It is common to see works of fiction to be labeled by their thematic or narrative content, such as science fiction, fantasy, and mystery. Rarer, however, are genres that are defined primarily by the intended reaction of their audience, such as tragedy or horror. Iyashikei is one such genre specific to anime and manga. Iyashikei can be roughly translated to “healing type”, referring to the tendency of these works to put its audience in a calm, soothing state of mind. Many anime in this genre can also be labeled “slice of life”, such as Flying Witch, ARIA the Animation, and K-On!, but many others, such as Mushishi and Haibane Renmei, can include dramatic elements as well. Typically, however, these shows avoid conflict and a forward-driven plot, instead focusing on the simple pleasures of life. In anime, this is usually achieved by a synergy of setting, sound design, and character interactions. However, the manner in which these elements interact can be considered different approaches to the genre with divergent effects. Although the overall feeling of these shows is relaxed, the nuances of that feeling may, depending on the approach, veer more toward contentment, or perhaps toward melancholy. Such is the difference between the two anime Flying Witch and Mushishi. In these shows, the portrayal of their fantastical elements embodies two different kinds of healing – that of magic and medicine.
