One Piece's Will of D. may be a reference to Japan's most iconic lucky charm

Modified Jan 12, 2025 20:30 GMT

The 'Will of D' is one of the biggest mysteries that One Piece hasn't given any hints about. However, the clues to its reality might have been before the fans for a long time, and they relate to a very popular Japanese doll known to bring luck. The Darue Doll might be the true representation of the Will of D and might also be a hint of the Ancient Kingdom's reality, as well as a reference to the Kingdom to Impel Down.

The Daruma doll signifies perseverance and determination, and this might be the D clan's true representation, through its acts. Moreover, 'Daruma' might also be the name of the Ancient Kingdom where everyone taught lessons of perseverance. Additionally, the Impel Down's logo also indicates that it might be designed to lock up the members of the D clan.

Disclaimer: This article contains potential spoilers from the One Piece manga series and has the author's opinion.

One Piece: Exploring the true meaning behind the 'Will of D'

The D clan members (Image via Toei Animation)

The 'Will of D' refers to the will of the D clan of One Piece. D clan is famous for their resolute fate and how they do not abandon their goals unless death crosses their path. The most famous members of this clan include Monkey D Luffy, Gol D Roger, and Marshall D Teech. As famous as these members may be, their will is still something that the series' never shed any light on.

However, the true representation of this 'will' might be before the fans and it might be related to the famous Japanese doll, the Daruma doll. The Daruma doll is a famous lucky charm in Japan that is used by people to bring luck to the house. The doll has also been used in media signifying various meanings. The key feature of this doll is its ability to stand up no matter how many times you tilt it.

Given its key feature, this doll might be the true representation of the D clan and might also be their will (signifying the message always to stand up no matter how many times you fall).

Impel Down Logo (Image via Toei Animation)

This reference might go back to the Void Century and might give hints about the Ancient Kingdom's true name. Before that, let's look at a detail some fans might have ignored.

Impel Down is the most dangerous prison cell of One Piece due to its prisoners being the biggest criminals from the Grand Line. The prison's logo might be a 'D' cut in half with wings around.

The Ancient Kingdom as seen in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

So, Impel Down might have some relationship with the D clan and this might go back to its origins. Impel Down might have been established after the Void Century where JoyBoy and the Ancient Kingdom faced defeat. So, its logo might represent that it was a prison solely meant for the D clan members (broadly, members of the Ancient Kingdom).

All of these hints would ultimately conclude that the Ancient Kingdom was the Kingdom of the D (Daruma) where everyone was taught the Will of D (stay strong no matter how many times you fall). After the defeat, some members were imprisoned in Impel Down and the 'First Twenty' took over the world as the 'World Government.'

Analysis and final thoughts

A common problem with One Piece theories is how they don't click in the mind. The sole reason behind it is the lack of backing from canon material (as the majority of mysteries in the series are not unveiled).

However, this theory does click to some point given its relation with the Japanese norms. While some details might hardly be passable, the theory has the potential to become true. Just to be on the safe side, however, take it just as a form of entertainment.

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Edited by Tiasha