Kiki's Delivery Service: why did Kiki stop understanding the cat? - briefly
In "Kiki's Delivery Service," Kiki stops understanding the cat, Jiji, because she loses her confidence and self-belief after failing at her job. As a witch, Kiki's ability to communicate with her familiar is directly tied to her emotional state and self-assurance.
Kiki's Delivery Service: why did Kiki stop understanding the cat? - in detail
"Kiki's Delivery Service," a beloved animated film directed by Hayao Miyazaki, presents a compelling narrative about a young witch named Kiki who loses her ability to communicate with her black cat, Jiji. This intriguing plot point is pivotal in Kiki's journey and serves as a metaphor for the challenges of adolescence and self-discovery.
The story unfolds as Kiki, following tradition, leaves home at the age of 13 to live independently for a year. Initially, Jiji can speak, acting as Kiki's confidant and advisor. However, as Kiki struggles with her new environment and the pressures of running a delivery service, she begins to lose touch with her feline companion. This loss of communication is not arbitrary but rather a reflection of Kiki's internal turmoil.
Kiki's inability to understand Jiji symbolizes her growing isolation and disconnection from her childhood self. As she navigates the complexities of adulthood, the simplicity and comfort of her childhood relationship with Jiji become increasingly distant. This metaphorical distancing underscores Kiki's emotional journey as she grapples with responsibility, loneliness, and self-doubt.
Moreover, the loss of communication with Jiji occurs during a period when Kiki is overwhelmed by her delivery service commitments and the expectations placed upon her. This stress manifests in her inability to understand Jiji, highlighting how external pressures can hinder one's ability to maintain connections with their past.
The film subtly conveys that as individuals grow and face new challenges, the familiar comforts of childhood may seem foreign or difficult to grasp. This theme is poignantly illustrated through Kiki's relationship with Jiji, offering a profound commentary on the complexities of transitioning into adulthood.
In conclusion, "Kiki's Delivery Service" uses the loss of Kiki's ability to understand Jiji as a powerful narrative device. This change signifies Kiki's emotional and psychological growth, emphasizing the challenges of leaving childhood behind. Through this metaphor, Miyazaki masterfully captures the essence of adolescence and the struggles that accompany self-discovery.