Diletta
1968/08/14-1969/09/10
STORY
An unpopular manga artist, Otohiko Yamabe, is discovered in an apparent state of death beneath the ground of a construction site. When a doctor places a stethoscope on his chest, he faints due to Otohiko’s hidden ability to draw others into his imaginary world, Diletta. The imaginary world is generated only when a special super sound wave stimulates Otohiko’s encephalon and is amplified as electric waves. And the imaginary world can be shared with others via receivers. Meanwhile, Otohiko’s girlfriend, Kimiko Koshiji, possesses her unique ability; she transforms into a stunningly beautiful woman only when she gets hungry. Soon, Ichiro Monzen, a shrewd producer, sets his sights on the couple, planning to exploit their talents for a world-scale project.
DESCRIPTIONS
1968/08/14-1969/09/10 Serialized in Manga Sunday (Jitsugyono Nihonsha)
Among Osamu Tezuka's numerous works, some specifically targeted adult readers. These included "Rally Up, Mankind!" and "Fusuke," both of which featured intentionally simple and rough art styles, along with themes of eroticism and sarcasm. "Diletta", filled with gags that incorporate erotic elements and satire, would be categorized as one of them. Some readers accustomed to manga for younger audiences may find it excessive, but it is also a creation typical of Tezuka.
The work showcases the transformation of Kimiko’s appearance and Otohiko’s imaginary world, while the story explores themes of politics and media from that era. Indeed, things continuously change shape through the story. This focus on metamorphosis is a hallmark of Tezuka, which reflects his unique artistic vision.
