The fourth episode of Given was serene. It felt like a big, endless date with shopping, laughs, and Mafuyu getting even cuter! Let’s move on to the plot and take a closer look at the episode!

Plot

In this episode, we hardly saw any plot development; nothing major happened. However, we got to know the characters even better. There were some heartwarming scenes, like the one where Ritsuka was struggling to write Mafuyu’s song or when the band was gathered in the cafe, talking about their music tastes and how they affect their art. I found it strange that there’s someone unfamiliar with UK Rock. I don’t know if it’s because this term is rarely used in Japan or if there are people who just don’t know anything about western classic rock.

When it comes to Mafuyu, I wonder what other secrets he’s hiding, except for the obvious one. I’m looking forward to see more of his past and I hope that the upcoming revelations won’t change his relationship with Ritsuka. They are an adorable couple. I ship them and I’d like their crush to end well. Hopefully, jealousy won’t get in the way. But, we all know that a certain girl is up for no good…

I was expecting to see Mafuyu’s first day at work, but it seems like I’ll have to wait!

Episode Highlights

Finale: The ending came like a wrecking ball. We got to see a glimpse of Mafuyu’s past, probably a memory that has to do with his old boyfriend. I hope that his fresh start won’t be ruined by gossip and rumors…

Shopping: Unfortunately, it was almost impossible for me to pick up another highlight, cause nothing important happened. Thus, I will settle for the shopping scene. Mafuyu and Ritsuka seemed quite happy and carefree, making me feel a certain kind of nostalgia for my teen days. Their interactions seemed natural, pleasant, and so kawaii.

Themes & Trivia

Episode Title: This episode’s title, ‘Fluorescent Adolescent’ refers to a song by Arctic Monkeys, an English indie-Rock band, that was released in Japan in 2007, four days before its release in the United Kingdom. Are you curious about the songs behind the rest of the episodes’ titles? Well, Episode one ‘Boys in the Band’ is a studio album by Long John Baldry and it was released in late 1980. Episode two ‘Like Someone in Love’ is a popular song composed in 1944 by Jimmy Van Heusen. Episode three ‘Somebody Else’ is a tribute to a song from the second album of the English rock band The 1975.

Comments

Nothing important occurred in this episode and I felt kinda mehhh while watching it. It was in a slice-of-life style and everything unfolded slowly and a little bit wearily. There were moments where I found it hard to keep my eyes open, though I have to admit that it’s a relaxing and easy-going series. Given is perfect to watch after a hard day, because it has its way of making you feel relaxed and happy. Plus, it’ll make you wanna buy an electric guitar and start a band of your own. When it comes to the ending though, it was very unexpected and it seems like we’ll get to see some interesting backstories in the next episode. I’m looking forward to them!

‘I’m glad you found what you wanted…’

What is your opinion about this slow-paced episode? Are you hyped for the upcoming revelations? Can’t wait to read your opinion here, in MANGA.TOKYO!

Given

Summer 2019 | Anime Info | Simulcast