AFTERWORD
GREETINGS, Makoto Inoue here. While working on this, the second novel in the Fullmetal Alchemist series, I spent many long days and nights with my head stuck firmly in Edward and Alphonse’s world, grinning like a maniac with every remembered character and chapter. How can thinking about a manga series make someone feel so happy?
It’s fun just to think about it, but it’s more fun going back through the manga and trying to find the answer to questions like “How would Edward say that?” And before I even know it, I’ve reread the entire series … again! The days do pass quickly, though, and I’m smiling all the way.
Thanks for reading my little contribution to the world of Fullmetal Alchemist, and if it didn’t bring a smile to your face, too … sorry about that!
I’D LIKE TO THANK the many people who helped me and whom, I’m afraid, I bothered greatly during the writing of this novel.
First of all, my greatest debt is to Arakawa Sensei herself. Sorry for pushing back the schedule so far, and thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to share your vast knowledge of the world you created.
I’d also like to thank the editor, Nomoto-san. Words can’t express my gratitude for all your help. You took me by the hand when I thought all was lost, and you let me know I wasn’t in this alone. It was like a light from heaven, shining down upon me, and it moved me to tears. Honest. You might think I’m exaggerating, but I’m not! That day, with your gentle voice and pretty smile, you were like unto a GODDESS to me! (Really!)
Thank you all so much. There were a lot of hiccups along the way, but I like to think I’ve learned from my mistakes! Again, I owe it all to Nomoto-san. The day this novel hits the shelves, be sure to give yourself a big pat on the back!
Now, for a brief change of subject to something more personal. In my line of work, I often find myself holed up in my house. This time, while I was working on the book, I thought I’d take my laptop to some elegant café and work there for a nice change of pace. I’m glad I didn’t, because recently, I’ve come to realize something about myself when I’m working. Something … bad.
Like I said above, when I’m writing, I tend to stop typing and just start grinning uncontrollably. I discovered while working on this book that even while I’m typing, my face and hands are constantly moving, playing out the scene I’m writing.
When I write a scene where Edward glares at his opponent, I’m glaring at the screen. When Roy is lost deep in thought, I type very softly, and the wrinkle between my brows furrows and deepens. When there’s not a lot of action going on, I type smoothly, but when I get into an action scene, I’m practically banging the life out of the keys.
You should have seen me when I was writing the scene where Gael goes all out! I smacked my keys with the force of every falling container and pounded the table with the breaking of every wall.
If I’d been sitting in a café, grinning evilly with every twist of dialogue, slamming my keyboard with every punch, I’d be sure to get some inquisitive comments from the wait staff, assuming I didn’t drive out all the other customers. So, I stay at home, typing away, and my elegant dreams of working in a stylish café remain only dreams. Sigh.
I realized it is my destiny to become an “Action Novelist”—not just a novelist who writes action novels, but one whose actions match the story they’re writing! I’d start writing afterword comments like “In preparation for the writing of this novel, I lifted weights for ten whole months and pounded my way through no fewer than five keyboards. Oops!” Actually … I kind of like the sound of that …
So, read on, dear reader, and I’ll be here, prepping for my new career as the world’s first Action Novelist. Look forward to hearing about my latest exploits in the next afterword! (I kid!)
IN CONCLUSION, I’d like to sincerely thank you, the reader, for spending your valuable time with my book. It’s all for you.
—MAKOTO INOUE
No Comments Yet
Post a new comment
Register or Login