Finding Resonance

"Violet Evergarden," an emotionally charged anime series created by Kana Akatsuki and illustrated by Akiko Takase, has captivated audiences with its poignant exploration of love, loss, and the journey towards self-discovery. While set in a fictional world, the themes and experiences depicted in the series bear striking parallels to the real-world struggles of individuals, including those of veteran soldiers in the United States. In this article, we will delve into the ways in which Violet Evergarden's journey resonates with the experiences and emotions of veteran soldiers, highlighting the universal themes of healing, identity, and the pursuit of purpose.

Violet Evergarden, the titular character, is a former soldier who endured the physical and emotional tolls of war. Similarly, many veterans in the U.S. carry both visible and invisible scars from their time in service. The series' portrayal of Violet's prosthetic arms as a constant reminder of her past trauma mirrors the challenges faced by veterans dealing with physical injuries sustained during their military service. The psychological impact of war is a central theme in both Violet Evergarden's narrative and the experiences of many veterans. Violet's struggle with understanding and processing her emotions echoes the challenges faced by those grappling with PTSD. The series sensitively portrays the complexities of mental health, providing a platform for viewers, including veterans, to relate to Violet's journey of healing.

Violet Evergarden embarks on a journey to redefine her identity and self-worth outside the context of war. This theme aligns with the experiences of veterans transitioning to civilian life. The process of finding purpose beyond the military, establishing a new identity, and redefining one's sense of self-worth is a universal struggle that resonates with those who have served. As Violet endeavors to integrate into society and discover her place in a world no longer defined by conflict, her experiences mirror the challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life. Adapting to a different environment, establishing new routines, and navigating societal expectations are shared struggles that add layers of relatability to the series for veterans.

Violet Evergarden's struggle with understanding and expressing her emotions reflects a common difficulty faced by veterans in articulating their feelings. The series explores the power of written words as a means of communication, offering a metaphor for the challenges and triumphs veterans encounter in conveying their emotions, experiences, and innermost thoughts. The narrative in "Violet Evergarden" is deeply intertwined with the theme of reconnecting with loved ones. Violet's attempts to bridge emotional gaps with those around her parallel the challenges faced by veterans in rebuilding connections strained by the demands of military service. The series illustrates the transformative impact of sincere communication in healing relationships—a message that resonates with veterans seeking reconnection.

Violet's role as an Auto Memory Doll, a letter writer who helps others express their emotions, mirrors the healing journey of veterans who find solace in serving their communities post-military service. Engaging in meaningful work and helping others can be a powerful catalyst for healing, providing a sense of purpose and fulfillment reminiscent of Violet's journey. Many veterans find purpose in continued service through civilian roles, contributing their skills and experiences to various fields. The series' exploration of Violet's growth through her work as an Auto Memory Doll draws parallels to the fulfillment veterans can experience when channeling their expertise and resilience into civilian pursuits.

Violet Evergarden's journey is marked by the profound loss of her mentor and comrades, a theme that resonates deeply with the experiences of veterans who have lost fellow service members. The series explores the complexities of grief, portraying Violet's struggle to come to terms with the deaths of those she cared about—a process mirrored by veterans coping with the loss of their military family. The act of writing letters in "Violet Evergarden" serves as a form of memorializing the lives of those who have passed away. Similarly, veterans often engage in rituals and practices to honor and remember fallen comrades. The series underscores the importance of preserving memories and stories, offering a poignant reflection on the enduring impact of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

"Violet Evergarden" stands as a testament to the universality of human experiences, transcending cultural and fictional boundaries. The series' exploration of trauma, identity, connection, service, and grief resonates with veteran soldiers in the U.S. who navigate similar challenges in the aftermath of war. By depicting Violet's journey with empathy and nuance, the series provides a narrative that invites reflection, fosters understanding, and reinforces the shared narratives that connect individuals, whether fictional characters or real-world veterans, in their pursuit of healing and purpose.