Denji's words in Chainsaw Man about his family are deeper than fans think

Modified Nov 27, 2024 17:16 GMT

In Chainsaw Man chapter 184, Denji makes some powerful statements about family that resonate far deeper than the initial looks. Majorly defined by his chaotic and blunt personality, Denji hasn't really delved into deep emotional introspection. But, when confronted by the Aging Devil and thrust into a moment of despair, his declaration about the nature of family is a sight to behold for his character.

Denji asserts that he would find a new family regardless of the number of times tragedy struck. This showcases his developing resilience and evolving worldview. They mustn't be mistaken for empty proclamations, but rather, they underscore his capacity to re-evaluate familial bonds amidst all the chaos. Such a statement is layered with pain as well as hope.

It speaks a lot about Denji's grasp of love and loss. While a less action-packed chapter in comparison to previous additions, Chainsaw Man chapter 184 was more about a glimpse into Denji's growth as an individual.

Disclaimer: This article is speculative in nature.

Chainsaw Man: Denji's words about family are more profound than initial impressions

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Chainsaw Man chapter 184 featured a dialogue between Denji and the Aging Devil. The Aging Devil trapped Denji in its world and attempted to urge him to convince Pochita to consume it. It would result in the fulfillment of a previously forged contract with Public Safety, which would lead to the death of children all over Japan. While Pochita was a Devil, he was no monster, so this couldn't happen.

The Aging Devil tried to play on Denji's grief over losing Nayuta, i.e., his "family member," saying that he hadn't cared much for her if he was already over her demise. But Denji's response here truly showcases how far he has come. In retort, Denji stated that he would find family again at some time, and if they passed, he'd repeat the process like a "perpetual motion machine."

This is where some of the Chainsaw Man fandom seems to misunderstand what Denji means. Denji is not disregarding or devaluing what he had with Nayuta, Aki, and Power. They were his only family and the only ones close to him. Denji's words are him referring to his acceptance that they are no more, which is not his fault. They died for different reasons, none of which he holds the blame for.

Moreover, Chainsaw Man chapter 183 showcased memories of those very people, including Reze. These memories weren't meant to make him sad. Rather, they were invaluable moments where he felt happy and at ease. Of course, he was hurt that these individuals were no more, but he needed to accept the reality and keep moving, as Pochita willed. That is exactly what he acknowledges here.

Denji’s mindset does not view his loved ones as disposable. Instead, it is a graduation from “I can never have a family” to “Family isn’t something I’m destined to lose; it is something I can keep building.” His "cr*pburg*r" conversation with Asa sheds light on him, disallowing his pain to define him. It is where he decides to embrace the concept that despite the loss, room for new bonds and love yet exists.

Simultaneously, Denji holds the recollection of those close to him, using it as fuel alongside food and girls (wouldn't be Denji otherwise). This is much better than attempting to erase the bad memories like he once wanted to (similar to Makima wanting to do away with bad movies to "help" humanity). The process is flawed and complex, but it stands as the best answer for him.

In fact, that is what makes him all the more human. He requires this revelation to continue moving forward and push his way out of Aging's World instead of getting swayed by the Devil.

In Conclusion

Denji’s evolution in Chainsaw Man captures the crux of resilience and humanity amid loss. His refusal to give in to the despair of the Aging Devil’s world highlights a deep personal growth — the capacity to mourn, cherish, and move forward. Though unorthodox, Denji’s viewpoint brings to light a necessary truth that familial bonds are defined by the love and value they hold, not permanence.

The boy accepting the losses he has suffered and his willingness to rebuild mirrors an arduous maturity. This marks a direct contrast to the naive and impulsive boy that was introduced in the beginning. Such a transformation, though distorted, is proof of his enduring will to decode the meaning of life.

Ultimately, Denji’s words reaffirm the series' exploration of the human condition — balancing raw emotion with an enduring hope for connection and purpose.

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Edited by Shreya Das