The aesthetics of "ego" depicted by Blue Rock - Why are only those who stick to their individuality able to seize victory? Introduction

Soccer has long been considered a sport in which teamwork is essential. However, Blue Lock overturns this conventional wisdom and is a unique soccer manga that focuses on individual ego. In this work, the key to becoming the strongest forward (striker) is the strength to pursue one's goals even at the expense of pushing others down. What does it mean that "only those who stick to their individuality can seize victory," and why has this work captivated so many readers?

What is the aesthetics of ego?

In Blue Lock, ego is portrayed as the most important force in soccer. The Blue Lock project at the center of the story is a project to help Japan win the World Cup, with the aim of creating the strongest forward. 300 high school students participate, and they are placed in an extreme survival situation where they compete against each other on the basis of their individual abilities. What is highlighted in this process is how much the players can hone their own "ego" and become different from others.

In normal soccer manga, teamwork and friendship are often emphasized, but in "Blue Lock," egoism is depicted as the most admirable quality. This does not mean that being self-centered is good, but that the pursuit of "individual" strength is necessary to grasp victory.

The strength of individuality: Kiyoyoichi's growth

The main character, Kiyoyoichi, was originally a player who played for his role and for his team. However, after joining Blue Lock, he gradually came to understand that in order to win, it was important to put himself first. His growth progresses through the complex emotions of competing with others, sometimes pushing them down, and sometimes fighting alongside them. The cold reality that those without ego cannot survive gradually changes him.

This process involves not just physical and technical growth, but also mental growth. The ego aesthetic is the power that comes from breaking through one's own limitations and being true to one's own desires and goals, not the evaluation of others.

Ego and competition to win

In Blue Rock, constant competition is the basis of the story. The players must beat others to come out on top, and in the process, their egos are gradually strengthened. What is particularly striking is that even in situations where cooperation with others is essential, the egoism of "scoring the goal myself" is ultimately required.

This competition is not just unique to the world of soccer, but also overlaps with the competitive principles of modern society. In business, sports, and even everyday life, there are many situations where you need the ability to push others aside to increase your own value. The world depicted in "Blue Lock" realistically depicts the harshness of this competition.

The positive power of the ego

Egoism may seem negative at first glance, but in "Blue Lock" it is portrayed as a positive force. It is about maximizing the potential of each individual and winning through one's own efforts without relying on others. Characters such as Ito Shi Rin and Nagi Seishiro hone their egos, but also learn how to calmly assess the situation and play their role in winning.

They demonstrate not just selfish behavior, but the ego control needed to lead the whole team to victory. This balance is the key to creating the greatest forwards.

summary

The "aesthetics of ego" depicted in "Blue Lock" is a unique perspective that depicts the competitive principles of modern society and the growth of individuals through the sport of soccer. To seize victory, one must have the strength to follow one's own path without being swayed by others. This egoism is by no means evil, but can be a driving force for believing in oneself and going beyond one's limits. The stories of ego and growth shown by the characters in Blue Lock will give us the strength to believe in our own potential.

References

• "Blue Lock" anime official website