Understanding Physics in Fiction

In the realm of storytelling, especially in anime, the laws of physics play a critical role. Fantasy worlds captivate us because they allow for extraordinary events: characters with supernatural abilities can soar through the skies, children can manipulate water with mere thoughts, and sports teams often achieve global fame after just a year of training. While some of these scenarios may seem plausible in fiction, they defy our understanding of reality, where attempts at flight have historically failed and telekinesis remains a myth rather than a reality.

The real world operates within the confines of established physical laws, which define what is feasible. For instance, gravity consistently attracts objects towards the center of any planet. No matter where you venture in the universe, you will never encounter a planet that repels its inhabitants. These foundational principles can be complex, yet they underpin all scientific disciplines, including chemistry (which explains the mechanics of flight for a butterfly versus a human), biology (how organisms function), and neuroscience (the capabilities and limitations of the brain).

At first glance, one might argue that these laws hold little significance when crafting fiction. After all, fiction is meant to be imaginative and can disregard real-world constraints. Particularly in narratives where characters possess extraordinary abilities such as flight, one might think the laws of gravity could simply be ignored. However, I would contend that the situation is more intricate than that.

In most superhero narratives, the ability to fly is portrayed as an exception rather than the norm. While certain heroes may soar through the air or perform incredible leaps from great heights without harm, the majority of characters still adhere to the laws of gravity. Ordinary individuals cannot leap five meters into the air, and when a ball is thrown, it will eventually return to the ground rather than inexplicably ascend into the sky. This adherence to physical laws is crucial as it fosters relatability for the audience, highlighting what makes these superhuman characters remarkable.

Although the laws in fiction don’t necessarily have to mirror those of our world, maintaining some level of consistency can enhance the narrative by keeping the focus on the essential elements of the story, rather than confusing the audience with extraneous details. For instance, envision a typical high school romance brimming with unreciprocated feelings and teenage angst—a common anime trope. Now, imagine if the characters defied physics and walked on ceilings while inside. While amusing as a one-off gag, if this quirk serves no narrative purpose, it detracts from the storyline. Viewers may find themselves fixated on the ceiling-walking phenomenon rather than the intended romance and drama, leading to dissatisfaction when the story fails to address this oddity.

This exaggeration illustrates a significant point: altering the laws of nature for mere whimsy can be detrimental. Such changes can be effective for comedic effect or to amplify dramatic moments, but they often muddle the viewer's understanding unless they are integral to the story's universe. A prime example is found in the anime Id:Invaded, where the protagonist awakens in a space where gravity seems to have no effect; the environment is fragmented like a puzzle awaiting assembly. This disorienting scenario is shared by both the protagonist and the audience, fostering a sense of mystery. As the episode unfolds, the audience gradually learns more about this unusual reality.

In Id:Invaded, we witness traffic lights, signs, and entire rooms defying gravity, creating a disorienting experience for the viewer. [Official art from Id:Invaded, created by NAZ studio, directed by Ei Aoki.]

When constructing a fantasy universe, creators typically adopt one of two approaches: altering the laws of physics or transcending the existing laws within that universe. Both methods offer distinct advantages and can even be combined, or ignored entirely, in realistic narratives.

The first approach provides greater creative freedom, allowing for scenarios where individuals can breathe underwater, exist in outer space, or traverse clouds without needing elaborate explanations. Characters engage with these fantastical elements as if they are commonplace, enabling viewers to gradually accept these realities and immerse themselves in the narrative. This approach parallels the earlier example of ceiling-walking, but with more narrative utility. Picture crafting a tale about underwater dwellers, akin to Nagi no Asu kara (A Lull in the Sea), where characters can speak freely beneath the waves. If they could only communicate on the surface, it would complicate the plot and undermine the premise of this underwater society.

The second approach permits the introduction of unique characters or items that defy conventional limitations, showcasing magic, superpowers, or advanced technology that contradicts natural laws. Characters may possess the ability to fly, conjure fire, or transform into animals, but these abilities must remain exceptions rather than the standard.

Nonetheless, the distinction between these two approaches can be ambiguous. For instance, in many fantasy settings, magic is as intrinsic as oxygen, with some individuals exhibiting better compatibility than others. While some can harness magic and become wizards, others may not sense its presence at all. In superhero comics, it's common to provide pseudo-scientific explanations for superpowers, lending an air of plausibility to otherwise fantastical abilities.

Ultimately, whether an author chooses to adhere to or modify the laws of physics, these principles are vital in fiction. They assist readers in navigating the narrative by establishing a framework that resembles our own: gravity exists, the sky appears blue during daylight, and characters perceive sound similarly to us. However, as human experience is confined to a particular set of rules, these laws remain significant even when they differ or are transgressed. In such cases, readers can still engage with the story by noting the distinctions between the two worlds, preparing them for new adventures in these intriguing yet somewhat familiar realms.

The Science of Color in Fiction

As we dive deeper into the intersection of science and anime, it’s essential to explore specific scientific themes in future articles. This series will analyze how various scientific concepts are portrayed in different anime, comparing them to their real-life applications.

The first video, "VR Physics Adventure - Fantastic Contraption," provides a playful exploration of physics in a virtual reality setting, showcasing the creative possibilities of the medium.

The second video, "Light Fantastic: the Science of Colour," delves into the fascinating world of color science, complementing our exploration of scientific themes in anime.