TL;DR
Shortcomings by Adrian Tomine is a graphic novel that explores the life of Ben Tanaka, a Japanese-American man grappling with cultural, sexual, and racial issues in modern America.
What is Shortcomings about
Shortcomings, written by Adrian Tomine, is a graphic novel that chronicles the journey of Ben Tanaka, a Japanese-American man in his late twenties, as he navigates personal and cultural challenges. The story delves into Ben's turbulent relationship with his girlfriend, Miko Hayashi, and his obsession with finding the perfect girl, often causing his eye to wander towards white women. The novel addresses themes of identity, racial politics, and sexual mores with Tomine's characteristic brutal honesty and irreverent humor. Serialized in Tomine's comic book series Optic Nerve, Shortcomings has garnered critical acclaim and a cult following.
Shortcomings 5 Key Takeaways
Ben Tanaka's Discontent
Ben is dissatisfied with various aspects of his life, including his relationship with his girlfriend, Miko. His critical and insensitive nature exacerbates their problems, leading to constant conflict.
Miko's Departure
Miko suspects Ben's wandering eye and eventually decides to move to New York for an internship, leaving Ben to confront his insecurities and biases alone.
Ben's Search for Contentment
Left alone, Ben embarks on a journey to find happiness and contentment. He encounters several women, but his deep-seated issues and prejudices continue to hinder his progress.
Conflict with Alice
Ben's best friend, Alice, who is openly gay, often acts as a sounding board for his frustrations. Their interactions highlight Ben's internal conflicts and the complexities of their friendship.
Realization and Reflection
As Ben's quest for the 'perfect girl' continues to falter, he is forced to confront his own shortcomings and the realities of his culturally influenced desires and prejudices.
Top Shortcomings Quotes
- 'You can't keep running away from your problems, Ben.'
- 'Why is it that you only seem to be interested in white women?'
Who should read Shortcomings?
Shortcomings is ideal for readers interested in graphic novels that tackle complex social issues with humor and honesty. It will resonate with those who appreciate nuanced character studies and are curious about the dynamics of modern relationships and racial identity.
Shortcomings Best Reviews
- 'Adrian Tomine's Shortcomings is a brilliant dissection of modern relationships and racial politics, presented with unflinching candor and wit.' - The New Yorker
- 'Tomine's graphic novel is a masterful portrayal of flawed characters, making it a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary social issues.' - Publishers Weekly
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Shortcomings FAQs
What is the story of the Shortcomings comic?
Shortcomings follows Ben Tanaka, a dissatisfied Japanese-American man, as he navigates his turbulent relationship with his girlfriend, Miko Hayashi, and his obsession with finding the perfect girl.
Who wrote Shortcomings?
Shortcomings was written by Adrian Tomine, an acclaimed cartoonist and graphic novelist.