News: Moe (萌え) Defined?

July 21, 2005, 06:18 PM

by vincent, via Matthew's Anime Blog -
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Kabudeikou.jpgA little bit of cruising around the anime blog circuit sent me to an interesting analysis (posted 7/18) of moe by mangaka Ken Akamatsu (of Love Hina and Mahou Sensei Negima fame). For the more linguistically challenged, check out this helpful translation and comments section, courtesy of Matthew Whitehead.

<Brandon's notes:> First off, if you don't want to click - the general concept of 'moe' is the feeling of affinity for a cute (cute like a kitten is cute) young girl, with non-sexual implications. It's particularly relevant now, because the market for moe-related goods (posters, figures, anime, manga) in japan is increasing among adult males. Next, speaking of moe, Zepy has a the scoop on Kabudeikou, a humorous stock-trading book by the guys that made Moetan (see nov. 23). I'll copy his words here.

Basically, the 2D moe industry is going to collapse in 10 years and the guy has to become a top trader to become influential enough to save moe. Or everybody will become ugly american comic women. Also of note is the happy trading section of the site, where they talk about trading little sisters for money. (The kanji for stocks and little sister is similar)