What Positive Significance Does Nobita's Underachiever Setting Have for Readers and Audiences in Reality?
Ah, this question hits the nail on the head! Many people watching Doraemon as kids probably thought Nobita was foolish and lazy. But looking back as adults, we realize that this "underdog" setup is actually the most profound and heartwarming aspect of the entire story. It holds very positive significance for us, the real-world readers and viewers.
Simply put, it can be broken down into the following aspects:
1. Strong Relatability and Emotional Resonance
Think about it, who is perfect in real life?
- Haven't we all felt down after failing an exam?
- Haven't we been teased by classmates for being bad at sports?
- Don't we also want to slack off sometimes and nap a little longer?
- Haven't we envied those "seemingly perfect kids" (like Dekisugi)?
Nobita embodies almost all the little flaws of us ordinary people: laziness, cowardice, poor grades, lack of confidence. Precisely because he is so "imperfect," each of us can see a bit of ourselves in him.
This relatability makes us feel, "Ah, so it's not just me." This feeling of being understood is, in itself, a huge comfort. Watching Nobita's story is like watching a less accomplished version of ourselves. We cry with him, laugh with him, and eagerly anticipate what gadget Doraemon will pull out of his pocket to solve the problem.
2. Provides Significant Psychological Comfort and an Emotional Outlet
In an increasingly hyper-competitive society, everyone is pressured to be stronger, better, and more successful. This pressure is immense.
Nobita's existence, however, stands as an "anti-success" symbol. He tells us: "Even if you're not number one, even if you have many flaws, you are still worthy of love and still have the right to happiness and miracles."
Watching Nobita's story allows our tense nerves to relax. He acts as an emotional outlet, letting us know that "imperfection" is allowed. This psychological "decompression" effect is highly beneficial for mental and physical well-being.
3. Highlights the Genuine Strengths in Ordinary People
This is perhaps the core value of Nobita's character.
Precisely because he's an underdog in "hard metrics" like academics and sports, his more precious qualities shine even brighter:
- Kindness: He is genuinely kind-hearted. He feels sincere sadness for a stray cat or a tree about to be cut down and is willing to make an effort for them. This respect and compassion for life are qualities many "successful" people may lack.
- Sense of Justice: Though usually timid, in the feature films (theatrical releases), when friends or the world are in crisis, Nobita always manages to summon astonishing courage and determination, becoming the one who steps forward.
- Cherishing Friendship: His feelings for Doraemon and his friends are sincere. He might often cause trouble, but he deeply values these companions.
Through Nobita, author Fujiko F. Fujio tells us: A person's worth should not be measured solely by grades or abilities. Inner virtues like kindness, honesty, compassion, and a sense of justice are far more important.
4. Embodies "Possibility" and "Hope"
If the protagonist were a genius like Dekisugi, the story of Doraemon might be far less compelling. If a genius could solve problems alone, what need would there be for magical gadgets?
It is precisely because the protagonist is an "underdog" like Nobita that Doraemon's existence gains its greatest meaning. Doraemon's arrival symbolizes "possibility" and "hope." It tells us:
Even someone starting from a very low point like Nobita, with the help of friends and his own efforts (though often fleeting bursts of effort), can change the future and find happiness.
This setup provides countless children (and even adults) who feel insecure and helpless in reality, just like Nobita, with a vessel for their dreams. It doesn't tell you to give up and wait for miracles; it tells you not to abandon hope, that the future can be better.
To Summarize
Put simply, Nobita the "underdog" is actually an embodiment of every ordinary person.
He allows us to effortlessly relate to the story, gaining emotional resonance and psychological comfort. At the same time, he acts like a mirror, reflecting the truly beautiful virtues we should pursue deep within ourselves – his kindness and his courage in critical moments.
He is not a hero to be looked up to, but an imperfect friend who grew up alongside us. Perhaps the most important lesson he teaches us is: You don't have to be perfect, but you must be kind. This, in any era, is an incredibly precious and positive value.