- Mangaka : Nagaru Tanigawa
- Publisher : Yen Press
- Genre : Fantasy, Sci-fi, Supernatural
- Published : September 2012
Haruhism is a mock religion that follows Haruhi Suzumiya, the protagonist of the Haruhi Suzumiya novel series. It’s since then been adapted into manga, as well as into anime, which caused its popularity to soar. The series’ popularity further exploded through the internet, and the internet has done its magic. The fans gathered through social media groups and forums and created a new religion called Haruhism. The first step into actually knowing what it is is the very first book of the series -- The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya.
Contains Spoilers
Discussion Time
Despite what the title might suggest, the real main character of the series is not Haruhi Suzumiya. Rather, it’s her classmate, who she’s been dragging along, named Kyon. Kyon is a pretty much regular high school student until he met and got dragged along into Haruhi’s whims. Haruhi is fascinated with mysteries and the unknown. From aliens to espers, she wants to unravel the mysteries behind them. However, Haruhi is quite special, which results in Kyon meeting actual real aliens, time travelers, and espers.
1. A Cult Classic
As we’ve stated earlier, The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya has already a loyal following. Since it’s literally been years since the series first came out, its first generation of fandoms has already gotten old. However, the series’ quality remains the same. Before you ask, yes, quality can change. What’s amazing then may no longer be amazing now. The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, along with other classics like Bleach and Pokemon, remains top of its genre.
2. Knowing the “God” More
The big plot twists the series probably laid out is the fact that Haruhi is, in fact, God. She has the power to realize her wants, which is the reason aliens, time travelers, and espers came into being. The catch, however, is that Haruhi has zero idea of her real identity. For her, she’s just a normal high school student, which may be on the crazier side of the spectrum. But the mere fact that her thoughts literally change the rules of the world makes her a switch to mankind’s end. That said, it’s the gang’s responsibility to ensure she remains happy.
3. Crazy Antics by a Crazy Protagonist
Haruhi thinks that she’s just like her classmates, a normal human being, even if she isn't. Despite that, her high schooler brain still inhibits her thoughts, which is why the laws of the world haven’t gone completely haywire there. However, it’s arguable that Haruhi doesn’t have to be God to stir great adventures. We mean, Haruhi’s actions alone are worthy of being called crazy. She even blackmailed her schoolmates into giving her club the best computer they have.
Final Thoughts
Reading The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya sure brings back memories. After all, it’s a nostalgic reminder of how old we really are. We vaguely remember sitting in front of the television as we watch Kyon get dragged into various weird situations as he tries to appease Haruhi’s whims. As part of a lot of people’s childhood and probably others bible, The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya still lives up to its reputation.
Author: Christian Markle