Learning about Showa-era humor and tolerance from Bakabon's dad
Anime that reflects the life and spirit of the Showa era: Learning about Showa era humor and tolerance from Bakabon's dad
"This is fine" - these words encapsulate all the humor and tolerance of the Showa era. Bakabon's father, the main character of "Tensai Bakabon," drags those around him down with his unconventional words and actions, but he is also a lovable character who left a deep impression on the hearts of the people of the Showa era.
This time, I would like to explore the humor and tolerance of the Showa era through the character of Bakabon's dad, and explore how this resonates with WABISUKE's philosophy.
Unconventional humor
Bakabon's father effortlessly transcends logic and order. He becomes a police officer, then suddenly quits and becomes a philosopher. Despite a series of meaningless actions, the story somehow works. This is the power of the "space" that was inherent in Showa-era humor.
Showa-era humor doesn't demand perfection. Rather, it closes the gaps between people by turning inconsistencies and mistakes into laughter. Bakabon's father's words and actions embody this "affirmation of imperfection."
WABISUKE's content creation also values "flavor" and "space" over perfection. For example, articles on themes such as Showa-era anime and family memories appeal to the "slight discrepancy" and "nostalgic discomfort" felt by readers. Like Bakabon's dad, we aim to create expressions that are incomprehensible but memorable.
The "This is good enough" philosophy
Bakabon's father's catchphrase, "This is fine," is not just a joke. It is also a phrase that symbolizes the tolerance of the Showa era. Even if you fail, make a mistake, or are strange, you accept it as "this is fine." This attitude is in stark contrast to the efficiency-based approach of today.
Life in the Showa era was characterized by a "gentle tolerance" that did not demand perfection. Families laughing together around the low table, nosy interactions with neighbors, and an atmosphere of laughing off failure. Bakabon's father embodies this Showa atmosphere.
WABISUKE's brand philosophy also has something in common with "This is good enough." For example, when renovating a building that is steeped in family memories, rather than replacing everything, we identify what should be preserved. It may not be perfect, but it has meaning. We incorporate these values into our spaces and words.
Humor and tolerance coexist
Bakabon's dad manipulates those around him, but he never hurts anyone. Rather, his presence gradually changes the people around him. This is the "power of the space" that is born when humor and tolerance coexist.
This kind of "power of space" was often depicted in Showa-era anime. Characters with strong personalities clashed with each other, but ultimately came to accept each other. Bakabon's father was the "magnetic field of tolerance" that stood at the center of it all.
WABISUKE's spatial design and content creation also place great importance on this "power of place." For example, when designing a building that will be used across generations, we create space where different values can coexist. In our blog articles, we are conscious of structuring them in a way that allows the reader's memories and emotions to flow freely. Like Bakabon's dad, we hope to be a presence that loosens up the atmosphere and unravels hearts.
Conclusion: Showa Era Laughter is Still Alive
"Tensai Bakabon" is a work that depicts the humor and tolerance of the Showa era in the form of gags. It contains kindness that does not demand perfection, wisdom that turns inconsistencies into laughter, and the strength to say, "This is good enough."
WABISUKE wants to be a presence that gently brings memories of Showa-era laughter into modern life. For example, articles that trace family memories, a sense of nostalgia that permeates the space, and choice of words that linger in the reader's mind. These things remain quietly but surely in our hearts, just like the laughter of Bakabon's father.
The humor and tolerance of the Showa era still lives on in the crevices of our lives. And it is our hope that WABISUKE's craftsmanship and stories can bring laughter to that atmosphere.