to ramble in the comments about, lol. This is gonna sound dumb, considering I'm out here watching these analyses, but I'm still very slowly making my way through the Persona franchise - and I mean Very slowly, I'm still trying to get though P3Fes - so I haven't actually gotten to play P4 yet. But between the whole topic of interests being a part of you that you brought up here, and the stuff I already knew about with Kanji's character in a broad sense, that exploration of masculinity and identity that's relevant to me as a trans dude... I think I'm gonna enjoy Kanji a lot when I finally get around to playing.

[@geese3000]

I just finished Golden and im so happy to find the sheer amount of Golden content you have, great stuff!!

[@spookieboogi6161]

I loved him as a character I was a teenager at the time and my best friend was closet gay he made me some of the signs and his mind was blown when he came out and everyone in the group knew already because I talked to them and explained it and they were all like yeah we knew dude for like 4 years dudes married now to his partner and happy as hell, I think if games did more characters like kanji who is either bi or gay but shown like a literal normal dude would go a long way to having nore LGBTQ representation. Were beyond the point of any representation is good representation where at the point where it needs to be shown right not like being shoved in peoples faces. Kanji is the perfect representation.

[@madrat8060]

Kanji, Akihiko (I know he isn't The Emperor, he's The Star, but he feels like a emperor to me) and Yusuke. Atlus is really on a roll with likeable, complex, and overall entertaining Emperor characters. I was kinda bummed that Rise came before Kanji because honestly, Kanji's more interesting to talk about, but I'm now glad I get to see a full-depth analysis of the true GOLDEN BOY. Now on to the final member of IT, The Dectective Prince(ss), Naoto Shirogane.

[@adyn8811]

Akihiko actually is from the Emperor arcana. It's just that for femc route his social link is the Star

[@madrat8060]

@@adyn8811 Oh, Awesome 👌

[@Skybound-wd4pm]

I don't have much to say here but this series has been really facinating and ive learned a lot so thank you

[@samadactyl8724]

I just started this video but I can already tell you went above and beyond more than you usually do and it’s what Kanji deserves. Thanks for all you do

[@PandeBunnyArchive]

Thank you so much for making this video, the amount of effort you put into the analysis and how deep you went to disect a character a scomplex as this just impresses me Kanji quickly became one of my favourite characters evevr due how relatable his experiences and story were and thanks to you i was able to relive and remember why i loved this character so much and how much he meant to me again just like when i was playing it for the first time

[@rileyninja9733]

I'm glad we both bother to try enjoy/appreciate something regardless of if it is the type of thing we'd typically like. It's important to have people that put that care into life.

[@rileyninja9733]

This could apply to human beings, everything has another perspective to understand. I rice field may be fairly shallow but it also might stretch for a mile (idk much about rice fields)

[@jacobjennings2973]

Always look forward to your videos man, great way to start the day!

[@HidinginPrivate]

Thanks! Happy to hear, and hope you have a good one

[@nicola7021]

A whole hour of best boy Kanji analysis???? This is like my birthday 💗💗💗💗💗

[@HidinginPrivate]

It's your new birthday. Happy new birthday

[@TheCosmicJester01]

I absolutely loved this deep dive. Kanji and Naoto are 2 of my favorite Persona Characters of all time. I don't have anything to really add to it other than I appreciate this analysis video. Learned a lot about the background details I wouldn't have known before. Like in regards to the bathhouse or the Japanese around said bathhouse. Aa for Kanji's sexuality, I think you hit it on the head. If I were to label his sexuality, it'd likely be Pan/Omnisexual. Since as you mentioned, it doesn't seem like gender/sex matter to Kanji. If anything, it seems he just has a type for androgyny more than anything. Or at the very least, seems into more masculine folk than feminine. My reasoning is the nose bleeds towards Yu and Yosuke, though I'd argue neither of them are really "masculine" They're uh. Twinks lol. And Naoto fits the mold closer to Yu and Yosuke than Rise and Yukiko. Gender might not matter to him, but it seems like it's more of masculine vs feminine for him. And as someone who doesn't have a gender preference but prefers more feminine folk, the opposite of Kanji, it just reads that way to me.

[@bananabike279]

This has to be my favourite analysis of yours yet! Kanji was already my favourite character and this video helped to understand him even more. The whole message about not being ashamed of what you like and instead take pride in it was really inspiring

[@St34lthchimp]

All these character analysis videos are PEAK CONTENT! Thank you for all the work you put into these. So well done.

[@randomuserupsidedown]

really love watching/listening to your vids while doing my schoolwork, especially since ive been into p4g alot recently

[@catharticreverie]

I don't know if other people have mentioned it or if it was just intentionally left out, I feel like the Roses on Shadow Kanji are implying to Bara, which is Rose in japanese, and referring to the genre of big muscly gay men in Japanese porn. It might be outside influence of "the world" onto his shadow since Kanji is Naive when it comes to sexual things. Although we know he isn't naive to other vices like drinking since he tried to put that bottle of booze in the Junes cart when they were making the omelet, so who really knows how innocent he really is. I also feel like it's notable that the Hulk Hogan Shadow first appears in this game in his dungeon with that Rainbow hair.

[@ItsShaz1]

Loved the video! My boi Kanji’s time to shine!

[@HidinginPrivate]

Thanks! It finally arrived

[@manimifire8563]

Thank you for another amazing video. Everything here wraps up Kanji's character perfectly and I couldn't have it any better for my man, my guy Kanji Tatsumi.

[@mastercnn1222]

Ayeee I've been hype for this one to drop! Keep up the amazing work

[@HidinginPrivate]

Here it is! Hope you like it!

[@wacky1210]

Really cool video, made me feel comforted, thanks!

[@AgentMulder120]

im glad you didnt deny his queerness or call him gay, two things that really tick me off cus he is at the VERY least bisexual with a preference for women (hes just like me fr), and at most pansexual. it irritates me cus i identify with kanji a lot for several reasons, one of which is his queerness so when people call him gay or refuse to acknowledge his bisexuality i tend to take it personally lol

[@yuki5619]

Truly excellent video best boy, I loved it! The amount of work and effort you put in it was worth it, thank you for what you do!

[@ShadowoftheDude]

I'm early in the video, but I wanted to bring up one important thing: maybe this isn't as well known to western straights, but bathhouses being a site for gay cruising was also a big thing in western history, even since Roman times and despite various laws against it. Pretty sure they exist to this day, although to a much lesser degree. In fact, I think they only fell in popularity due to laws on prostitution? Don't quote me on that. So maybe for folk who don't know much queer history, their mind goes to 'don't drop the soap,' but for me at least, the context is actually very similar to the original Japanese.

[@lenierka]

SHEEEESHHH one hour long vid. I'm going to enjoy this one

[@HidinginPrivate]

Sheeeeesh hope ya do

[@homiestuck2585]

Some p4 fans will come down on you hard if you suggest kanji very well might be bi/pan and or questioning. So thank you for not blindly saying he is 100 percent straight as if the game isn't leading you to question his sexuality. Much respect for your whole p4 analysis

[@mr.selyumor5402]

They’re gonna come down on you because the labels are objectively not the point

[@xblade149]

​@@mr.selyumor5402 bruh just stop. It's clearly obvious you want to disregard the queer coded aspect of kanji character

[@robo1513]

@@mr.selyumor5402 I understand your point, but he's not real, people speculate about stupid simple things about fictional characters all the time and Kanji's sexuality is something that is brought up by the narrative of course people are going to speculate about his sexuality

[@malyarfeyzullah749]

Kanji my beloved ❤🙏

[@HidinginPrivate]

Indeed ❤️

[@marquisehebbler9471]

I absolutely love his character. I think this analysis helped me figure out some things in my own life. So thank you

[@HidinginPrivate]

Well that's always great to hear. Hope you're doing well

[@BakedBeans243]

Honestly the part about how in the past of Japan it was even seen as positive to be homosexual as a way of appreciating men in general makes so much sense to be like what’s more manly than liking men that’s like in theory the manliest thing a man could do if you really think about it

[@genderenigma8276]

Kanji is honestly just best boi.

[@HidinginPrivate]

Yeah

[@SmugLilBugger]

I love the idea that Kanji's father misguided him into becoming defensive, but not because he hated his son for who he was deep down, but because Kanji himself misunderstood what his father meant, who couldn't clarify it in time before his demise. He wanted Kanji to be manly in the sense that he sticks up for he is. That he should stop being ashamed of liking the things the does and tell people off who make fun of him for it. Kanji on the contrary understood being manly as being a textbook macho who should intimidate others to keep himself safe.

[@naughtiusmaximus5954]

Hype. Will definitely watch later

[@HidinginPrivate]

Glad to hear

[@unwrittenmariposa09]

Man. Hearing his dialogue, Troy Baker is such an amazing voice actor. I love Kanji. Best boi.

[@mr.selyumor5402]

I get more out of his JP voice. I like the energy.

[@ramburgervalentine7621]

Peak of p4. Easily my fav character and one of the most funny, emotional sl in the persona games

[@HidinginPrivate]

I love how his inarticulateness and Voice work really makes him seem troubled but earnest