What is Doujindesu?
The term “Doujindesu” is a combination of two Japanese words: “doujin” meaning “fan” and “shi” meaning “book.” Thus, “Doujindesu” can be roughly translated as “fanbook”. In the context of anime and manga fandom, Doujindesu refers to the hobby of collecting, creating, and reading doujinshi—self-published or fan-made works that center around anime, manga, and other pop culture genres.
The History of Doujindesu
Doujinshi has deep roots in Japanese subcultures, particularly within the manga and anime communities. The origins of doujinshi trace back to the early 20th century when amateur artists began producing and distributing their own versions of popular manga and anime series. Initially, doujinshi were handmade, often photocopied and distributed at conventions or small gatherings.
In the 1970s and 1980s, with the rise of anime conventions like Comiket (Comics Market), doujinshi culture began to expand. These gatherings became platforms for doujinshi creators to showcase their works to wider audiences. By the 1990s, the internet allowed doujinshi creators to connect globally, making their works more accessible to international fans.
How to Make Doujindesu
Creating doujinshi has become more accessible due to the rise of digital tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make your own doujinshi:
- Choose a Concept:
Decide on a theme, genre, or series you want to create your doujinshi around. This could be based on popular anime, manga, or original content. - Gather Materials:
Collect reference materials, such as manga pages, anime screenshots, and your own creative ideas. - Write the Story:
Create a storyline or script that aligns with your chosen concept. Ensure it reflects your style, whether you prefer romance, action, comedy, or fantasy. - Design and Illustrate:
Draw or design the artwork for your doujinshi. You can either create physical illustrations or use digital tools for manga-style art. - Publish and Distribute:
Once your doujinshi is complete, you can print and distribute it at conventions, online platforms, or through self-publishing services.
The Benefits of Doujindesu
- Creative Expression:
Doujindesu allows fans to channel their passion for anime and manga into creative projects, helping them develop artistic and storytelling skills. - Community Building:
It fosters a sense of community and connection among fans, as creators and readers come together to celebrate shared interests. - Cultural Preservation and Innovation:
By contributing unique takes on existing stories or creating original works, doujinshi ensures the longevity and evolution of anime and manga culture. - Personal Satisfaction and Recognition:
Creating doujinshi can lead to personal satisfaction, as well as recognition within the fan community, particularly at conventions and online platforms.
How to Use Doujindesu
- Reading and Enjoying Doujinshi:
You can read doujinshi online or in-person at conventions, using platforms dedicated to fan-created content like Pixiv, MangaDex, or specialized doujinshi websites. - Collecting and Archiving:
Fans often collect doujinshi as part of their anime and manga collections, preserving them for future enjoyment. - Supporting Artists:
Supporting doujinshi creators through likes, comments, and purchases helps sustain their work and encourages more creativity within the community.
The Different Types of Doujindesu
- Fan-made Doujinshi:
These are unofficial manga or comic-style works based on existing anime or manga series, often serving as alternative or continuation stories. - Original Doujinshi:
Completely original works created by fans, often exploring genres or themes that may not have been explored in the source material. - Parody Doujinshi:
Comedic or satirical works that parody or playfully reinterpret characters or events from anime/manga. - Erotic Doujinshi:
Adult-themed works often created by more mature audiences, focusing on mature or adult themes.
The Future of Doujindesu
As anime and manga continue to grow in global popularity, the culture of Doujindesu is expected to evolve further.
- Digital Doujinshi:
With the rise of digital art and distribution platforms, doujinshi creators will have even greater reach and flexibility to showcase their works. - Increased Accessibility:
More fans worldwide will have access to doujinshi, contributing to a more diverse range of content. - Community Expansion:
The doujinshi community is likely to expand, fostering more creators, genres, and collaborations as anime and manga continue to inspire new generations.
Conclusion
Doujindesu is not just a hobby—it’s a vital part of the anime and manga fan experience. From the rich history of self-published fanbooks to the digital creations of today, doujinshi allows fans to express their creativity, connect with like-minded individuals, and keep the spirit of anime and manga alive. Whether you’re a fan seeking new content or a creator ready to showcase your talents, Doujindesu remains a fascinating and ever-evolving part of fandom culture.
