Denji's character does grow in Chainsaw Man chapter 183 despite appearances

Modified Nov 18, 2024 03:30 GMT

Denji's character does grow in Chainsaw Man chapter 183 despite appearances (Image via MAPPA Studios)

While fans were unsure of what to expect from Chainsaw Man chapter 183 heading into its official release, mangaka Tatsuki Fujimoto’s choices were nonetheless shocking. Rather than focusing on a Power and Aki flashback as some had theorized may be the case, the issue instead took a macro approach to look at Denji’s life experiences thus far.

In this way, Chainsaw Man chapter 183 suggested that significant development would be coming for the character. However, some fans were disappointed by the simplicity of the revelation Denji reaches at the issue’s end, asserting that he didn’t move forward or grow at all. Yet in reality, Denji did grow, and it’s only difficult to see because he did it in a way that fits with who he is as a person.

Denji’s decision to live in Chainsaw Man chapter 183 is character growth in and of itself

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Chainsaw Man chapter 183 begins with Denji remembering Aki Hayakawa and Power in a flashback, saying he still had fun with them then while questioning why he was remembering it now. This quickly transitions into flashback sequences focusing on Reze and Control Devil Nayuta. As a result, Denji eventually realizes that even though he’s been through tough times, he still has good memories to look back on and that he should always cherish them.

This is the true meaning behind Denji saying that “as long as the world has grub and girls, [he] still [has] something to live for” in chapter 183’s final pages. He’s essentially realizing that despite the tragedy that constantly pervades and characterizes his life, there are so many small victories and moments of happiness within those losses. Him thinking of all the people he once loved, specifically in this issue, further drives home this message.

However, Chainsaw Man chapter 183 doesn’t introduce this theme; instead, it drives home something that has been present from the opening issues. In this terrifying world of Devil attacks and all that come with them, one’s reasons for living don’t matter. This is a key theme of the early series, as Denji meets Aki and others while learning their dreams and motivations. The Leech Devil battle drives home this point via Denji’s dialogue with the creature.

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Denji even realizes that despite the fears that he’ll be “hopeless” for the rest of his life, he can still find joy in both his tragic past and even his confusing present. This is specifically key for Denji, as he previously only lived to achieve something rather than appreciating what he has in the here and now. His time with Control Devil Nayuta likely laid the base for this growth, especially since Denji has now lost that life and is likely mourning everything he loved about it.

While fans would certainly be forgiven for not realizing this, what’s important is to acknowledge the message that Fujimoto is trying to send about who Denji is and his growth. Likewise, Chainsaw Man chapter 183 is an incredibly momentous moment for the character and will likely set the tone for the rest of his personal story.

Final thoughts

Denji seemingly has a new outlook on life following chapter 183's events (Image via MAPPA Studios)

Denji’s growth in chapter 183 is some of the most significant and quantifiable throughout his entire journey thus far. It’s also likely to be incredibly important to Denji’s progression as he moves past the apparent death of Nayuta and figures out what to do next in life. While that may be up for debate, what’s clear is that Denji will continue living and struggling to find life’s little joys.