Happy (belated) birthday, Kanan Matsuura!
You’re one of my best girls, and I don’t see that changing any time soon! I know that you tend to get a lot of flak from the fandom because of your actions in the anime, but I hope that others will look at other parts of your character and gain a newfound appreciation for you.
There are so many things that I adore about you. Where do I even start? For one, you never stop caring about others. When Aqours started making a splash in SIF, I partnered with different characters to try and get a better feel for what they were all about. You were one of the characters I was most drawn to. When I partnered with you, you’d always say something encouraging.
“You can always talk to me if you're worried about something.”
“I wonder what today's Goal is. I'll be there to support you.”
“When you just can't think of an answer to your problems, it's best to clear your mind and go to bed.”
As someone that would turn to SIF for escapism pretty often, hearing things like that would make me feel a bit better. I mentioned before that your actions in the anime are generally frowned upon (understandable), but you did what you did was because you were trying to look out for a friend. You’re always keeping an eye out for those that are dear to you. Like your fellow third-years, you’re an important sisterly figure to Aqours. While Mari is the fun big sis and Dia is the serious big sis, you fit perfectly in-between. Your cool, laid-back attitude and your ability to take charge when needed are what make you the perfect coach for the group. I wouldn’t expect anything less from Aqours’ former leader.
I love your ability to pull off both traditionally feminine and traditionally masculine looks so well. I hear that when Suwawa was auditioning for your role, she wore boyish clothing to emphasize the fact that you had a masculine side, and that’s nothing short of amazing! As someone that was given the ‘tomboy’ label growing up that also liked girly things, both styles appeal to me a lot. I get so hyped when you wear outfits like Universe, Loyal Knight, Duo/Trio Vol. 2, and your casual clothing because PANTS, but I also love how ethereal outfits like Mermaid and Wedding are. Although I’m curious about feminine clothing, I have doubts about how well I can pull things like that off. That’s why you rocking those looks is a huge inspiration. Your Bleu Rêvé side story is so great because even though you’re doubtful about your fashion sense, Yu and Mari encourage you to try out new styles, while emphasizing that there’s nothing wrong with the way that you currently dress, and that’s the kind of energy I admire.
Whether people love or hate your voice, I think that everyone can agree that there’s been notable improvement in recent songs. While SAKANAKANANDAKA? has always been my favorite of the initial solos, I have to admit that you sound even better in Motto ne!, and listening to your versions of songs made me love your voice more. Your voice is at its best when you’re singing at a range that doesn’t strain it, and, boy, does it sound amazing.
I could go on and on about things that I like about you, but, for brevity’s sake, I think I’ll end things here. You’re a phenomenal skygazing, scuba-diving sea goddess that deserves all of the hugs in the world! Keep on riding that wave, precious dolphin daughter! Hagu shiyou! 💚🐬
