This is, simply put, the most accurate depiction of the LGBT+ experience I have ever read in Manga. If you are looking for a BL story this is not it. It's bitter, honest, and up-front about the pain of human connection, the contradictions we all create in personhood and the struggle of being alone vs being understood.
Characters across all ages, in various stages of their lives and their identities come together to form a community.
I've seen some people say this is not an accurate depiction of the Gay experience and I have to disagree. As someone who was outed by people I thought were friends, I found the initial chapters incredibly relatable. I live in a western, relatively accepting country, and I was still completely hurt and utterly terrified when it happened to me. Having an intimate part of you shared without your permission is terrifying, and I have never seem those feelings so clearly represented then here.
The ending is a little bittersweet, not every question is answered, not every relationship turns out perfectly fixed, not all characters react to situations like you want them to. But the story is fulfilling, the characters are empathetic, and everything feels painfully human.
Also it's beautifully drawn!! The mix of expressionist art and bitterly realistic storytelling really got to me.
If you're interested in LGBT+ things or just coming of age stories in general, I consider it a must read.
