How Gon & Killua’s Friendship Taught Me the True Power of Vulnerability

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In my younger years, I was taught that the importance of friendships lies not in their number but in their quality. It’s about nurturing these connections deeply so they can find a home in my heart. However, being headstrong as a kid, this lesson didn’t fully sink in until later in life. Growing up in a small town in the mid-south, I longed for belonging, and once I reached maturity, I started traveling from one place to another, hoping to find where I truly fit in.

As a young adult, I opted for a nomadic lifestyle which held its perks, but it was also overwhelmingly solitary – almost isolating me from forming deep connections with others. I erected barriers and settled comfortably within them, alone. However, my secluded existence took a turn when I stumbled upon the anime “Hunter x Hunter“. It drastically altered my cynical perspective on life, primarily due to the profound portrayal of friendship between Gon and Killua. Their unwavering bond of trust and affection significantly influenced their surroundings.

Warning: Spoilers Ahead for Hunter x Hunter!

Gon & Killua’s Friendship Changed My Perspective On What It Means To Be a Friend

There’s no denying that Gon and Killua are among the most memorable duos in the anime world, striking a chord with fans everywhere, including myself. The strength of their friendship is vividly portrayed when Gon determines to journey to Kukuroo Mountain to free Killua from his family’s grasp. This scene, which unfolds after the initial climax on the Hunter Exam arc, carries immense emotional weight – Gon has witnessed firsthand the formidable might of the Zoldyck family under Illumi’s control. Yet, instead of being deterred by this potential peril, Gon feels compelled to act. He understands that he must stand by Killua and demonstrate that there’s a vast world beyond their immediate reach, a world where Killua deserves to explore.

In today’s world where interactions often feel commercialized, it can be challenging to genuinely empathize with others without truly understanding their backgrounds. However, a scene from an anime powerfully illustrates this concept: when Gon finally manages to open the gigantic, intricate door that had long separated the Zoldyck family from the rest of society. This mountain fortress is presented as a spectacle, yet no one ever tries to connect due to fear. But unlike others, Gon is determined to break down every barrier to show Killua and the Zoldycks that life can improve if they embrace good experiences.

During the renowned Chimera Ant Arc, Killua reciprocates a favor for Gon. This arc, being the most memorable and significant in the entire series, is filled with pivotal moments that significantly change the trajectory of the world in Hunter x Hunter. Here, we witness Gon at his darkest point. Although Gon’s wrath towards the Ants, stemming from Kite’s grisly demise at Neferpitou’s hands, is understandable, this is the first time Killua sees Gon sink to his lowest. It’s an uneasy sight, and despite Killua being accustomed to violence due to his upbringing, he recognizes that what Gon is experiencing isn’t typical of him. Even during the instance when Gon ultimately avenges Kite by killing Neferpitou in “Anger x and x Light”, because we experience these events through Killua’s viewpoint, it doesn’t bring a sense of satisfaction.

Killua’s death doesn’t bring satisfaction because he understands the pain Gon is enduring beneath his anger. The aftermath of Gon’s emotional collapse permeates throughout the series’ final act, yet Killua’s commitment to supporting his friend transcends mere patience and healing. Instead of fleeing to the Zoldyck residence as an escape, he now returns to confront his past squarely and accept his true identity so that he can effectively stand by Gon during his time of need. This time, returning home means facing old demons head-on, unraveling family secrets hidden within the show’s narrative, and ultimately becoming the genuine friend Gon requires.

Gon and Killua’s Friendship Taught Me That To Be Vulnerable Is To Be Strong

In the final stages of Madhouse’s adaptation of Hunter x Hunter, what really stood out to me was the way Alluka’s revelation served to highlight Killua’s character development throughout the series. It became apparent that he had developed a deep affection for Gon and his sister Alluka, which he now freely expressed. This heartfelt moment made me ponder my own friendships, encouraging me to reconsider the emotional investment I place in these relationships and learn to appreciate people for who they truly are.

In the final episode of “Hunter x Hunter,” it’s heart-wrenching to see Gon and Killua part ways, each pursuing their unique paths. Yet, their bond remains indestructible, as demonstrated by their ability to bid farewell, which speaks volumes about their deep connection. The series stands out due to the sincerity and empathy shown in its character relationships, particularly the enduring friendship between Gon and Killua. Their story has instilled in me a valuable lesson: when we must part ways, it’s not really a goodbye, but rather a ‘see you later.’

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2025-03-23 23:45