Hayao Miyazaki’s Mythic Poetics

Hayao Miyazaki’s Mythic Poetics: Experiencing the Narrative Persuasions in Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle and Ponyo

Cheng-Ing Wu

Cheng-Ing Wu's analysis of Studio Ghibli films offers a captivating exploration of the underlying themes and poetic nuances within these cinematic masterpieces. The author weaves together insights from various disciplines, such as animation studies, psychology, and mythological analysis, to provide a profound understanding of the films' storytelling. Wu's work delves into three Studio Ghibli films: "Spirited Away," "Howl’s Moving Castle," and "Ponyo."

In "Spirited Away," Wu uncovers the heroic poetics at play, where Chihiro's journey symbolizes the profound and mundane aspects of self-actualization. As the protagonist transitions from an immature and unstimulated young girl to a courageous and determined individual, her encounters with gigantic spirits and struggles at work represent her path towards maturity. Chihiro's relationship with the guide, Haku, serves as emotional support and guidance, enabling her to confront challenges with determination. The pivotal train scene symbolizes her journey through time and growth, steadily approaching her goals. Through her efforts and self-discovery, Chihiro breaks free from Yubaba's contract, regains her true name, and returns to her world with her parents, embodying a transformative experience of personal growth.

In the analysis of "Howl’s Moving Castle," Wu focuses on the animated poetics of space, presenting the cinematic castle as a symbol of Howl's psyche. As the castle's interior represents Howl's dusty and neglected subconscious, Sophie's connection with the castle enables her access to Howl's emotions and inner struggles. Howl's changing moods are visually portrayed through alterations in the castle's structure, mirroring the impact of war on Howl's secure and idealized space. Amidst the yearning for a home and the anxieties of war, the film highlights the importance of family and emotional growth. Wu's exploration of the constructed spaces within the film provides a profound understanding of the characters' inner worlds and emotional journeys.

For "Ponyo," Wu explores the narrative dialectics of mundanity and transcendence, deftly weaving Eastern and Western elements in the film. The story, based on Hans Christian Andersen's 'The Little Mermaid,' introduces Ponyo, a goldfish with magical powers, whose interactions with Sozuke blur the boundaries between the ordinary and the supernatural. Ponyo's transformation into a human and the unleashing of a powerful tsunami showcase the juxtaposition of everyday life and mythical occurrences. Wu's analysis of Ponyo's journey resonates with viewers through Miyazaki's visual rhetoric, evoking childhood memories and emotions. The film reframes the classic mermaid tale, creating a well-balanced and enchanting cinematic experience that emphasizes the significance of family, the natural world, and the power of words.

One reason why I picked this article to summarize is my fascination with Studio Ghibli films, which often exhibit cryptic or confounding elements alongside non-traditional narrative structures. These films tend to leave a lasting impression on viewers, inviting them to explore deeper layers of meaning. Cheng-Ing Wu's analysis contributes to this exploration by shedding light on one essential aspect behind the films' enduring impact: their connection to universal human experiences and the profound and yet relatable journey of inner transformation that occurs within every individual.

Notably, Cheng-Ing Wu's analysis avoids a rigid adherence to prescribed hero's journey steps on an external level, instead emphasizing the inner symbolic journey of the human psyche. This approach represents a responsible integration of Jungian psychology and Joseph Campbell's theories, making it relevant to current discourse on archetypes and gender representation in storytelling. Wu's examination of the characters' psychological depth and the subtleties in their arcs showcases the films' complexity beyond conventional hero narratives. It unveils the extraordinary depths of personal growth and self-discovery inherent in the human experience, which resonates with viewers on a subconscious level.

Cheng-Ing Wu's analysis of Studio Ghibli films is a captivating exploration of the artistry and thematic depth present in "Spirited Away," "Howl’s Moving Castle," and "Ponyo." By shedding light on the films' poetic and philosophical dimensions, Wu enhances the audience's appreciation of the studio's delightful and potentially confounding works, making it a rewarding read for animation enthusiasts, cinema scholars, and fans of Studio Ghibli's storytelling.


Sources
Wu, C.-I. (2016). Hayao Miyazaki’s Mythic Poetics: Experiencing the Narrative Persuasions in Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle and Ponyo. Animation, 11(2), 189–203. https://doi-org.ezproxy.langara.ca/10.1177/1746847716643777