The epic story of ‘One Piece‘, created by the renowned mangaka Eiichiro Odais known for its deeply constructed characters and narrative that leaves no loose ends.
Among the elements that highlight the plot, one peculiarity has caught the attention of fans: the recurrence of the death of mothers in the characters’ flashbacks.
Eiichiro Oda explains the sad issue of ‘One Piece’
Deaths are recurrent in the work, and Eiichiro Oda explained why – Image: Anime Rant/Toei/Reproduction
Oda’s attention to detail in building the world of ‘One Piece’ is clear in the frequent flashbacks that accompany the story.
These moments offer in-depth insights into the characters’ backstories and motivations, adding to the complexity of the plot from the very first chapters.
However, one peculiarity stands out: the constant presence of maternal death in these retrospective episodes.
Since the beginning of the saga, this pattern has repeated itself, exemplified by the loss of Usopp’s mother in Syrup Village.
This recurrence, even becoming a kind of joke among fans, reveals itself as a consistent element in the construction of the universe of ‘One Piece‘.
Chapter 1098 and Kuma’s flashback
Chapter 1098 offers yet another example of this trend during Kuma’s flashback.
The story reveals the trajectory of Ginny, who, after joining the Revolutionary Army, finds her happiness interrupted when she is captured and enslaved by the World Government.
Two years of slavery in Mariejois led to Ginny’s unexpected release due to a mysterious and incurable illness.
However, by the time she was rescued by Kuma, she had already succumbed to the disease, leaving behind a baby, Bonney, destined for the same tragic fate.
Ginny was the last mother to be killed in the work so far – Image: Eiichiro Oda/Reproduction
In an interview with SBS, Oda reveals the reason behind this recurrence: a practical approach within the narrative.
By eliminating maternal figures in the flashbacks, the mangaka exposes its characters to the adversities of the world, forcing them to mature and adapt.
This absence of protective figures drives the protagonists to face challenges and pursue their dreams independently.
Despite the humorous tone that the fan community gave to the curse of the mother In ‘One Piece’, Oda’s interview sheds light on the deeper reasons behind this pattern.
The introduction of a mother in a flashback not only foreshadows an impending death, but serves as a catalyst for the characters’ growth and journey of self-discovery.
Oda’s narrative peculiarity in ‘One Piece‘ transcends the simplicity of the curse of the mother and reveals an intricate narrative strategy, contributing to the richness and emotional depth of the work that captivates fans around the world.
