Not Be a Rabid Otaku
Otakus are everywhere in this world. In case you do not know what an Otaku is, in Japan, the word can be most closely equated to the English word “geek,” but the meaning is not as simple as that. Otaku is also defined in Japan as a word that defines a person who has obsessive interests, and can apply to a wide variety of topics, including anime, manga, cosplay, collectibles and more. The following is to restrain yourself from becoming a rabid and out of hand, Otaku.
Steps
- It's perfectly all right to be a fan of Japanese culture (or any other culture) but don't be overly obsessed and rant on and on about the Japanese culture like it's the best thing in the world.
- Don't scream on about Yaoi or Yuri (besides, most people might think that it's creepy.), as that annoys people when you just rant on about how you like *insert anime character*.
- Don't be a snob and go "Oh ho ho, that's not *insert mistaken Japanese story/food/whatever* that's *insert actual Japanese story/food/whatever*". That shows that you're trying to act like you know everything. Instead, politely correct them, don't shout out like they broke a million dollar vase.
- Don't rant on about how *insert shows* are the best shows in the world.
- Don't have all your conversations revolve around anime and manga. Nobody, not even your fellow otaku, likes talking about the same thing every single day!
- If people don't know what anime/manga is... Politely explain what it is instead of freaking out and screaming, "OMG! You don't know what anime is????"
- When talking to others, do not compare a dub version of an anime to it's original Japanese counterpart. There is really no evidence of how good the Japanese actors are unless you know Japanese. Plus, many people find "like OMG!!! the dub sucks! the subs are so much better!!!" really irritating, especially if it's in your or their native language. (i.e. English)
Tips
- It's okay to import games, clothes, snacks, and all that from Japan. Remember, just don't go around acting like it's a super big deal. Just state that it's from Japan, and go on.
- It's okay to be a fan of yaoi or yuri, just never force your opinions on others.
- Respect others' opinions. Would you like to be yelled at over YOUR favorite anime/manga?
- Be wary when viewing certain anime such as Hentai; as with yaoi/yuri, some people may be alarmed or disturbed.
