Originally published at: 35-Year-Old Navigates Life's What-Ifs Around Finding Love and Letting Go - People of Con
Author: Jessie Duncan
Confessions of a 35-Year-Old is a single-volume, slice-of-life drama that centers on the life of 35-year-old Junren Liu, also known as Jason, a Virgo navigating the complexities of being single and reflecting on a past unaccepted confession from a male junior in college. Since then, he has seen his junior move on and flaunt his new relationship on social media, leading Jason to wonder about the ‘what ifs.’ His life turns when he meets Qianfan Ye, known as Frank, a 28-year-old new addition to the IT department. Encouraged by a co-worker, they start living together, prompting Jason to reflect on past regrets, societal and familial expectations, the prospect of spending life with someone, and the concept of love. As his 36th birthday approaches, Jason faces decisions about what he truly wants in life and how he wishes to pursue it.
This manga delivers a touching narrative on letting go of societal expectations to forge your path to happiness. At a pivotal moment in his life, Jason embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning from past mistakes, and embracing vulnerability. The artistry in the manga effectively sets the mood for self-reflection and intimate conversations, with a pacing that allows the story to unfold naturally. I found this reflective tale highly enjoyable, deserving of an 8.5/10. It’s particularly appealing to fans of slice-of-life dramas who favor a deeper, more introspective look into the characters’ lives.
The artistry is notably impactful, capturing the story’s introspective nature and emotional atmosphere, making it an excellent fit for this type of narrative. However, the translation transition from Taiwanese to English could be smoother, with certain sections needing better clarity to enhance the overall reading experience. Despite this, the manga’s storytelling and visual representation strengths shine through, offering a fresh perspective within the BL genre with its mature character analysis and reflective depth.
The story’s introspective quality, enriched by the characters’ mature age and reflective journey, offers a refreshing divergence from typical narratives in the genre. Drawing inspiration from real-life events, including those experienced during the pandemic, it eloquently addresses themes of life’s unpredictability and making the most of unforeseen circumstances. This aspect, coupled with the thoughtful exploration of life choices and personal growth, rates it between an 8.5 and 9 out of 10 for me, appealing to readers searching for a story with depth and reflection.
Jason’s journey not only navigates the complexities of relationships and societal expectations but also delves into the nuances of mental health. Reflecting on unspoken regrets and the courage to embrace new beginnings, the story prompts us to consider our mental health amidst life’s unpredictability. How often do we allow societal norms to dictate our happiness? Are we truly listening to our desires, or are we too afraid of stepping out of our comfort zones? This narrative encourages us to reflect on our mental health and the importance of self-care and understanding in our pursuit of love and fulfillment.
Additionally, this manga is part of a significant initiative by Media Do Co, Ltd., Japan’s largest ebook distributor, in partnership with TAICCA, aiming to introduce Taiwanese creative content to English and Japanese audiences. Launched on February 6, 2024, this initiative, featuring titles like Confessions of a 35-Year-Old, represents a pivotal movement in making diverse narratives accessible globally, enhancing the digital comics ecosystem on major platforms.
Feeling inspired by Jason’s story of love, regret, and self-discovery? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below or on social media. How do you relate to Jason’s journey, and what steps are you taking towards your path of self-acceptance and happiness? Let’s open up the conversation about the impact of societal expectations on our mental health and the importance of carving out our paths.