Kabukichou Bad Trip
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Nagisa Eiji
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CW: BDSM, power plays, lost of agency, kink, Boy's love
A kind Internet stranger recommended I read this manga after sharing a list of opinions in the queer manga space. She did preface it with a warning about BDSM and power play.
I have no knowledge of the sex scene; kink stuff doubly so, but I am endlessly fascinated by it. I kind of think about sex in a similar way I imagine dichromats view full-spectrum colour, or how the hearing-impaired view sound. Does that sound right? Because sex is so natural to many and dictates a lot of daily life sotto voce and, without a basic understanding, life is complicated by not fitting in.
Miyama has the ability to read people and has used this to great affect; taking him from a simple country boy to being a great host in the city.
T/N: In Japan, a host/hostess/hostex is a high-end entertainer. Hostess clubs are frequented by fans of the hosts, ordinary businessfolk, and people wanting the cabaret nightlife. A good host, one who is receptive, responsive, and most importantly attractive, can earn a lot of money and underground fame.
Miyama, like most hosts, uses a nom de guerre. The name he chose comes from a fashion model and idol who Miyama worships: Mizuki.
The two bump into one another anime-first and form a lustful friendship, but while Miyama-kun is grateful for the experiences his new friend can bring, he's scared of his idol. Miyama can see Mizuki's desire: To dominate Miyama in very colourful, assertive, aggressive ways.
After a clumsy but honest conversation, the two talk about and experiment with the dom-sub relationship. The idea of handing my agency over to another is scary and quite repellent, but the way it's depicted in this manga, I totally understand how trusting partners can form this type of bond. The care, love, and attention was eye-opening to someone who knew little of this lifestyle beyond dismissive hand-waving.
The art is gorgeous, the exploration of desire and compromise, and the compassion shown makes this a scary read, but a damned good one.
Compared to my usual tastes, this is really out-there. And I'm glad I pushed boundaries a little.