The Summit of the Gods: A Graphic Journey into Obsession
The graphic narrative The Summit of the Gods, created by Jiro Taniguchi and Baku Yumemakura, stems from a fortuitous discovery. The protagonist, Fukamachi, stumbles upon an ancient photographic camera that might have belonged to George Mallory, the famous mountaineer who vanished on Everest in 1924. This clue triggers an investigation that quickly turns into a fixation on unraveling a historical mystery. 🏔️
The Search for a Ghost on the Mountain
Fukamachi's investigation does not focus solely on the past, but leads him to Habu Joji, a nearly mythical figure in the world of Japanese alpinism, known for his reclusive nature and solo ascents. The work uses this encounter to explore the limits of human determination, showing how a simple curiosity can become a vital necessity. The narrative delves into what drives someone to risk everything to conquer the unattainable.
Central Plot Elements:- The discovery of Mallory's camera as the story's trigger.
- The obsessive pursuit of the photographer for the elusive climber Habu Joji.
- The analysis of passion and sacrifice in extreme mountaineering.
The mountains in this work are not a backdrop, but a living and terrifying character.
Taniguchi's Tangible Realism
Jiro Taniguchi's artistic style is fundamental to conveying the essence of the story. His linework is characterized by a