Kaneki’s catchphrase, “Human relationships are chemical reactions. If you have a reaction, then you can never return back to your previous state of being,” is a profound statement that encapsulates the complexity and transformative nature of human connections. It highlights the idea that once we experience a significant encounter or interaction with someone, we are forever changed.
To understand the catchphrase fully, let’s break it down. Kaneki compares human relationships to chemical reactions, suggesting that just as chemicals combine and create new compounds, our interactions with others can lead to profound changes within ourselves. This analogy emphasizes the transformative power of relationships and how they shape our identities and perspectives.
The statement also emphasizes that once we experience a reaction with someone, we can never return to our previous state of being. This implies that every meaningful connection we forge has a lasting impact on us. It implies that the effects of these relationships are irreversible and shape who we become.
In the context of Kaneki’s character, this catchphrase holds significant weight. Kaneki Ken, the protagonist of the manga and anime series “Tokyo Ghoul,” undergoes a transformation both physically and mentally after a traumatic event. He becomes a half-human, half-ghoul hybrid, which alters his perception of the world and his place in it.
Throughout the series, Kaneki forms various relationships with both humans and ghouls. Each interaction he has, whether positive or negative, leaves a lasting impact on him, further reinforcing the idea that human relationships are like chemical reactions. These connections force him to confront his own identity, values, and beliefs, ultimately leading to his personal growth and evolution.
The catchphrase also reflects a moral stance that Kaneki holds. He believes that it is better to be hurt than to hurt others. This sentiment aligns with his empathetic nature and his desire to protect and understand others. It represents his commitment to preserving the bonds he forms, even if it means enduring pain or sacrifice.
Kaneki’s catchphrase, “Human relationships are chemical reactions. If you have a reaction, then you can never return back to your previous state of being,” encapsulates the transformative power of connections and the irreversible impact they have on our lives. It reflects Kaneki’s personal growth and his moral stance of valuing the well-being of others over his own.