Messages to Kentarou Miura: Shizuya Wazarai (2)

This post is now available to Silver & Bronze tiers.

Part 1 of this translation can be found here


Regarding the scale of his talent and the quality of his character (4), I couldn’t match him at all, but he was such a “good guy” with a great personality that I couldn’t even be vexed (by it). I was happier when Miura Kentarou praised my work than at any other time, like when my series was animated or my tankobon were reprinted.

It’s because I’ve been following the example that he set. (5)
Now I can’t hear his gentle voice anymore. I’ve been knocked down by that harsh reality every day.
If it was going to be like this, I should have talked with him more. I’m continuously overcome with this regret. Whenever I recall “the words” he gave me, I can’t hold back my tears. Each time I do, I repeat to myself that I can do nothing but strive forward, leaning on them. I never imagined a day would come when I would draw manga in a world without Miura Kentarou. But that day came so early and in such a way…

How cold-hearted this bad trick of fate is… He could already see the finish line for his lifework. For his sudden death to occur just after we heard his declaration of beginning the “home stretch”, I can’t find the words except to say it’s so regrettable. It’s the utmost grief.

I wished to initiate a discussion project with the three of us, including Mori Kouji-kun, to celebrate Berserk’s 30th anniversary that should have been (celebrated) next… How could “the main character” exit the world insipidly like this! (6) You shouldn’t have, Ken-chan.

Wazarai Shizuya


(4) In Japanese, he uses the phrase “the size of his human vessel”, which means someone’s ability, generosity, personality…
(5) Here too, Wazarai uses the expression “following his back”.
(6) He’s talking as if Miura were a performer who left the stage.