Okay, so I totally just stumbled upon this yuri manga on Pinterest, and let me tell you—I was hooked the moment I saw one of its covers! Two older women as the main couple? That was a first for me! Most yuri stories I’ve read tend to focus on high school girls or young adults, so seeing a story centered around women who have already lived through a good chunk of life? Yeah, I •needed• to read this. And even though the English translation is still ongoing, I jumped right in without hesitation!
And so far? I am loving it. It starts off light and sweet, but as the story progresses, it becomes clear that the author isn’t just here to give us a fluffy romance between two mature women—there’s some serious social commentary happening.
Mangaka schwinn’s Hanamonogatari touches on topics like misogyny, gender inequality, and homophobia, and it does so in a way that feels raw and real. It is equally insightful and inspiring.
One thing that really stands out to me, so far, is how the story depicts the struggles of older generations of women, especially through Hanayo-san’s experiences. The way the patriarchy has been gaslighting women into believing that their “only” path in life was to become wives and mothers? That motherhood and homemaking were the ultimate achievements they should aspire to? Yeah, I thought schwinn lays that out pretty well. It’s frustrating to read because it’s so true, but that’s what makes it so compelling.
Honestly, I’m so invested in where this story is going! The mangaka’s storytelling is on point, and I’m eagerly waiting for the English release of Volumes 2 and 3. I can’t wait to see how Hanayo-san and her love interest will navigate their budding friendship and romance in a society that wasn’t built to accept them.
More stories like this, please! Like seriously! 🥹🤧