At the end of the Dark Era, Oda fought and ended up defeating Mimic at the cost of his own life. Shortly after this fight, Dazai arrived and managed to speak with his friend briefly before his death. It was then that Oda gave Dazai very valuable advice. I’ll elaborate below.
First Oda brought up something Dazai had once told him. That is that Dazai had joined the Port Mafia in search of a reason to live. Dazai hoped he could find something by putting himself in a cruel violent world and thus seeing true human nature. But in the end, he couldn’t find anything. At this point, Dazai had been in the mafia for three years. If he couldn’t even find a reason to live there, then where would he? Oda understood this about Dazai. He literally said Dazai would wander the darkness for eternity. Through these words, Dazai realized that Oda understood him in a way no one else ever had. Though Oda still didn’t fully comprehend him, he grasped something close to Dazai’s core. Therefore Dazai asked Oda what he should do with his life, hoping maybe Oda would offer him a different perspective. This is exactly what ended up happening.
Oda told Dazai:
“Be on the side that saves people. If both sides are the same, then choose to become a good person. Save the weak, protect the orphaned. You might not see a great difference between right and wrong, but...saving others is something just a bit more wonderful.”
This advice is valuable because of its nature. Oda told him to be on the good side and to save people. This isn’t a one-time goal you simply achieve. It's something you have to continuously pursue and maintain, an ongoing commitment. This is what it means to live with morals. Oda didn’t direct him to a reason to live, but instead to a way to live. That’s why it's meaningful, specifically for someone like Dazai, even though it doesn’t resolve his inner lack of meaning.
Dazai agreed to Oda's words by saying “Okay, I will." Some people view Dazai’s current behavior as keeping his promise to his friend. I don't think solely calling it a 'promise' is accurate at all. Dazai isn't following Oda's advice just to honor his final words. He does because he knows that what Oda said is true, about him not ever going to find something grand as a reason to live. Alongside this, Dazai acknowledged that his friend’s words were not empty words. He knew Oda’s advice was rooted in his own person and experiences. As you know, Oda used to be a hit man long before his time in the mafia. After he had quit that job, he refused to kill again. This decision stemmed from his wish to become a novelist. Oda believed that if he wanted to write lives, he should cease taking them. Dazai recognized the weight of Oda’s words here.
In the end, it's only Dazai himself who chooses his actions. He decided to quit the Port Mafia and instead join the Armed Detective Agency. Oda’s words guided him towards a way of life, not a reason, by holding on to morals. These morals became a framework he could build his life around. That’s how the Dazai we know today came to be.
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something I feel like people miss while reading stormbringer is this line from the second chapter when Dazai and Verlaine met:
'Nevertheless, Dazai continued to slaughter his enemies and serve the Port Mafia in order to force himself into an even darker place.'
So, "why does Dazai stay in the mafia for so long?"
Because he wants to be in a bad place. He wants to commit these atrocities to further dehumanise himself. He wants to alienate himself and is determined to convince both himself and everyone around him that he is a terrible thing, the 'black wraith of the Port Mafia' who had no empathy or sense of humanity.
That's why he stays in the Mafia, that's why he works so hard in the Mafia, that's why he does what he's told. He's an automated killing machine capable of planning out and causing mass destruction, and his fuel is self-hatred.
He doesn't take pride in his 'accomplishments' in the mafia because, again, he doesn't actually want to succeed in the mafia, he wants to prove he's a bad person. He's not in the mafia to try and find a reason to live anymore, his reason for that is Chuuya, he's realised he's not going to find it in the mafia, even if he's not going to admit it until the dark era.
He probably feels a sense of guilt and disgust, but refuses to acknowledge it because he thinks that as something inhuman, he isn't meant to feel things like that, and the more he does, the further he removes himself from any sense of remorse, until he doesn't feel it any more, and probably still hasn't processed even in the ADA.
He stays in the mafia, and does the things he's told with such accuracy and deadliness because he thinks it's the only thing he can do, and he can use it to prove he's no longer human.
So, I’m not sure how many are aware of what MBTI is, but I got a few requests on making an analysis about this for BSD MEN and incorporating their ideal type! darlings’ MBTI types as well, so I did. (I kind of promised that I would do it, so now is the time.)❤️
I want you to know, it wasn’t intentional to place one type as the ideal match for multiple characters. I thought it through thoroughly and did my best to remain as logical and diverse in MBTI types as possible. It’s just that strong Fe users are often a good match for broken people and…well…BSD men are mostly broken.
Here is a brief explanation what MBTI and cognitive functions are, for those who are not familiar with it. If you are familiar with it, you can simply skip to the next paragraph under the thinner cut.❤️
Explanation MBTI: The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a tool used to understand different personality types based on how people prefer to interact with the world and make decisions. Created by Isabel Briggs Myers and Katharine Cook Briggs, it’s based on ideas from Carl Jung about how people think and behave. MBTI types are 16 four-letter combinations such as INFP or ESTP, that are designed with each 4 primary cognitive functions that are being used frequently by each person. There are 8 cognitive functions, and we all use all of them, however, 4 are always the most comfortable and prominent.
Detailed Explanation of Cognitive Functions: Cognitive functions are specific mental processes that shape how we understand and interact with the world. Each function has a particular role and works in conjunction with others to influence personality. Here’s a closer look at each of the eight cognitive functions:
1. Extraverted Sensing (Se): This function involves focusing on the present moment and taking in information through the senses. People who rely on Se are very aware of their surroundings and enjoy engaging with their environment actively. They tend to live in the moment and respond to immediate sensory experiences.
2. Introverted Sensing (Si): Si involves recalling past experiences and using that information to understand the present. People with strong Si focus on details and how things have been done before. They rely on their memories and internal impressions to make sense of the world.
3. Extraverted Intuition (Ne): Ne is about exploring possibilities and seeing connections between different ideas. Those who use Ne are good at brainstorming and considering multiple potential outcomes. They enjoy thinking about future possibilities and spotting patterns that aren’t immediately obvious.
4. Introverted Intuition (Ni): Ni involves forming insights and understanding future implications based on internal reflections. People with dominant Ni often have a clear vision of how things might unfold and focus on long-term outcomes and deep, conceptual understandings.
5. Extraverted Thinking (Te): This function focuses on organizing and structuring the external world based on logic and efficiency. People who use Te prioritize objective criteria and practical solutions, often seeking to improve systems and achieve measurable results.
6. Introverted Thinking (Ti): Ti involves analyzing and refining ideas based on internal logic. Individuals with strong Ti prefer to understand concepts deeply and develop their own internal frameworks for how things should work. They value precision and consistency in their thoughts.
7. Extraverted Feeling (Fe): Fe is concerned with understanding and responding to the emotions and needs of others. People with strong Fe are focused on creating harmony in their social environments and are sensitive to the feelings of those around them. They often work to ensure that everyone’s needs are met and that social interactions are smooth.
8. Introverted Feeling (Fi): Fi involves making decisions based on personal values and internal emotional responses. Those with dominant Fi focus on staying true to their own principles and beliefs. They prioritize authenticity and personal integrity, making choices that align with their internal values.
Each MBTI personality type has a specific hierarchy of these functions. The dominant function is the primary way a person interacts with the world, while the auxiliary function supports it. The tertiary function is less developed, and the inferior function is the least developed and often a source of stress or growth.
FYODOR DOSTOEVSKY
INTJ (The Mastermind/Architect) - Ni > Te > Fi > Se
Fyodor's dominant function, Introverted Intuition (Ni), reveals itself in his visionary, long-term thinking and his deep strategic foresight. Fyodor operates on a plane that transcends the immediate and the obvious.
He sees patterns, connections, and the potential outcomes of his actions far into the future, often perceiving the world in ways that others simply cannot comprehend.
His overarching goal—to cleanse humanity of its sins—demonstrates a profound understanding of abstract concepts and an almost prophetic ability to see beyond the present, traits quintessential to a dominant Ni user.
Next, we have Extroverted Thinking (Te), Fyodor's auxiliary function, which he employs with ruthless efficiency. His actions are driven by a need to impose order and structure on the chaotic world around him, aligning perfectly with Te's desire for effectiveness and productivity.
Fyodor’s methods, while morally ambiguous, are meticulously planned and executed with precision. This function supports his Ni visions, allowing him to implement his grand schemes with logical, calculated steps.
His ability to manipulate people and situations to his advantage is a direct result of Te’s influence, prioritizing objective outcomes over personal feelings.
His tertiary function, Introverted Feeling (Fi), is less overt but still crucial to understanding his character.
While Fyodor presents a cold, calculating exterior, his actions are ultimately guided by an internal value system—no matter how warped it might seem.
Fyodor's Fi manifests in his unwavering belief in his mission and his disdain for those who fail to meet his moral standards. He perceives himself as a savior of humanity, driven by an intrinsic sense of right and wrong that only he truly understands.
This Fi also explains why Fyodor is so selective about who he allows into his inner world. A potential darling, for instance, would need to align with his deeply held values, reinforcing the notion that Fyodor’s emotional connections are reserved for those who resonate with his internal compass.
Lastly, Fyodor’s inferior function, Extroverted Sensing (Se), is the least developed, manifesting in his apparent disconnection from the physical world.
Unlike characters who thrive on sensory experiences, Fyodor often appears aloof and detached from his surroundings. His focus on abstract ideas over tangible realities suggests a discomfort with Se.
He surrounds himself with serene and controlled environments—places where sensory overload is minimized, and he can concentrate on his internal visions. This discomfort with the physical world further isolates him, reinforcing his preference for solitude and reflection.
In conclusion, Fyodor embodies the traits of an INTJ through his dominant Ni, which allows him to see far-reaching possibilities and plan accordingly; his auxiliary Te, which drives his strategic actions and manipulations; his tertiary Fi, which shapes his personal values and judgments; and his inferior Se, which leads to a disconnect from the immediate physical world.
These cognitive functions, taken together, explain his complex and morally ambiguous character, as well as his potential preferences in a partner—someone who would understand and complement his internal world without disrupting the carefully constructed order he seeks to maintain.
His darling: INFP - Fi > Ne > Si > Te
or INFJ - Ni > Fe > Ti > Se
INFP (The Mediator / Idealist):
In the intricate labyrinth of Fyodor’s mind, where Introverted Intuition (Ni) reigns supreme (this sounds so serious lmao), an INFP female darling would offer an unparalleled balance and harmony.
Her dominant function, Introverted Feeling (Fi), would resonate deeply with Fyodor's own Fi, albeit in a more developed and nuanced form.
While Fyodor’s Fi is selective, almost reclusive, it is this very selectiveness that makes an INFP’s Fi the perfect match. She possesses an intrinsic moral compass, one that is authentic and unwavering, but unlike Fyodor’s, it is deeply empathetic.
Her Fi would draw out the softer, more vulnerable aspects of his tertiary Fi, helping to humanize the rigid internal values that guide his every move.
The INFP’s Extroverted Intuition (Ne), her auxiliary function, would offer Fyodor something he might not even realize he craves—a partner who can perceive multiple possibilities and ideas without being constrained by rigid logic or efficiency.
Her Ne would inject a sense of wonder and exploration into Fyodor’s meticulously controlled world. Unlike the ruthless precision of his Te, her Ne is imaginative, often seeing potential in areas Fyodor’s Ni might overlook (seriously, this man would NEVER overlook anything but let’s stick to that for the narrative).
This openness to possibility would challenge Fyodor, gently encouraging him to see beyond his single-minded visions, adding layers of depth to his already profound insights.
Furthermore, the INFP’s Introverted Sensing (Si) as a tertiary function would provide a subtle, yet grounding influence on Fyodor.
While Fyodor’s inferior Se leaves him disconnected from the physical world, the INFP’s Si, though not dominant, would allow her to appreciate the simple, sensory experiences of life.
She could offer Fyodor a gentle introduction to these experiences, helping him connect, even briefly, with the present moment. Her Si would serve as a quiet anchor, providing stability without overwhelming his discomfort with Se.
Lastly, her Extroverted Thinking (Te) as an inferior function would ensure that while she respects Fyodor’s logical and structured approach, she would not challenge his authority or disrupt the order he values so highly. Instead, her Te would emerge in moments when practicality is required, complementing Fyodor’s own Te without competing with it.
This would create a dynamic where she supports his strategies and plans, but with a gentle touch that allows his Te to dominate, thus preserving the balance of power in the relationship.
In conclusion, an INFP female darling would not only complement Fyodor’s complex INTJ personality but would also provide a much-needed counterbalance to his intensity.
Her Fi would resonate with his, but with a warmth and empathy that could soften his cold, calculating exterior. Her Ne would challenge and expand his Ni, offering new perspectives and possibilities.
Her Si would ground him, even if only slightly, in the present moment, while her inferior Te would respect and subtly support his strategic dominance.
Together, they would form a partnership where his visionary goals are met with understanding, warmth, and a touch of whimsy—qualities that, in the end, may be precisely what Fyodor needs, even if he cannot fully articulate it.
INFJ (The Advocate/Counselor):
An INFJ female darling would be the second-best match for Fyodor, harmonizing with his complex, enigmatic nature while still offering a dynamic that enriches his inner world.
As an INFJ, her dominant function, Introverted Intuition (Ni), aligns perfectly with Fyodor's own Ni, creating a profound connection rooted in their shared ability to perceive the world through abstract, visionary lenses.
This mutual understanding of the intangible and the hidden would foster a relationship where both partners feel deeply understood, even in their most esoteric thoughts. Fyodor, who often finds himself isolated in his strategic foresight, would find in the INFJ a partner who not only comprehends but complements his intuitive depth.
Her Extroverted Feeling (Fe) as an auxiliary function introduces a crucial element of emotional intelligence that Fyodor lacks. While Fyodor’s tertiary Introverted Feeling (Fi) shapes his internal value system, it is often cold, detached, and selectively applied.
The INFJ’s Fe, however, is outwardly focused, naturally attuned to the emotions and needs of others. This function would provide Fyodor with a compassionate, empathetic counterpart who can navigate social dynamics and offer a broader perspective on human emotions—something his Te might dismiss as irrelevant.
The INFJ's Fe would soften Fyodor’s rigid moral judgments, gently encouraging him to consider the emotional consequences of his actions, thereby broadening his understanding of the world beyond his own internal values.
Moreover, the INFJ's Introverted Thinking (Ti), her tertiary function, would subtly complement Fyodor's auxiliary Te. While her Ti is less overt, it allows her to engage in deep, reflective thinking, often uncovering logical inconsistencies or hidden truths in complex situations.
Her Ti would not threaten his Te-driven need for control and order but would instead offer a nuanced, thoughtful perspective that Fyodor could appreciate, particularly when his Ni-driven visions require careful refinement.
This quiet analytical ability would appeal to Fyodor's Te, creating moments of intellectual synergy where both can engage in strategic planning and problem-solving.
Lastly, the INFJ's Extroverted Sensing (Se) as an inferior function mirrors Fyodor's own inferior Se, establishing a shared discomfort with the immediate, sensory world.
This mutual weakness might initially seem like a drawback, but it would actually deepen their bond. Both partners would understand and respect each other's preference for controlled, serene environments, where they can retreat from the overwhelming demands of the physical world.
Their shared Se would reinforce their tendency towards introspection and visionary thinking, ensuring that their relationship remains focused on the abstract, the intellectual, and the strategic.
In conclusion, an INFJ female darling offers Fyodor a harmonious blend of shared intuitive depth and complementary emotional intelligence.
Her Ni resonates with his, creating a deep, almost mystical connection, while her Fe introduces warmth and empathy into his otherwise cold, calculated world.
Her Ti supports and refines his Te-driven plans without challenging his authority, and their shared inferior Se creates a mutual understanding of their need for isolation from the sensory overload of the external world.
While an INFP might provide a softer, more whimsical counterbalance, the INFJ offers a partnership rooted in shared vision and mutual understanding, making her the second-best match for Fyodor's complex, INTJ personality.
DAZAI OSAMU
ENTP (The Debater / Visionary) - Ne > Ti > Fe > Si
Dazai’s dominant function, Extraverted Intuition (Ne), reveals itself in his constant exploration of possibilities and his ability to see multiple angles in any situation.
Dazai operates in a world of endless potential, always considering what could be rather than what is. This makes him unpredictable and difficult to pin down, as he is always a step ahead, contemplating outcomes and scenarios that others might overlook.
His strategic brilliance is a direct result of his Ne, allowing him to manipulate events and people with a creativity that is unmatched.
Dazai’s love for chaos and his playful, almost mischievous nature also stem from this dominant function, as he thrives in environments where he can test boundaries and explore new ideas.
Next, we have Introverted Thinking (Ti), Dazai’s auxiliary function, which he uses to analyze situations with a cold, logical precision.
Ti drives Dazai to understand the underlying mechanics of the world around him, breaking down complex problems into their fundamental components. This function is what gives Dazai his sharp, analytical mind, allowing him to devise intricate plans and see through the facades of others.
His Ti also explains his philosophical musings and existential questioning, as he is constantly trying to make sense of the world and his place in it. Despite his often lighthearted demeanor, there is a deeply intellectual side to Dazai that is always at work, dissecting and evaluating everything he encounters.
His tertiary function, Extraverted Feeling (Fe), is less prominent but still plays a crucial role in how Dazai interacts with others. While he often comes across as detached, Dazai is acutely aware of social dynamics and the emotions of those around him.
He uses this awareness to his advantage, charming or manipulating others as the situation requires. Fe allows Dazai to adapt to different social environments effortlessly, making him a social chameleon who can navigate complex interpersonal relationships with ease.
However, this function also reveals a more manipulative side to Dazai, as he tends to use his understanding of emotions not to connect with others, but to influence and control them.
Lastly, Dazai’s inferior function, Introverted Sensing (Si), is the least developed, manifesting in his apparent disconnection from tradition and the past.
Unlike characters who draw strength from their memories or rely on established routines, Dazai is often seen rejecting or ignoring these aspects of life.
His Si deficiency is evident in his restless nature and his constant search for new experiences, as he struggles to find meaning or stability in what has already been.
This disconnect from Si also contributes to his existential despair, as he finds it difficult to ground himself in any lasting sense of identity or purpose.
In conclusion, Dazai embodies the traits of an ENTP through his dominant Ne, which fuels his endless curiosity and strategic foresight; his auxiliary Ti, which sharpens his analytical thinking; his tertiary Fe, which he uses to navigate and manipulate social interactions; and his inferior Si, which leads to a sense of disconnection from tradition and the past.
These cognitive functions, taken together, explain his complex and often contradictory character, as well as his tendency to oscillate between playful banter and deep existential reflection.
His darling: INFJ - Ni > Fe > Ti > Se
Or ENFJ - Fe > Ni > Se > Ti
INFJ (The Advocate/Counselor):
For Dazai, an INFJ female darling would be the ideal match, complementing and balancing his complex, multifaceted ENTP nature.
Dazai’s dominant Extraverted Intuition (Ne) thrives on possibilities, unpredictability, and the exploration of various outcomes, often leading him into chaotic and uncharted territories. An INFJ’s dominant function, Introverted Intuition (Ni), would resonate with Dazai’s Ne, but in a way that brings focus and depth to his endless curiosity.
While Dazai’s Ne scatters in multiple directions, the INFJ’s Ni would help him see the underlying patterns and deeper meaning behind his explorations, guiding his often chaotic energy into more purposeful and profound insights.
Her Ni would provide a sense of direction that Dazai’s Ne sometimes lacks, allowing them to explore the abstract and conceptual together, but with a shared vision rather than aimless wandering.
Her Extroverted Feeling (Fe) as an auxiliary function would offer a crucial emotional anchor for Dazai, whose Extraverted Feeling (Fe), while present, is often used more for manipulation than genuine connection.
The INFJ’s Fe, however, is deeply empathetic, focused on creating harmony and understanding in her relationships. This emotional intelligence would be a soothing balm to Dazai’s restless soul, providing the warmth and connection he often deflects with humor or detachment.
Her Fe would help Dazai engage with his own emotions more honestly, encouraging him to forge deeper, more meaningful relationships rather than merely skimming the surface.
This would be especially significant for Dazai, whose tertiary Fe can sometimes lead him to feel disconnected from others despite his ability to read social dynamics effortlessly.
The INFJ’s Introverted Thinking (Ti), as her tertiary function, would complement Dazai’s auxiliary Ti, creating an intellectual synergy that both would appreciate.
While Dazai uses his Ti to deconstruct the world around him with sharp, analytical precision, the INFJ’s Ti would offer a quieter, more introspective form of analysis.
Her Ti would challenge Dazai’s sometimes impulsive leaps of logic, encouraging him to consider the ethical and philosophical implications of his actions more deeply. Together, their combined Ti would lead to rich, intellectual conversations, where they can explore complex ideas and theories, each offering a perspective that sharpens the other’s understanding.
Lastly, the INFJ’s Extroverted Sensing (Se), though her inferior function, would mirror Dazai’s own inferior Introverted Sensing (Si) in a way that fosters mutual understanding and growth.
Both struggle with staying grounded in the present moment and often feel disconnected from the physical world or their own past.
However, this shared deficiency would allow them to support one another, finding solace in their mutual discomfort.
The INFJ’s Se might encourage Dazai to occasionally step out of his head and experience the world more fully, while Dazai’s Ne could help the INFJ see the potential beyond what is immediately tangible.
Together, they would create a partnership that balances the abstract with the concrete, allowing them to explore both the potential of the future and the reality of the present.
In conclusion, an INFJ female darling would not only complement Dazai’s ENTP nature but also provide the emotional depth, intellectual stimulation, and intuitive insight that he often seeks but struggles to find.
Her Ni would bring focus to his Ne, her Fe would offer genuine emotional connection where his Fe might falter, her Ti would refine his analytical thinking, and their shared challenges with Se and Si would foster a deep understanding of each other’s struggles.
This relationship would offer Dazai a rare blend of intellectual challenge and emotional support, making the INFJ the best possible partner for his complex and often contradictory character.
ENFJ (The Protagonist / Teacher):
An ENFJ female darling would be the second-best match for Dazai Osamu, providing a relationship dynamic that complements and balances his ENTP nature in several key ways.
Dazai’s dominant Extraverted Intuition (Ne) fuels his exploration of possibilities and his knack for seeing multiple angles of any situation. An ENFJ’s dominant Extraverted Feeling (Fe) would harmonize with Dazai’s Ne, but in a manner that emphasizes emotional connection and social harmony.
The ENFJ’s Fe is adept at understanding and influencing others’ emotions, which would provide Dazai with a stabilizing force, guiding his often chaotic and unpredictable Ne through a lens of empathy and relational awareness. Her Fe would help Dazai see beyond his own intellectual pursuits and appreciate the emotional impact of his actions on those around him.
The ENFJ’s Introverted Intuition (Ni) as her auxiliary function complements Dazai’s Ne by providing depth and focus to their shared explorations.
While Dazai’s Ne leads him to constantly generate new ideas and scenarios, the ENFJ’s Ni would help in distilling these possibilities into a coherent vision. This alignment between Ne and Ni would create a synergy where their ideas are not just imaginative but also strategically meaningful.
The ENFJ’s Extraverted Sensing (Se) as her tertiary function brings a practical, immediate awareness that contrasts with Dazai’s own inferior Introverted Sensing (Si).
While Dazai often struggles with connecting to the present moment and the sensory details of life, the ENFJ’s Se would offer a grounding influence.
Her ability to engage with the external environment would provide a counterbalance to Dazai’s tendency to overlook sensory experiences and tradition. This could help Dazai become more attuned to the here-and-now, enriching his experiences and providing a more balanced perspective on life.
Finally, the ENFJ’s Introverted Thinking (Ti), her inferior function, would offer a unique intellectual counterpoint to Dazai’s dominant Ti.
While Dazai’s Ti is sharp and analytical, often used to dissect and strategize, the ENFJ’s Ti, though less developed, would bring a different flavor of logical analysis.
Her Ti would provide a thoughtful, albeit less dominant, approach to problem-solving, complementing Dazai’s more assertive analytical style. This could lead to rich, nuanced discussions where her perspective enhances his own.
In summary, an ENFJ darling would offer Dazai a blend of emotional depth, strategic insight, and practical grounding.
Her dominant Fe would foster genuine emotional connections and help Dazai consider the social and emotional ramifications of his actions.
Her Ni would add depth and direction to his Ne-driven explorations, making their intellectual pursuits more coherent.
Her Se would ground him in the present, counterbalancing his detachment from sensory experiences, while her Ti would complement and refine his analytical approaches.
Together, they would form a partnership where Dazai’s intellectual brilliance is balanced by the ENFJ’s warmth, vision, and practical insight, making her an excellent second-best match for his dynamic ENTP personality.
In conclusion, an INFJ would offer Dazai deep emotional understanding and intuitive focus, complementing his Ne with depth and introspection.
In contrast, an ENFJ would provide vibrant emotional support and practical grounding, balancing his Ne with empathy and vision while offering immediate sensory awareness.
Both types would enrich Dazai’s life, with the INFJ providing profound, intuitive insight and the ENFJ offering dynamic emotional connection and practical stability.
NAKAHARA CHUUYA
ESTP ( The Entrepreneur / Dynamo) - Se > Ti > Fe > Ni
Chuuya is a character who clearly exemplifies the ESTP personality type. His energetic demeanor, tactical mindset, and grounded approach to life can be understood through the lens of this personality type, revealing a man who thrives on action, pragmatic problem-solving, and sensory experiences.
At the forefront of Chuuya’s character is his dominant function, Extraverted Sensing (Se). This function drives Chuuya’s immediate, action-oriented approach to life. He is intensely aware of his surroundings, reacting quickly to changes and seizing opportunities as they arise.
Chuuya’s preference for hands-on engagement and his readiness to dive into action reflect his high Se, which is evident in his frequent physical confrontations and his ability to handle high-pressure situations with remarkable composure.
His keen sense of fashion is also a manifestation of his Se—his attention to stylish, elegant attire and personal presentation highlights his acute awareness of his environment and his desire to make a tangible impact on those around him.
This focus on immediate, sensory experiences underscores his reliance on Se, making him a master of adapting to and manipulating his environment in real-time.
Next is Introverted Thinking (Ti), Chuuya’s auxiliary function, which supports his strategic prowess and decision-making. While Chuuya is often seen as impulsive and driven by immediate sensations, his actions are underpinned by a logical framework that guides his responses and strategies.
His Ti helps him analyze situations with a critical eye, allowing him to understand and exploit the underlying mechanics of conflicts and challenges. This function contributes to his ability to think on his feet and devise practical solutions to complex problems, aligning with his reputation as a formidable tactician within the Port Mafia.
Extraverted Feeling (Fe), Chuuya’s tertiary function, reveals itself in his interactions with others and his capacity for emotional expression.
While Chuuya may come across as brash and direct, his Fe is evident in his concern for his allies and his desire for harmony within his sphere of influence.
His loyalty and protective nature, particularly toward those he values, highlight his underlying emotional sensitivity and his need to maintain social cohesion.
Although he may not always express his feelings openly, his actions often reflect a deep-seated desire to connect with and support those he cares about, indicating that his Fe is engaged in maintaining relationships and managing social dynamics.
Finally, Chuuya’s inferior function, Introverted Intuition (Ni), is the least developed and manifests as a disinterest or discomfort with long-term planning and abstract conceptualization.
Unlike characters who are comfortable envisioning future possibilities and intricate schemes, Chuuya is more focused on the present moment and immediate concerns.
His actions and decisions are primarily driven by the current situation rather than long-term projections, suggesting that he is less inclined to engage in deep, abstract thinking.
This disconnection from Ni is reflected in his preference for direct action over speculative or future-oriented planning.
In conclusion, Chuuya embodies the ESTP personality through his dominant Se, which drives his action-oriented and sensory-focused approach, including his keen sense of fashion; his auxiliary Ti, which supports his tactical thinking and problem-solving; his tertiary Fe, which influences his emotional interactions and loyalty; and his inferior Ni, which leads to a preference for present-focused, pragmatic decisions.
His darling: ISFJ - Si > Fe > Ti > Ne
Or ESFJ - Fe > Si > Ne >Ti
ISFJ (The Protector / Defender)
An ISFJ female darling would be the ideal match for Chuuya Nakahara, providing a harmonious balance to his dynamic ESTP personality. Her dominant Introverted Sensing (Si) would offer the grounding and stability that Chuuya, with his action-oriented and spontaneous approach to life, often lacks.
Her strong connection to tradition and the past would provide a comforting anchor for Chuuya, helping him appreciate consistency and reliability, which are sometimes overlooked in his pursuit of immediate, sensory experiences.
The ISFJ’s Extraverted Feeling (Fe) would perfectly complement Chuuya’s tertiary Fe, creating a nurturing and emotionally supportive relationship.
While Chuuya’s Fe drives him to protect and connect with those he cares about, her more developed Fe would bring warmth, compassion, and an understanding of social dynamics that could soften Chuuya’s rougher edges.
Her natural ability to maintain harmony and cater to the emotional needs of others would resonate with Chuuya’s loyalty and protectiveness, fostering a deep emotional bond based on mutual care and respect.
Her Introverted Thinking (Ti), though secondary to her Si and Fe, would align well with Chuuya’s auxiliary Ti. Both would appreciate each other’s logical approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
Her Ti would offer a calm, methodical perspective that could help Chuuya refine his strategies and think through the consequences of his actions more thoroughly, especially in situations where his impulsive nature might otherwise lead him astray.
Lastly, the ISFJ’s Extraverted Intuition (Ne), as her inferior function, would introduce a subtle yet valuable element of novelty and open-mindedness into the relationship. While her Ne is less dominant, it would still encourage Chuuya to occasionally consider new possibilities and explore ideas beyond his immediate focus.
This would add a refreshing dynamic to their relationship, allowing them to grow together as they explore new experiences within the safety and security of their shared bond.
In conclusion, an ISFJ female darling would provide Chuuya with the stability, emotional support, and subtle encouragement he needs to thrive both personally and within his intense lifestyle. Her grounding Si, nurturing Fe, logical Ti, and adaptable Ne would create a balanced and fulfilling relationship, making her the best match for Chuuya’s ESTP personality.
ESFJ (The Provider / Consul)
An ESFJ female darling would be an excellent second option for Chuuya Nakahara, offering a complementary dynamic to his ESTP personality. Her dominant Extraverted Feeling (Fe) would naturally resonate with Chuuya’s own Fe, albeit at a more developed level, creating a relationship built on mutual emotional understanding and a strong sense of loyalty.
While Chuuya’s Fe drives him to protect and maintain harmony within his circle, her Fe would bring an even deeper focus on fostering social connections and ensuring that the emotional needs of those around them are met.
This shared focus on relationships would strengthen their bond and make them a formidable team when it comes to navigating the social complexities of their world.
The ESFJ’s Introverted Sensing (Si), as her auxiliary function, would offer Chuuya the stability and groundedness he sometimes lacks in his spontaneous and action-driven approach to life.
Her strong connection to tradition and the past would provide a comforting and steady influence, helping Chuuya to appreciate the value of consistency and reliability in both his personal life and his role within the Port Mafia.
This would be especially valuable in moments when Chuuya’s dominant Se might lead him to prioritize the thrill of the present over long-term stability.
Her tertiary Extraverted Intuition (Ne) would also introduce a subtle, yet important element of adaptability and creativity into their relationship.
While Chuuya’s focus is often on the immediate and concrete, her Ne would encourage him to explore new ideas and possibilities, adding a layer of flexibility and innovation to their partnership.
This could help Chuuya think beyond the immediate and consider different perspectives, which could be particularly useful in his tactical decision-making.
Finally, the ESFJ’s Introverted Thinking (Ti), though less developed, would complement Chuuya’s auxiliary Ti by providing a more structured and methodical approach to problem-solving.
Her Ti would help balance Chuuya’s sometimes impulsive decision-making, encouraging him to consider the logical implications of his actions in a more deliberate manner.
In summary, an ESFJ female darling would be a wonderful partner for Chuuya, offering emotional depth, stability, and a complementary approach to both their social and practical lives.
Her Fe and Si would harmonize well with Chuuya’s own functions, while her Ne and Ti would provide subtle but important enhancements to their relationship, making her an excellent second-best option for Chuuya’s ESTP personality.
NIKOLAI GOGOL
(I will update this!)
ENTP (The Debater / Visionary) - Ne > Ti > Fe > Si
This one was hard, he is not easy to type. I considered ENFP < ESFP and < ENTP. I ended up picking ENTP for him.
Extraverted Intuition (Ne), the ENTP's dominant function, manifests vividly in Nikolai's boundless exploration of ideas and possibilities. His constant drive to test boundaries and challenge conventional norms speaks to an ENTP's relentless pursuit of novel experiences and understanding.
Nikolai’s actions, driven by a desire to prove his liberation from emotional constraints, are classic Ne — his approach to life is experimental and driven by a fascination with the abstract and unconventional.
His decision to engage in morally questionable acts to demonstrate his freedom from human limitations further illustrates his inclination toward exploring and expanding his conceptual horizons, a hallmark of Ne’s propensity for envisioning endless possibilities.
Introverted Thinking (Ti), the auxiliary function of an ENTP, underpins Nikolai’s strategic and analytical nature. Despite his apparent recklessness, Nikolai's actions are meticulously calculated to achieve his goal of emotional and psychological transcendence.
His ability to analyze and deconstruct situations logically, while crafting elaborate plans to prove his independence from societal norms, underscores the role of Ti. This function supports his propensity for complex problem-solving and his knack for understanding the underlying principles of his actions, even if those principles involve pushing ethical boundaries.
Extraverted Feeling (Fe), as the tertiary function, reflects Nikolai’s awareness of social dynamics and his manipulation of them to serve his ends. While Nikolai exhibits a certain detachment from the emotional impact of his actions, his awareness of and strategic use of social interactions are indicative of Fe.
He navigates social contexts with a calculated precision, aiming to influence and manipulate perceptions to align with his personal ideals. This function reveals his skill in using emotional insights to further his agenda, even as he maintains an outward appearance of detachment.
Introverted Sensing (Si), the inferior function, highlights Nikolai's lesser focus on detailed past experiences and established conventions. ENTPs typically exhibit a less pronounced interest in the specifics of past experiences, preferring instead to innovate and explore new possibilities.
Nikolai’s disregard for the emotional weight of his actions and his preference for forward-thinking experimentation over reflective consideration of past experiences align with Si’s inferior role. His approach to life is characterized by a focus on present and future possibilities rather than a detailed engagement with past experiences.
In summary, Nikolai Gogol embodies the ENTP personality type through his dominant Ne, which drives his exploration of unconventional ideas and possibilities; his auxiliary Ti, which supports his strategic and analytical thinking; his tertiary Fe, which influences his social manipulation and awareness; and his inferior Si, which reflects his limited focus on past details and experiences.
His darling: ENFJ (Fe>Ni>Se>Ti)
Or ESFJ (Fe>Si>Ne>Ti)
ENFJ (The Protagonist / Teacher):
An ENFJ female darling would be the ideal match for Nikolai Gogol, perfectly complementing and balancing his ENTP personality with her emotional intelligence, visionary thinking, and ability to bring out the best in others.
Her dominant Extraverted Feeling (Fe) would be crucial in connecting with Nikolai on an emotional level, something he often neglects due to his detached and experimental approach to life.
Her natural empathy and understanding of social dynamics would allow her to navigate Nikolai’s complex personality, helping him engage with the emotional consequences of his actions and bringing a sense of humanity to his otherwise abstract pursuits.
Her Introverted Intuition (Ni) would align beautifully with Nikolai’s dominant Ne, providing a sense of shared vision and purpose. While Nikolai is constantly exploring new possibilities and pushing boundaries, the ENFJ’s Ni would offer a deeper, more focused perspective, helping him to see the long-term implications of his actions and to channel his boundless creativity towards meaningful goals. This partnership would enable Nikolai to balance his constant experimentation with a more grounded and purposeful approach to life.
The ENFJ’s Extraverted Sensing (Se), as her tertiary function, would complement Nikolai’s auxiliary Ti by helping him stay connected to the present moment and the tangible world around him.
While he is often caught up in abstract ideas and strategic thinking, her Se would encourage him to appreciate the immediate beauty of life, grounding his experiences in reality. This would help Nikolai to not only plan and theorize but also to enjoy and engage with the present in a more sensory, fulfilling way.
Finally, the ENFJ’s Introverted Thinking (Ti), though less developed, would still offer a subtle, logical structure that could help Nikolai refine his thoughts and ideas.
Her Ti would gently support his complex problem-solving processes, ensuring that his plans and strategies are both emotionally and logically sound. This balance would help Nikolai avoid the potential pitfalls of over-theorizing or becoming too detached from reality, giving him a well-rounded perspective on life.
In summary, an ENFJ female darling would provide the emotional depth, visionary focus, and practical grounding that Nikolai needs to thrive.
Her Fe would connect with him on an emotional level, her Ni would align with his visionary thinking, her Se would help him stay grounded in the present, and her Ti would offer subtle logical support. Together, these qualities would make her the best possible match for Nikolai, bringing out the best in his complex, ENTP personality.
ESFJ ( The Provider / Consul):
An ESFJ female darling would be an excellent second-best match for Nikolai Gogol, offering a grounding and nurturing presence that complements his ENTP personality. Her dominant Extraverted Feeling (Fe) would provide the strong emotional connection that Nikolai often overlooks in his pursuit of abstract ideas and unconventional experiences. Her natural empathy and desire to maintain harmony in relationships would help balance Nikolai’s more detached and experimental tendencies, encouraging him to consider the emotional impact of his actions on those around him.
The ESFJ’s Introverted Sensing (Si), as her auxiliary function, would contrast with Nikolai’s inferior Si, helping him to connect with and appreciate the past and established traditions. While Nikolai is constantly focused on exploring new possibilities and pushing boundaries, her Si would offer him a sense of continuity and stability. She could help him ground his ideas in reality by drawing on past experiences and proven methods, ensuring that his innovative approaches are not only creative but also practical and effective.
Her Extraverted Intuition (Ne), as a tertiary function, would resonate with Nikolai’s dominant Ne, creating a shared enthusiasm for exploring possibilities and generating new ideas. While her Ne is less dominant, it would still enable her to understand and engage with Nikolai’s creative mind, supporting his need for intellectual stimulation and novel experiences. This alignment would allow them to enjoy dynamic and adventurous conversations, keeping their relationship intellectually vibrant.
Finally, the ESFJ’s Introverted Thinking (Ti), though her inferior function, would offer a subtle but important balance to Nikolai’s strong Ti. Her Ti would help her understand and appreciate the logical structure of Nikolai’s thoughts, even if she doesn’t naturally prioritize logic in the same way. This would allow her to support his analytical processes while still bringing a more compassionate and emotionally aware perspective to their interactions.
In summary, an ESFJ female darling would bring emotional warmth, stability, and a shared enthusiasm for new experiences to Nikolai’s life. Her Fe would nurture and balance his more detached tendencies, her Si would ground his ideas in reality, her Ne would complement his creative exploration, and her Ti would offer subtle logical support.
These qualities make her a strong second-best match for Nikolai, helping him to connect more deeply with others while still enjoying the intellectual and creative stimulation he craves.
AKUTAGAWA RYUUNOSUKE
ISFP (The Adventurer / Composer ) - Fi > Se > Ni > Te
Akutagawa's dominant function, Introverted Feeling (Fi), reveals itself in his deeply personal sense of morality and the intense emotions that drive his actions. Although Akutagawa often appears cold and ruthless, his actions are motivated by a strong internal value system that he seldom reveals to others.
His need for validation, particularly from Dazai, is rooted in a profound sense of inadequacy and a desperate desire to prove his worth. This internal emotional landscape, characterized by Fi, defines Akutagawa’s motivations and underlies his quest for recognition, even as he grapples with feelings of rejection and worthlessness.
Next, we have Extraverted Sensing (Se), Akutagawa’s auxiliary function, which manifests in his acute awareness of his physical surroundings and his reactive combat style. Akutagawa thrives in high-pressure situations, where his ability, Rashomon, is wielded with precision and adaptability.
His Se drives him to engage with the world directly and immediately, making him a formidable force in battle. This function supports his Fi by allowing him to take swift and decisive action in pursuit of his personal goals, often leading to intense and violent encounters that are driven by his emotional undercurrents.
His tertiary function, Introverted Intuition (Ni), plays a subtler but significant role in his character. While Akutagawa is primarily focused on the present, there is a persistent sense of future orientation in his actions.
His Ni is evident in his long-term goal of gaining Dazai’s approval and the way he internalizes past experiences to guide his decisions. This function supports his Fi by giving him a sense of purpose and direction, even if it is often clouded by his immediate emotional responses.
Akutagawa’s Ni also manifests in his ability to foresee the consequences of his actions, though this is often secondary to his more dominant functions.
Lastly, Akutagawa’s inferior function, Extraverted Thinking (Te), is the least developed and manifests in his occasional struggle with logical organization and external structure. While Akutagawa can be strategic and methodical in battle, his approach is more often driven by his emotions and immediate sensory inputs rather than a clear, logical framework.
His Te surfaces when he attempts to impose order or efficiency in his environment, but these efforts are often overshadowed by his more dominant Fi and Se functions.
This inferior Te contributes to his difficulties in aligning his internal values with the external world, leading to a sense of frustration and conflict when his actions fail to achieve the desired results.
In conclusion, Akutagawa embodies the traits of an ISFP through his dominant Fi, which drives his intense emotional core and need for validation; his auxiliary Se, which fuels his reactive and physically engaging combat style; his tertiary Ni, which provides a sense of direction and future orientation; and his inferior Te, which occasionally struggles to impose order on his chaotic inner world.
His darling: ISFJ - Si > Fe > Ti > Ne
Or ENFJ - Fe > Si > Ne > Ti
ISFJ - (The Protector / Defender)
An ISFJ female darling would be the ideal match for Akutagawa, providing the stability, care, and emotional grounding that his turbulent ISFP personality craves.
Her dominant Introverted Sensing (Si) would offer Akutagawa a sense of continuity and reliability, something he deeply lacks in his chaotic life. Her ability to recall and value the past would help him feel anchored, offering him a safe emotional space where he can reflect on his experiences without feeling judged or misunderstood.
This grounding presence would counterbalance his reactive and intense Extraverted Sensing (Se), allowing him to find solace in a more structured, stable environment.
The ISFJ’s Extraverted Feeling (Fe) would complement Akutagawa’s deeply personal Introverted Feeling (Fi) by helping him navigate his emotions in a more outward, constructive manner. Her natural empathy and concern for others would provide him with the validation and understanding he seeks but often feels he doesn’t deserve.
Through her Fe, she would help Akutagawa express his feelings in a way that fosters connection rather than isolation, gradually teaching him that he is valued for who he is, not just for his abilities or his success in battle.
Her Introverted Thinking (Ti), while not as prominent, would provide a quiet, logical framework that could help Akutagawa make sense of his internal conflicts.
This function would assist in gently guiding him toward clearer, more structured thinking without overwhelming his emotional processes. Her Ti would act as a subtle but important counterbalance to his chaotic internal world, offering a perspective that is both patient and rational, helping him organize his thoughts and decisions more effectively.
Lastly, the ISFJ’s Extraverted Intuition (Ne), as her inferior function, would resonate with Akutagawa’s Introverted Intuition (Ni), fostering a mutual understanding of future possibilities and deeper meanings.
While her Ne is less developed, it would still complement his Ni by encouraging him to consider alternative perspectives and outcomes, subtly broadening his view without destabilizing his primary focus.
In summary, an ISFJ female darling would bring the stability, emotional support, and gentle guidance that Akutagawa desperately needs.
Her Si would provide grounding, her Fe would offer emotional understanding, her Ti would introduce subtle logic, and her Ne would complement his intuitive insights.
Together, these qualities would help Akutagawa find the balance and emotional connection he craves, making her the best possible match for him.
ENFJ (The Protagonist / Teacher):
An ENFJ female darling would be the second-best match for Akutagawa, offering him the emotional guidance and supportive leadership that could help him grow beyond his inner turmoil.
Her dominant Extraverted Feeling (Fe) would provide a nurturing and empathetic environment, allowing Akutagawa to feel understood and valued.
Her ability to connect with others on an emotional level would help him open up and express his feelings, easing his deep-seated need for validation and helping him navigate his intense Introverted Feeling (Fi) with more clarity and compassion.
The ENFJ’s Introverted Intuition (Ni) would align with Akutagawa’s own Ni, fostering a shared sense of purpose and vision. Her ability to see the bigger picture and understand the deeper implications of their actions would resonate with his need for meaning and direction.
This connection would help him focus his energy and emotions on long-term goals, providing a sense of purpose that extends beyond his immediate struggles.
Her Extraverted Sensing (Se), as her tertiary function, would complement Akutagawa’s auxiliary Se, encouraging him to engage more fully with the present moment.
While her Se is not as dominant, it would still offer a playful and dynamic energy that could help Akutagawa enjoy life’s experiences more openly and with less fear.
This would balance his sometimes overwhelming focus on immediate, intense sensory inputs, helping him approach situations with a bit more lightness and adaptability.
Lastly, the ENFJ’s Introverted Thinking (Ti), as her inferior function, would provide a subtle but important balance to Akutagawa’s chaotic internal world.
Though not her strongest function, her Ti would still offer a logical framework that could help him analyze situations more objectively. This would aid in softening the extremes of his Fi and Se, guiding him toward more balanced and thoughtful decision-making.
In summary, an ENFJ female darling would bring emotional warmth, shared vision, and a supportive, structured approach to Akutagawa’s life.
Her Fe would help him connect and express his emotions, her Ni would align with his sense of purpose, her Se would complement his present-focused intensity, and her Ti would offer subtle logical support.
Together, these qualities would help Akutagawa find emotional balance and a sense of belonging, making her an excellent match for him.
a few people were interested in my aspd dazai analysis but I feel like no one is seeing the reblog of the essay so it gets its own post now! yap ahead
A couple of days ago, I was having a conversation with an acquaintance about Dazai. At one point, I had offhandedly mentioned that I believe Dazai is someone who deals with ASPD. While I thought it was fairly obviously implied throughout the show, they were quick to disagree with me, offering instead the opinion of him having BPD. Now, I’m not one to start arguments over simple things like this and I could tell they were not the type of person who would enjoy a debate. So like any rational, passionate person, I decided to write a 5 page essay on it instead. In this essay I will elaborate on why I believe ASPD is a better fit diagnosis for Dazai than BPD, present evidence to support it, and talk about why I don’t think he has BPD.
Before we get into this, let’s talk about what exactly ASPD and BPD are. Disclaimer, I am not a professional, nor have I been formally diagnosed with either. So, I am not an expert. However, I do believe I’ve done enough research and have my own personal experiences with a large portion of symptoms of ASPD, as well as having several personal connections to people with BPD, to speak on this.
Antisocial Personality Disorder is a cluster B disorder characterised mostly by a frequent lack of understanding of empathy, using manipulation and/or deception to further one’s own needs or wants, and being generally apathetic towards people’s personal thoughts and feelings. People with ASPD often have a hard time discerning and comprehending morals, forming meaningful attachments with people around them, and caring about societal norms. Overall, the struggle of ASPD is mostly found with morality and empathy.
(I would like to note that just because someone may struggle with these things, it does not mean they are incapable of it. Someone with ASPD is just as able to love and be loved as the next person, they just have a more difficult time overcoming their own personal blocks in order to do so. Similarly, they may struggle with understanding morality but that does not mean they are incapable of conforming to what is widely considered right or wrong. They may have different reasons for being kind or just, such as ‘it’s too much trouble to be bad,’ ‘I like it when others tell me I’m a good person,’ or ‘it’s just what I’m supposed to do.’ This does not mean their actions are invalid, simply that they have differing motivations from the larger population.)
On the other hand, Borderline Personality Disorder, also cluster B, is most well known for intense and irregular mood swings, attachment and abandonment issues, and impulsive and self destructive behaviour. People who deal with BPD typically also struggle with mania, a warped and unstable sense of self, and intense and generally unjustified anger issues. The gist of BPD, at its core, is the inability to regulate thoughts and emotions. Someone with BPD may do a complete 180 emotionally because of something another individual may deem small or insignificant. A partner forgetting to text back could trigger emotions that have the same weight as if the partner were to break up with them. Someone who has just experienced the death of their father could suddenly the next day feel on top of the world, given the right prompting. BPD is all about the instability and insecurity regarding thoughts, feelings, or identity.
So! How does this relate to Dazai? I’m glad you asked!
Throughout the series, Dazai continuously shows signs and behavioural patterns aligning with that of someone with ASPD. He is constantly seen manipulating people and situations to get the results he desires, he’s outright stated to have no interest or understanding of ‘right’ and ‘wrong’, and it’s not uncommon to see him using or mistreating certain people in his life with little to no empathy or regret. The prevalence of this behaviour changes significantly with his transfer to the Armed Detective Agency, but is definitely still something that affects Dazai to this day. If he has to threaten to torture someone to get the information he wants, as seen with Kouyou after Kyouka was taken, or sacrifice one innocent person’s life to end a villain’s, as seen with Rokuzo and Miss Sasaki in his entrance exam, he has no issue doing such.
In the Dark Ages, Oda tells Dazai outright that he doesn’t care about morality. Dazai is as Dazai does, and he has no reservations doing things deemed evil to further his (or Mori’s) own goals. His list of crimes is extensive. His personal relationships are messy and toxic. He has no issue with lying, stealing, or killing. The only reason he decides to pursue the life of a good man is because someone he grew to care for, Oda, had requested it as his dying wish. It’s likely that in stating his understanding of Dazai’s views, or lack thereof, on good and evil, he proved to Dazai that he understood him. This is one of the main factors that convinced Dazai to take his wish into consideration. Knowing that Oda understood his true apathetic nature and still requested this of him convinced Dazai to give Oda’s ideologies a chance. Had Oda not asked it of Dazai, he likely would have stayed with the Port Mafia without much thought to it.
Manipulation is perhaps one of Dazai’s most well known traits. He’s famous for his schemes, his tricks, his ability to transform any person or situation into what he wants them to be. Take Akutagawa for example. Dazai is cruel to him with the interest of moulding him into something the Port Mafia (or himself, later on) can use. He has little to no regard for Akutagawa’s safety or emotions. This is something that, for the most part, follows him into his new life at the Armed Detective Agency. He says and does things to manipulate Akutagawa’s emotions to play in Dazai’s favour. He makes comments about Akutagawa being inferior to Atsushi (‘my new apprentice is superior to you in every way imaginable’), he uses Akutagawa’s admiration against him (ex. The Moby Dick, when Dazai has Atsushi throw the cellphone in order to distract Akutagawa), and he holds the promise of approval over his head in order to get Akutagawa to do things he typically wouldn’t (‘I hope to see you a little more competent now’ during the Cannibalism Arc as he’s told to work with Atsushi).
During the prison arc, Dazai is shown to play a game of chess with Fyodor. It’s obvious what the pieces on the board represent: each piece is a character. Every character plays a role in Dazai’s chess match against the Demon. He’s got his Queen, his Knights, his Bishop, etc. and he’ll manipulate them and the situation as he sees fit in order to win the match. One of the main components to his relationship with Fyodor is how similar they think. Dazai has stated on several occasions that the reason he’s able to predict Fyodor’s actions and plans is because ‘it’s what he would do.’ They share ideas, strategies, and behaviours. Both are prone to manipulation and deception in order to get what they want.
Some other noticeable examples that I’m too lazy to elaborate on but speak for themselves are the scene with the nurse and the phone, the scene where Dazai sends Atsushi to go investigate his own abuser’s death, and when Dazai manipulates Chuuya into joining the Port Mafia.
I’ve touched on deception a few times so far, but I felt it was significant enough to deserve its own paragraph. It’s not uncommon for Dazai to leave out important details, or tell outright lies in order to get what he wants. He lied to most of the members of the Agency about his past for years in order to keep his place there, assuming that they would shun them had they known. His entire personality is mostly a facade, putting up the mask of a silly detective man to avoid being taken too seriously.
He’s prone to apathy, and doesn’t really ever show any characters empathy throughout the series. When Atsushi is having a panic attack, Dazai’s instinct is to slap him back to reality rather than cater to his emotional needs. When Kunikida is upset by the results of his and Dazai’s actions in Dazai’s Entrance Exam, Dazai simply tells him that reality won’t conform to his ideals. After Chuuya is betrayed by the Sheep, Dazai uses his vulnerability to recruit him into the Port Mafia. It’s rare to see him act sympathetic with characters. This does not mean he doesn’t show kindness to them, but he clearly has difficulties empathising with people going through crises.
Along with others, he’s rather uncaring towards himself. Most of the times we’ve seen him in dangerous situations, he’s continued to act carefree and unbothered. When he was captured by the Port Mafia he had no reservations about provoking Akutagawa even though he knew it would cause himself harm. He also has consistently proven that he doesn’t care about his own life. Via attempts and jokes alike, he’s prone to suicide in a way that makes it obvious he holds very little value to himself. This doesn’t necessarily mean that he has a low sense of self, or that he’s insecure. He’s got a very solid opinion of himself. He just doesn’t care whether he’s dead or alive.
While Dazai struggles with all of these, it doesn’t mean he is incapable of doing good. His relationship with Oda was clearly genuine, and he obviously cared for him a great deal. He’s also the only reason Atsushi is alive right now, and he’s taken great care to give Atsushi a decent life. He’s a sufficient mentor for him, and he’s done a lot of good for Yokohama with the Armed Detective Agency. He’s come clean about his past to his friends, and overall has improved his way of life. Dazai has grown from the Demon Prodigy of the Port Mafia into a respectable man of justice. He still has moments where his apathetic side will shine through, but he’s clearly healed and developed quite a bit since joining the ADA.
‘Okay cool. So… what about BPD? He could share some symptoms. You haven’t talked about that since the intro paragraphs. Wasn’t this about ASPD and BPD? You suck. Loser.’
I’m getting there! Control yourself. It’s taken 14 paragraphs to get to this point. God forbid I be thorough with my analysis. SMH. Anyways.
Now that we’ve talked significantly enough about Dazai having ASPD, let’s touch on why I don’t think he has BPD. This is a headcanon I’ve seen frequently enough that I’ve formed an opinion on it. Obviously. That’s why I’m writing this essay.
The thing is, BPD relies on emotional instability and a disorganised attachment and sense of self. I don’t see any of that in Dazai. He has a fairly concrete opinion of himself and his identity. His emotional state is consistent throughout the show, excluding a few specific scenarios, and while he seems reckless and impulsive, he’s not. All of his actions are always carefully planned out, even if it doesn’t seem so.
Dazai is well known for his carefree and jokester persona. When he’s not playfully dumping his work on Atsushi or Kunikida, he’s cracking jokes and poking fun at the members of the Detective Agency. It’s not often that we see the mask slip off. When it does, though, it’s almost always when he’s reminiscing over Oda. That, or actively plotting against a formidable opponent he takes seriously. These are pretty normal situations to not be joking around in. The guy is grieving his dead best friend. Not exactly a drastic mood swing. Fairly run of the mill. Outside of this, we don’t ever see him react severely and unjustifiedly. His emotions are always carefully balanced.
(Note, I am aware of the scene with Akutagawa during the Dark Ages. Have patience. I’ll get to that eventually.)
We also don’t see him struggle with abandonment/attachment issues. He has the ‘everything worth wanting is lost the moment I obtain it’ mentality, but that doesn’t exactly prohibit him from forming bonds with the people around him. He’s fairly normal about everyone at the Armed Detective Agency. He obviously cares for Atsushi, and he doesn’t make any moves to push him or anyone else away—or become unhealthily attached, on the contrary—both of which are very common behaviours in people with BPD. He goes to their parties (I can’t exactly remember when, but I’m fairly certain he was there when Poe visited Ranpo during the ADA party, and on the yacht with the infamous ‘to the Stray Dogs’ scene), runs errands and completes chores with them (the Wan episode where he and Atsushi are cleaning lockers together), and makes a point to hang out with them outside of work (the fireworks festival we all know and love/hate).
He doesn’t struggle with his self image. It’s never implied that Dazai doesn’t know who he is or where he belongs. He doesn’t have any internal conflict about whether he’s Port Mafia or Armed Detective Agency; he’s actually quite firm on his stance. He rejects Mori’s offers and requests to return to the Mafia several times throughout the series. He’s secure in his sense of self. He has no issues admitting his strengths and flaws, and he knows who he is and what he wants.
The only time we’ve seen him become angry to the point of an extreme reaction is when Akutagawa doesn’t do as Dazai had wanted in the Dark Ages. He kills the hostages they had taken rather than prodding them for information. Dazai’s reaction, while definitely intense, was neither unprovoked nor unjustified in his point of view. Him shooting the gun at Akutagawa was both a punishment and a lesson. The pressure of a life or death situation was what provoked Akutagawa to finally grasp control over Rashomon in a way that would allow him to use Devoured Space. So while extreme, Dazai’s anger had reason to it.
I also would like to remind everyone that this scene was set during the time Dazai was in the Mafia. It’s understandable for the stakes and punishments to be intense. If a subordinate doesn’t learn a lesson quickly and efficiently, the consequences can range from a mild beating to the fall of an entire organisation. Dazai knew this as well, which is why he wasn’t going to tolerate impulsivity. Also it’s the Mafia. They’re like, known for guns and killing and shit.
Contrary to anger, mania is the state of intense highs, feeling like you’re on top of the world. People who experience mania often feel like they’re invincible, either physically or metaphorically. They may put themselves in harm’s way to prove that ‘nothing can hurt them,’ or risk all their money gambling because ‘they just can’t lose.’ They’re excitable, irrational, and impulsive. Dazai is none of these things. He puts himself in harm’s way to either attempt to destroy himself, or as a part of his plan to get things to play out the way he wants. Everything he does, while it may look impulsive, has a plan. The only thing I can think of within the series where he acts without thinking is in his entrance exam where he offers to drive the taxi for the thrill of the fact that he is actually a terrible fucking driver. If he gambles, he knows he’ll win. If he jumps, he hopes he’ll fall. His behaviour is always carefully thought out. Also he’s consistently depressed throughout the story, so. No room for that.
Now onto everyone's favourite topic, self destructive behaviour! It's pretty widely known and agreed upon that Dazai either does or has self-harmed before. Hence the bandages. He's also very loud and proud about his passion for suicide. This could count, it's definitely self destructive in the physical sense, but I don't believe it's because of BPD. I think the guy is just really fucking depressed. He just wants to die, it's not so much in an ‘I don't deserve good things or comfort’ way. I also want to touch on the more figurative methods of self destruction. He doesn't exactly go out of his way to sabotage himself in regards to his work, his relationships (he fucks with Chuuya, but he just generally enjoys riling him up), or anything like that. On the contrary, we see him actively putting effort into keeping those things stable. (Lying in order to keep his place at the ADA, being active in his social circle, working towards keeping the ADA and Yokohama in general safe.) So, not really self sabotage in a way that makes me think of BPD.
Overall, most of Dazai's struggles or traits fall under understanding empathy, morality, and manipulation. His actions throughout the series are not hard to connect to these patterns, and it doesn’t take much digging to find supporting evidence. All of his characterization leads to the conclusion of ASPD, rather than BPD. He isn't a very emotionally unregulated character, in my opinion. He’s level-headed, well managed, and secure in himself and his environment. The guy just doesn't quite know how to function as a human being with other human beings, but he's trying.
Also no you cannot change my mind. Anyways I've been writing for like 4 hours so goodbye.
i was thinking the development of skk's partnership. In stormbringer before their partnership was formally established, dazai withheld information for his plan to work even knowing the risks of it, the withholding caused chuuya to be tortured and murase (someone close to chuuya) to be killed. chuuya punishes dazai as a result of the torture (dazai lets him) and murase dying, VIA spinning him onto a pole until he throws up.
In dragon head conflict, dazai provokes chuuya (as a leeway for a code in the future). yada yada, chuuya punches him and calls him out which motivates dazai to stop the conflict which is killing people. dazai disappears after that, the PM members tell chuuya abt a microscope in dazai's room which was used in their conversation earlier (when dazai provokes him by saying chuuya was a human as small as a microscope).
he destroys the microscope, finding out it was a communicator left by dazai and goes off to rescue him (he got captured), saying "what for me shitty dazai". the development of their partnership, they learned to communicate in their own way, instead of dazai withhelding information again.
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Mori Ougai and Osamu Dazai, two of the most enigmatic and complex characters in Bungou Stray Dogs, represent the intricate dynamics of leadership, manipulation, and personal philosophy. Mori, the calculating and pragmatic leader of the Port Mafia, embodies a utilitarian approach to power, where the ends justify the means, no matter how morally ambiguous. His tactical mind and ability to maintain control make him a figure of fear and respect within the criminal underworld.
On the other hand, Dazai, a former Port Mafia executive and now a key member of the Armed Detective Agency, presents a fascinating contrast. His outwardly carefree demeanor masks a deeply troubled psyche and a sharp intellect. Dazai's personal philosophy, shaped by his turbulent past and existential struggles, often clashes with Mori's ruthless pragmatism, yet they share an understanding
Mori as a Calculative Mentor
Mori Ōgai, the leader of the Port Mafia, is a man defined by pragmatism and control. His mentorship of Dazai Osamu is a pivotal relationship in BSD, highlighting how Mori molds talented individuals for the sake of the organization’s survival. However, beneath his calculated approach lies a layer of complexity that often goes unnoticed. Be it hate or ignorance, it ends up being overlooked because he's a ''pedophile'' where I disagree—but that's a topic for another post.
Recognizing Potential: Mori’s decision to mentor Dazai was not arbitrary. He identified Dazai’s extraordinary intelligence and untapped potential early on, realizing that Dazai could be shaped into a formidable Mafia executive. However, Mori’s mentorship was devoid of traditional emotional warmth; instead, it was rooted in pragmatism and control.
Cultivating Ruthlessness: Mori instilled in Dazai a cold, strategic mindset. This enabled Dazai to rise through the ranks of the Mafia but also reinforced his nihilism. By emphasizing results over emotional connections, Mori cultivated a version of Dazai who excelled at wielding power but struggled to find personal meaning.
Mori’s Genuine Care for Dazai
Contrary to his cold exterior, Mori’s actions and words in BEAST reveal a deeper layer of care for Dazai. His statement, “There is a young man before me who wants to die. I want to save him yet I can’t. I do not wish to go through it again,” underscores his regret and emotional investment in Dazai’s well-being.
Mori’s care for Dazai is both his strength and his flaw. He cares so deeply for Dazai that he cannot fully acknowledge the harm he has caused. Mori’s utilitarian philosophy often blinds him to the personal impact of his actions, leading to a complex dynamic where his care manifests as control.
Haunted by Failure: Mori’s inability to save Dazai from his suicidal tendencies reflects his own limitations. Despite his intelligence and authority, he recognizes that he cannot reach Dazai on a personal, emotional level. This failure appears to haunt Mori, suggesting that Dazai is one of the few individuals he genuinely cares for.
Desire to Protect: Mori’s desire to save Dazai is a rare glimpse into his humanity. His regret at not being able to help Dazai mirrors his possible guilt over past failures, making his relationship with Dazai deeply personal and emotionally charged. Also, his need and desire to protect children is rooted from his childhood, whereas he wishes someone would have done the same to him. He longs for that innocence, and believes there is still some in Dazai.
Denial as Defense: Mori’s refusal to see his actions as abusive stems from his deep-seated care for Dazai. Acknowledging the harm he has caused would mean confronting his own failures, which clashes with his existential need to find purpose in being a protector and guide.
Unacknowledged Affection: Despite his manipulative tendencies, Mori’s actions often reveal a genuine desire to protect and nurture Dazai. His inability to save Dazai from his nihilistic tendencies reflects both his limitations and his humanity.
Mori’s Blind Spot: “Not Abuse”
Mori’s profound care for Dazai creates a psychological blind spot, where he cannot fully accept that his actions may have caused harm to someone he holds in such high regard.
Denial of Harm: For Mori, acknowledging that he may have hurt Dazai would mean confronting his own failure as both a mentor and a human being. His care for Dazai is so deep that he rationalizes his actions as necessary rather than abusive, convincing himself that everything he did was for Dazai’s benefit.
Emotional Conflict: While Mori is highly self-aware in his role as a Mafia boss, his personal attachment to Dazai complicates his ability to objectively evaluate their relationship. His inability to accept that he might have hurt Dazai comes from a combination of guilt and fear of losing someone he values so deeply.
Projection of Control: Mori often frames his decisions regarding Dazai as pragmatic, but in reality, they are influenced by his personal desire to keep Dazai within his sphere of influence. This possessiveness can blur the line between care and control, leading to unintentional harm that Mori refuses to acknowledge.
Dazai’s Complex View of Mori
Dazai’s relationship with Mori is fraught with contradictions. While he internalized much of Mori’s teachings, he also resents the choices Mori made, particularly those tied to Oda’s fate.
Father-Son Dynamics: Dazai likely viewed Mori as a surrogate father figure, albeit an unhealthy one. Mori provided him with structure and purpose within the Mafia, but his inability to address Dazai’s emotional void led to a strained relationship. Despite this, Dazai carries elements of Mori’s leadership style with him, reflecting the profound influence Mori had on his development.
Dislike, Not Hatred: Dazai does not harbor outright hatred for Mori; instead, his dislike stems largely from the consequences of Mori’s leadership decisions, especially the ones that led to Oda Sakunosuke’s death. Oda was Dazai’s moral anchor and closest friend, and Mori’s role in the events that caused Oda’s demise solidified Dazai’s disillusionment with the Port Mafia.
Rebellion Against Control: Dazai’s departure from the Mafia symbolizes his rejection of Mori’s worldview. By joining the Armed Detective Agency, Dazai sought a path that allowed him to use his skills for protection rather than destruction, directly opposing Mori’s ethos.
Dazai’s View of Mori’s Intentions: Dazai’s perception of Mori’s intentions is both sharp and selective. While he recognizes Mori’s strategic mind and manipulative tendencies, he may intentionally overlook or dismiss Mori’s moments of genuine concern. This ambiguity in Dazai’s understanding adds to their layered relationship, where mutual acknowledgment exists alongside mutual denial.
Mori’s Perception of Dazai
Mori’s perspective on Dazai is a blend of admiration, regret, and a desire to maintain control.
Valuable Asset: Mori saw Dazai as a prodigy, someone who could elevate the Mafia’s power and prestige. His mentorship was as much about shaping Dazai as it was about harnessing his potential for the Mafia’s benefit.
Personal Connection: In BEAST, Mori’s acknowledgment of his desire to save Dazai demonstrates a level of emotional attachment that he rarely shows to others. Dazai represents not only a valuable ally but also someone Mori wishes he could have supported better on a personal level.
Fear of Loss: Mori’s regret over his inability to help Dazai likely stems from a broader fear of losing people he values. His role as Mafia boss forces him to prioritize pragmatism over emotions, but Dazai’s struggles may have touched a nerve, reminding Mori of his own vulnerabilities—which he hates, due to seeing them as 'weak'.
Parallels and Divergences
The relationship between Mori and Dazai is marked by both similarities and stark contrasts, reflecting their shared traits and opposing philosophies.
Shared Intelligence: Both Mori and Dazai are brilliant strategists, capable of manipulating situations to their advantage. This shared trait creates a mutual understanding between them, even after Dazai’s defection.
Philosophical Differences: While Mori views people as tools for achieving his goals, Dazai’s post-Mafia philosophy is rooted in protecting others and seeking redemption. This divergence highlights the impact of their differing life experiences and personal growth.
Oda as a Catalyst: Oda’s death serves as a turning point for Dazai, cementing his departure from Mori’s influence. It underscores the philosophical gap between the two: Mori’s pragmatism versus Dazai’s desire for a more humane approach.
Philosophical Divergence: Mori and Dazai
Mori and Dazai represent two distinct yet deeply intertwined philosophical arcs in BSD. Both characters grapple with the inherent lack of meaning in life, yet their responses diverge dramatically, revealing their unique worldviews and motivations.
Mori: From Nihilism to Existentialism
Mori Ōgai’s outlook on life initially appears steeped in nihilism—a pragmatic acceptance of life’s lack of inherent meaning. As a strategist and leader of the Port Mafia, Mori’s decisions are governed by utilitarian principles. Sacrifices, manipulations, and calculated ruthlessness define his leadership, reflecting a worldview where survival and utility are paramount. However, deeper analysis reveals that Mori is not a true nihilist. Instead, he has transitioned into a form of existentialism where he finds purpose through his role as a leader and mentor.
Purpose as Utility: Mori’s existentialist philosophy centers on the belief that his existence derives meaning from being useful. His role as the Port Mafia’s boss gives him a defined purpose, and his meticulous actions are aimed at maintaining the Mafia’s stability. Mori’s care for Dazai, though often expressed through control and manipulation, aligns with this philosophy. He believes that guiding Dazai and preserving the organization justify his existence.
Care as Purpose: Mori’s desire to save Dazai, as expressed in the BEAST light novel (“There is a young man before me who wants to die. I want to save him and yet I can’t. I don't want to go through that again”), reveals an emotional dimension to his purpose. His regret over past failures and inability to prevent Dazai’s nihilistic tendencies highlight Mori’s internal struggle to reconcile his utilitarian decisions with his deeper, personal care for individuals.
Existential Choice: Mori’s acceptance of responsibility, even in morally gray contexts, demonstrates his existentialist commitment to shaping his own meaning. For Mori, this meaning lies in maintaining order and ensuring the survival of those under his command, even if it requires morally questionable actions.
Dazai: Nihilism to a False Sense of Hope
Dazai’s journey, by contrast, begins deeply entrenched in nihilism. His intelligence and self-awareness exacerbate his despair, as he perceives life’s futility and struggles to find a reason to live. Despite leaving the Port Mafia and joining the Armed Detective Agency, Dazai’s search for meaning remains unresolved.
The Illusion of Purpose: Dazai outwardly claims that his reason to live is to fulfill Oda’s dying wish: to save people and prevent others from walking the same dark path. However, this mission is less a genuine sense of purpose and more a placeholder for meaning. Dazai’s actions in the Agency reflect a commitment to this goal, but his continued existential struggles suggest that he has yet to find a true, personal reason to live.
Hope vs. Despair: Unlike Mori, who has found a sense of purpose in his role, Dazai remains caught between hope and despair. His work in the Agency shows a desire to believe in something greater, yet his nihilistic tendencies—his detachment, dark humor, and suicidal ideation—persist, revealing an internal conflict that has not been fully resolved.
Oda’s Influence: Oda’s philosophy of living without killing gave Dazai a framework for a more hopeful worldview, but it did not resolve Dazai’s deeper existential crisis. While Dazai’s adherence to Oda’s ideals drives his actions, it is clear that he has not yet found a personal, intrinsic reason to live beyond fulfilling his late friend’s wish.
Parallels and Contrasts
Shared Roots in Nihilism: Both Mori and Dazai began their journeys with a nihilistic outlook. Mori’s utilitarianism and Dazai’s despair reflect different manifestations of the belief that life lacks inherent meaning. However, their responses diverge sharply as they navigate this shared foundation.
Purpose vs. Searching: Mori has embraced existentialism by anchoring his purpose in being useful to the Mafia and those he cares for, such as Dazai. Dazai, on the other hand, remains in flux, using Oda’s dying wish as a temporary anchor while continuing to search for a deeper, more personal meaning.
Care and Regret: Both characters experience care and regret, but in different ways. Mori’s care for Dazai drives his desire to protect him, even as his methods cause harm. Dazai’s regret over his inability to save Oda fuels his commitment to preventing similar tragedies, even as he grapples with his own unresolved despair.
Symbolism in Their Journeys
The dynamic between Mori and Dazai is rife with symbolic undertones, reflecting their philosophical and emotional struggles:
Light and Shadow: Mori represents the shadow of Dazai’s past—a constant reminder of his nihilistic roots. Conversely, Dazai, in his quest to uphold Oda’s ideals, symbolizes a glimmer of light—a hope for redemption and purpose. This interplay underscores the tension between their philosophies and choices.
The Mentor and the Wanderer: Mori, as a mentor, symbolizes structure, authority, and purpose derived from responsibility. Dazai, as a wanderer, represents freedom, uncertainty, and the struggle to define one’s own path. Their relationship encapsulates the broader theme of guidance versus self-discovery.
The Thread of Care: Mori’s insistence on guiding Dazai despite their conflicts symbolizes an unbreakable thread of care—a bond forged through shared struggles and mutual understanding, even if marred by manipulation.
The Father Figure Debate: Why Mori, Not Oda
While Oda Sakunosuke played a pivotal role in shaping Dazai’s moral outlook, it is Mori who truly fulfills the father figure role in his life. Oda’s influence on Dazai is rooted in ideals and a friendship that transcends their respective roles, but Mori’s connection to Dazai is far more foundational.
Guidance Through Darkness: Mori nurtured Dazai from a young age, offering him a framework to channel his intelligence and navigate the brutal realities of the Port Mafia. Though his methods were harsh, Mori’s actions were often driven by a desire to mold Dazai into a capable leader and ensure his survival.
Emotional Complexity: Dazai’s relationship with Mori is fraught with tension, but it also reveals a deep, underlying bond. Dazai’s criticisms of Mori often stem from moral disagreements rather than personal hatred. His respect for Mori’s intellect and leadership underscores their connection, even as he rejects Mori’s methods.
Oda’s Role: Oda’s relationship with Dazai is more akin to that of a mentor or older brother. Oda offered Dazai an alternative path—one rooted in compassion and nonviolence—but he did not shape Dazai’s foundational beliefs or guide him through his formative years in the same way Mori did.
Implications for Their Relationship
The philosophical divergence between Mori and Dazai deepens the complexity of their relationship. Mori’s existentialist commitment to utility and care contrasts with Dazai’s ongoing search for meaning, highlighting the tension between their approaches to life. While Mori sees himself as a mentor who has provided Dazai with purpose, Dazai views Mori as a representation of the nihilistic values he seeks to escape, even as he carries elements of Mori’s influence with him.
A Divergence in Philosophical Legacy
Mori’s Existential Fulfillment: Mori has accepted his role and the meaning it provides, finding fulfillment in being useful to his organization and those he mentors. He sees his purpose as intrinsically tied to the Mafia and its survival, embracing the existentialist idea of crafting one’s own meaning.
Dazai’s Unresolved Search: Dazai, by contrast, remains on a journey. While he upholds Oda’s ideals and works to prevent further suffering, his personal search for meaning continues. His adherence to Oda’s philosophy serves as a temporary anchor, but it does not resolve the deeper existential void he feel
Philosophical and Emotional Parallels
Both Mori and Dazai grapple with existential questions and deep emotional struggles. Mori’s utilitarian philosophy contrasts with Dazai’s nihilistic tendencies, yet both share a dispassionate view of life shaped by past traumas. Their philosophical parallels—such as their calculated decision-making and detachment—offer insight into how they understand and navigate the world, as well as each other.
Emotional and Thematic Significance
The Mori-Dazai relationship encapsulates key themes in Bungou Stray Dogs, such as the complexities of mentorship, the search for purpose, and the human capacity for both care and harm.
Mentorship and Its Consequences: Mori’s mentorship of Dazai reveals the dual-edged nature of guidance. While Mori helped Dazai develop his abilities, he also deepened Dazai’s existential despair by failing to address his emotional needs.
Regret and Redemption: Mori’s acknowledgment of his inability to save Dazai adds a layer of tragedy to their relationship. It reflects the human capacity for regret and the limits of even the most powerful individuals.
Exploration of Care: The subtle ways Mori expresses his care for Dazai challenge the perception of him as a purely pragmatic leader. His actions in BEAST reveal a man struggling with his own emotional limitations while attempting to protect someone he values deeply.
Philosophical Tensions: The contrasting trajectories of Mori and Dazai’s nihilism underscore their differing approaches to life and meaning. While Mori seeks control and pragmatism, Dazai yearns for connection and hope.
Lingering Resentment: Dazai’s dislike of Mori is not rooted in pure malice but in disappointment and grief over Mori’s decisions, especially regarding Oda. This highlights the emotional depth of their relationship, where personal loss becomes a driving force for philosophical divergence.
About Oda, Mori and Dazai
Oda’s Death as a Defining Rift
The death of Oda Sakunosuke serves as a turning point in Dazai’s relationship with Mori, solidifying the philosophical and emotional gap between them.
The Catalyst for Change: Oda’s death was the final push that drove Dazai to leave the Port Mafia. Oda represented everything Dazai aspired to: kindness, morality, and a life free of violence. Mori’s decision to involve Oda in a situation that led to his death was, in Dazai’s eyes, the ultimate betrayal of those ideals.
A Symbol of Mori’s Philosophy: Mori’s role in Oda’s death highlights his cold, utilitarian approach to leadership. For Mori, sacrifices are necessary for the greater good of the organization, but for Dazai, Oda’s death was a needless loss that epitomized the Mafia’s inhumanity.
Lingering Resentment: Dazai’s dislike of Mori stems from this specific event, where Mori’s pragmatism clashed with Dazai’s emerging moral compass. While Dazai does not hate Mori as a person, he despises the values Mori represents and the decisions that led to Oda’s death.
Why Oda Was Not Dazai’s Father Figure
While Oda played a significant role in shaping Dazai’s moral compass, he was not a father figure to him—this role belonged to Mori.
Oda as a Moral Anchor: Oda was Dazai’s closest friend and moral guide, representing an ideal that Dazai aspired to but could not fully embody. Their relationship was built on mutual respect and understanding, but it lacked the hierarchical, formative dynamic that defines a father-son relationship.
Mori as the Father Figure: Mori, on the other hand, shaped Dazai’s identity during his formative years. He provided structure, mentorship, and a sense of purpose, albeit through a cold and often damaging approach. The father-son dynamic between Mori and Dazai is evident in Mori’s influence on Dazai’s worldview and decision-making, as well as Dazai’s complex feelings of admiration, resentment, and rebellion toward him.
Emotional Complexity: While Oda represented what Dazai wanted to become, Mori symbolized where he came from. Dazai’s philosophical evolution can be seen as a reaction against Mori’s influence, solidifying Mori’s role as the dominant paternal figure in his life.
Mori as a Father Figure
Mori’s role as a father figure to Dazai is fraught with imperfections. Unlike Mori’s nurturing guidance of Atsushi in BEAST, Mori’s approach is marked by manipulation and control. Despite these flaws, Mori’s attempts to guide and protect Dazai reflect a paternal instinct, albeit one filtered through the lens of power and utility. Dazai’s response—a mix of rebellion, resentment, and reluctant respect—illustrates the complexities of their father-son dynamic.
Parallelism in Mentorship Styles
Mori and Dazai's mentorship styles reflect their contrasting yet connected philosophies. Mori's mentorship within the Port Mafia emphasizes utilitarianism—prioritizing results over individuals. This approach influences Dazai during his time in the mafia, instilling a pragmatic and sometimes cold perspective. However, Dazai's mentorship in the Armed Detective Agency takes on a more nuanced tone, where he balances pragmatism with emotional insight. This dichotomy suggests Mori's indirect but lasting influence on Dazai’s leadership style, even as Dazai strives to distance himself from Mori's methods.
Trust and Betrayal Dynamics
Trust between Mori and Dazai is a delicate and complex theme. While Mori trusts Dazai's exceptional intelligence and values his contributions, there is an underlying awareness of Dazai's unpredictability. Dazai’s departure from the Port Mafia can be seen as a significant act of betrayal, undermining Mori's authority. This event shapes their relationship, introducing a dynamic where both characters maintain a wary respect for each other’s capabilities but remain inherently distrustful. Let's also not forget that Mori also betrayed Dazai, by giving the orphan's direction to Gide which the outcome was Oda dying.
Unspoken Affection
Mori’s care for Dazai often manifests in indirect ways, such as attempts to save him or ensure his survival. In BEAST, Mori’s decision to save Dazai highlights a paternal affection that he struggles to express openly. Conversely, Dazai’s acknowledgment or dismissal of Mori’s care adds another layer of complexity, as Dazai often deflects emotional connections. This dynamic underscores a relationship built on unspoken and unacknowledged bonds.
The Role of Power Dynamics
Power dynamics between Mori and Dazai shift significantly after Dazai leaves the Port Mafia. While Mori remains the leader of the mafia, Dazai’s growing influence in the Armed Detective Agency positions him as a formidable force outside Mori’s control. Mori’s perception of Dazai fluctuates between viewing him as a threat and as an invaluable former subordinate. This evolving dynamic highlights the tension between authority and independence.
Influence of BEAST Canon on the Main Timeline
In BEAST, Mori’s explicit desire to save Dazai sheds light on his deeper feelings, which may not be as overt in the main timeline. This alternate portrayal enriches the interpretation of their relationship, suggesting that Mori’s concern for Dazai transcends timelines. Speculating on how Mori might act in similar situations in the main timeline highlights the potential for hidden depth in his character.
Psychological Analysis
Both characters exhibit psychological scars that shape their interactions. Mori’s calculated and clinical approach stems from his utilitarian worldview, while Dazai’s nihilism and self-destructive tendencies reflect his inner turmoil. Their psychological profiles complement and clash, creating a relationship that is both symbiotic and adversarial.
As I'm getting close (well not that close, but I'm getting there) to the end of my Double Black Analysis, I was thinking about what I should do for my next project.
And I think...I think I want to analyze Dazai, not anime Dazai, though, I mean Dazai.
I've read No Longer Human, Flowers of Buffoonery, and The Setting Sun, and while No Longer Human is the only one here that's semi-autobiographical...I think Dazai projects onto Naoji a lot in The Setting Sun, I've been seeing some similarities between Naoji and Yozo. Flowers of Buffoonery is a precursor to No Longer Human, as it's the first mention of Yozo, but there's a lot of moment's where Dazai himself interrupts the narrative and again Dazai subtly projecting onto Yozo.
I'm probably going to reread The Setting Sun before I start this just to get a better understanding of it before I start any drafting. I just recently reread No Longer Human and the Gospel is helping me recall main events in that book anyway, and Flowers of Buffoonery was my most recent read.
Nothing set in stone yet, I'm just throwing ideas around. I could also connect everything back to anime Dazai, though I'm not 100% sure how I want to do it. We shall see I just think this is an interesting idea.
But another thing...to anyone that's read No Longer Human and Flowers of Buffoonery:
Did anyone else forget Yozo's name like midway through reading No Longer Human? I did, and I feel like this was done on purpose (or maybe my memory is failing me).
But like no seriously think about it for a second. In Flowers of Buffoonery, Dazai would separate Yozo and himself throughout the entire book by constantly switching narratives. It's almost like he would interrupt himself the minute things got too serious for him. It goes from Yozo's story to Dazai's ramblings/complaints/apologies back to Yozo's story.
But in No Longer Human, that wall was gone. Yozo and Dazai bled together, because this was Dazai's final testament. No more hiding, no more masks, no more abrupt interruptions. There were no apologies, because he was no longer sorry. It's almost like Dazai wanted the reader to forget about Yozo, because Dazai was bleeding through.
Literally just trying to get some assignments done and my brains is like hey remember this from No Longer Human, well what if it means this and then I go on a 2 hour scavenger hunt to confirm my thoughts its really funny.
Regarding Mori and Dazai’s relationship, the way I see it Mori giving Dazai so much power at such a young age, knowing how unstable Dazai was, was the abuse. I’m not even saying Mori had purely bad intentions, I think Mori projects a lot when it comes to Dazai so he thought that working for the PM, doing something he excels at, would fulfil Dazai as it fulfilled Mori, but it obviously did not. And BSD makes a point of showing the harm of children, but also young adults, having too much power and responsibility time and time again, so the way Mori basically let Dazai run wild seemed always sad to me because it’s not like Dazai’s guns were toys. Dazai was in charge of a lot of missions that got a lot of people killed or hurt. He literally let an emotionally impulsive teen play with guns and torture and whatnot. Also another thing we often see in BSD is how power is extremely isolating and alienating, so making Dazai, who already felt alienated from a lot of peers bc of his intelligence and depression, an executive only added to that. Anywayyy sorry for rambling but your post just made me think! Hope you have a lovely day!
no youre great anon! i believe that this is the beauty of dazai and moris relationship, its pretty ambiguous so it begs room for multiple interpretations. i think ive mentioned mori giving dazai so much power before as being part of the abuse, but the interpretation comes from why mori would want to give dazai so much power.
mori does have a constant problem of assuming dazai is just like him. its the exact reason why he assumes odas death would mean nothing to dazai, even though its very clear he has his own set of morals and values. i also think there might have been some personal intentions from it as well, almost as a way for mori to keep a closer eye on dazai, whether that was because mori is a controlling bastard or because he wanted dazai to be his successor is up in the air (i like to believe its a bit of both).
i also like the point of dazais teenage power play! ive called dazai in the mafia "the dumb decision of a fourteen year old" before, which is pretty much exactly what happened. mori knew how smart dazai was, but he also knew how impressionable he was. dazai definitely would never admit it, but he needed someone there for him. mori chose to fill that role for dazai as well as letting dazai do a lot of the hard work for him. pretty much moris signature.
this is such a good ask anon, a lot of people forget that dazai was really just a teenager in the mafia. i would imagine its like being a preteen in college. you look all big and smart and mature, which you absolutely are, but youre also the most alone you could ever be.
