“You Can Become a Hero”, Yuki Hayashi
One of these days, I’m going to write a proper blog post about the musical storytelling in this series, because good God, it plays a vital part. But today, I’ll just focus on this piece. (Minor note: too many versions of this I find on the internet cut out the first part, which is a real shame.)
We all know the scene. The first episode, when Toshinori decides to bequeath One for All to Izuku. And the first time I saw this episode, I was very much living in that moment. It was powerful. I was waiting, right next to Izuku, with bated breath, hoping, praying, that this figure (who we had just met but (if you’re like me) quickly fell in love with) would grant his approval, would say exactly what Izuku needed to hear.
And he did and the music swelled and you know when you give that deep--almost painful--sigh of relief? When you realize your dream is finally coming true? Oh yeah.
Now, knowing what we know four seasons later and almost 300 manga chapters in, go back. Listen again. And think about this. This wasn’t just Izuku’s moment. I guarantee you Izuku wasn’t the only one breathing that heavy sigh of relief, thinking, “oh thank God, oh thank God, it’s finally happened.”
Right about here. Time freezes for a split second before the world changes forever. Toshinori taking a mental deep breath, heart might be speeding up, he’s excited, he’s finally found the kid. And it feels right. Things are going to be ok now and One for All can continue on.
