Hira Hira

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Very excited to write my first review and the first for this manga. I am a very big fan of the mangaka - Ame Arare Sensei's work. There is one more similar manga on the same theme but the time period in which both the manga are set is a little different.

With the word "geisha" many people may think that the work is probably hentai. But trust me, this one is more related to the conditions of the girls who chose the occupation during that time than sex. There are four one shots, very heart warming stories, some may make one cry too and very ... intricate art.

Plots (8) - There are four one shots, all tragedies, but the twists generally leave the protagonists (and readers, as a matter of fact) satisfied and give them power to survive in their world. These stories tell about the way geishas are treated by men and how they have to suppress their feelings for the people they love, it may be family or lovers. And the plot of each story gives one important message that they're human beings too. World may call girls who sell their bodies "whore" and "slut", but they may not be doing it for fun. They may have circumstances that lead to them taking up this profession. But don't be mistaken. The manga doesn't promote prostitution in any way. It is an attempt to show the humane side of geishas through four different stories

Art(10) - The art is just awesome. It's not easy to make those heavy dresses and accessories for not only the main character but also the people around her. Since it's a historical manga, the clothes need much more attention. The balance between the apparel and the body is near perfect. The sharp lines and dark tones give it a totally unique style. The art is what drove me to read the manga more than the plots (of course, they played a major role too). So I give the art a perfect 10.

Character (8) - Well, they're one shots, so one can't expect a real character development but according to me, the quality doesn't get compromised. One gets proper introduction of each character which plays main part in the story.

Enjoyment (9) - Definitely great. One can feel the pain when they cry or are sad. The emotions are overwhelming in the manga.

Overall (10) - I did give it 8 and 9 in some areas but at overall level, I consider it a masterpiece due to the art, stories and emotions in that order.