Few manga have had such a deep impact as Nana, the iconic series by Ai Yazawa. Through its emotionally charged storytelling, authentic characters, and unforgettable themes, Nana became a landmark in manga history. But the series has remained on hiatus since 2009 due to Yazawa's health issues, leaving fans in a bittersweet state of iration and longing. While many hope for the series' return, accepting its current state as a masterpiece in its unfinished form is equally valid. Yazawa’s contributions to the manga world and her health remain more important than any conclusion.

Ai Yazawa's recent comments in interviews show her deep connection to Nana, calling it "the work of my life." These statements, combined with her apology for the ongoing hiatus, highlight both her dedication and the huge amount of pressure she faces from fans. Yazawa’s work has already left an indelible mark on her readers. While a continuation may never come, Nana deserves recognition for what it has achieved, regardless of its lack of closure.

The Start of Naha's Hiatus

How Nana's Story Was Paused By Unforeseen Circumstances

Nana Osaki and Nana Komatsu

Nana made a big impact on the manga world during its serialization, adored for its portrayal of love, heartbreak, and the pursuit of dreams. But in 2009, Yazawa was hospitalized due to an unspecified illness, which forced the manga into an indefinite hiatus. Though Yazawa has thankfully recovered enough to return home, the series has yet to continue.

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Yazawa has been very upfront about her inability to resume work on Naha, apologizing to fans for the long wait. Her vulnerability during interviews shows how much weight she carries as an artist. But her decision to prioritize her health shows her courage, especially in an industry that is known for its grueling demands on creators. The hiatus might feel like a loss to fans, but it shows the reality of valuing the artist's well-being over productivity.

The Cost Of Creativity On Health

Ai Yazawa's Struggles Highlight The Cost Of Creative Perfection

The insane success of Nana came at a big personal cost to Ai Yazawa. The demands of serializing manga, with its tight deadlines and long working hours, have pushed many creators to their limits. Yazawa is no exception. Her illness is a much-needed reminder of how unrelenting the manga and anime industry can be, even for the most successful artists.

Yazawa's transparency about her health has given fans a peak at the challenges faced by manga creators. While the hiatus of Nana has been difficult for its fanbase, it is also an amazing opportunity to advocate for better work conditions and greater empathy towards artists. For Yazawa, stepping back from the industry was a necessary act for the sake of her health and one that should be met with understanding and gratitude rather than disappointment.

Nana's Legacy Is A Masterpiece Unfinished

Even Without An Ending, Nana Is Timeless

While the story of Nana remains incomplete, it has already achieved legendary status. The manga's raw and realistic depiction of romance, friendship, and ambition made a huge impact on readers around the world. Its ability to show joy and despair equally proves that, even in its hiatus state, Nana stands as one of the greatest manga ever created.

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Ai Yazawa's work continues to inspire fans and creators alike. The recent resurgence of interest in her artwork, from exhibitions to interviews, shows the lasting impact of her storytelling. Rather than focusing on the unfinished ending of the manga, fans should be celebrating Nana for the emotions it teaches people and the ways it has changed the manga industry for the better. The series may never recover, but its legacy will be forever.

It Is Okay To Let Nana Rest

Why Letting Nana Go Is A Form Of Appreciation

Nana Osaki with a cigarette in her mouth from the anime adaptation of Nana

Nana fans will always have the lingering hope for closure. But it is so important to that Ai Yazawa has already given the world an extraordinary gift through her art. Her health and happiness should always take precedence over the demands of her audience. Whether or not the story continues, Nana is and will remain a masterpiece and a testament to Yazawa's brilliance and the depth of her creativity.

As Yazawa herself once said, Nana was "the work of my life." That alone is enough. Letting Nana rest unfinished may feel bittersweet, but it also allows us to appreciate it for what it is as a series that has already changed the lives of countless readers. In accepting its hiatus, fans honor both the artist and the art.

Nana (2006)

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Nana
Release Date
2006 - 2007
Directors
Morio Asaka
Writers
Tomoko Konparu
  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Rebecca Shoichet
  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Kelly Sheridan

WHERE TO WATCH

Streaming

Nana is a Japanese anime television series based on the manga of the same name by Ai Yazawa. The show follows the lives of two women named Nana who meet on a train to Tokyo and end up living together. While they share the same name, their personalities, ambitions, and backgrounds are vastly different, unfolding a narrative of friendship, love, and the pursuit of their dreams in the bustling city.

Franchise(s)
Nana
Seasons
1
Streaming Service(s)
Hulu, HIDIVE
Main Genre
Drama
Creator(s)
Ai Yazawa