Podcast Episode 245: The Flowers of Evil Volume 1

Podcast Episode 245: The Flowers of Evil Volume 1

Author: Sesho June 27, 2012 Duration: 14:36

Manga podcast review of The Flowers of Evil volume 1 by Shuzo Oshimi. Translated by Paul Staar. Originally published in Japan by Kodansha. Published in US by Vertical, $10.95

From the back cover:

"Nowhere to go. Nothing to do. The routine of class and endless stupidity in a provincial town is taking a toll on middle schooler Takao Kasuga. Though he gets along well enough with his peers, they'll never begin to dig any of that reading business that's his only true escape. What can he expect when he's in love with foreign stuff like the poems of Charles Baudelaire?

Yet, his life threatens to take a turn for the worse when he finds and takes home, in a moment of weakness, the gym clothes of pretty, sweet, and smart Nanako Saeki on whom he has a major crush. Witness to the theft is the oddest girl in class, who seems to consider the whole world a pile of excrement and to nurse a terribly sadistic streak...."

My Grade: A-


For over a decade, Sesho's Anime and Manga Reviews has been a consistent voice in the fandom, offering deep dives into the stories that captivate us. Host Sesho approaches each title with the dual perspective of a dedicated fan and a thoughtful critic, creating conversations that are as insightful as they are enthusiastic. This isn't just about what's new and trending; you'll find classic series discussed with the same reverence as the latest seasonal hit, exploring how they hold up and why they mattered. Each episode of the podcast feels like a detailed, personal analysis, breaking down narrative themes, artistic choices, and character development without relying on simple thumbs-up or thumbs-down verdicts. Whether it's a sprawling shonen epic, a poignant slice-of-life manga, or an avant-garde anime film, Sesho examines the work on its own terms. Listeners get a blend of informed critique and genuine passion, making it a perfect companion for anyone who wants to move beyond surface-level reactions. The show covers the vast spectrum of Japanese storytelling, from mainstream pillars to obscure gems, all through a critical and passionate eye. Tune in for a podcast that treats anime and manga with the serious discussion they deserve, while never losing sight of the fun and wonder that draw us to them in the first place.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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