We chose the word “LOVE” as the theme of our second issue. What does love mean in Japan in 2016? From passions to attitudes, we investigate what the “L” word evokes throughout the issue.
After our eight-hour cover shoot, we were moved by Mario Sorrenti’s simple confession, “I just love to take photos.” Though he has experienced and documented so much over years, he is still in love with it. For us, that epitomizes the true love that all creators have.
From feature interviews to Straight Ups, we hear subjects answer questions honestly and with love. They worry about the future but there is tremendous hope. We felt strength as the next generation shared its fearless attitude, inspiring others to really look around themselves.
There are countless wars, terrorist attacks, murder, and other heartbreaking news in this world today, so often caused by frictions around religion, race, and gender. In a country that is peaceful, it is important to stop and think about love, something that is all around us. It is important to discuss it out loud. It is a small step, and it may not immediately change the world, but it means something. Family, lovers, peers, fashion, music, work… the shape and form of love can be as different and as unique as all of us are. It will bring us much joy if this issue makes you think about love, even if it is just for a little bit.
Credits
Text Kazumi Asamura Hayashi