Yamada

Overview

Yamada, also known as Tayama, is the female protagonist of the manga series “Smoking Behind the Supermarket with You” written and illustrated by Jinushi. Her dual personas play a central role in the story, showcasing her versatility and depth as a character.

Personality

As Yamada

Yamada is depicted as a demure and perfect customer handler. She is friendly, winsome, and always maintains a professional demeanor at work. Her customer service skills are exceptional, making her a favorite among the supermarket’s clientele, including Sasaki.

As Tayama

Tayama, on the other hand, is Yamada’s alter ego. She is cool, leather-jacketed, and has several ear piercings, presenting a stark contrast to her Yamada persona. Tayama is mischievous and enjoys messing with Sasaki, often making humorous hints about her true identity. Her transformation from Yamada to Tayama is not just physical but also reflects a change in her behavior and attitude.

Role in the Story

Yamada/Tayama is the central figure in Sasaki’s life, providing him with a sense of comfort and companionship. Her dual personas create a dynamic where Sasaki is drawn to both her professional and personal sides, though he remains oblivious to the fact that they are the same person. This dynamic is a key element in the story, exploring themes of identity, perception, and connection.

Relationships

Sasaki

Yamada/Tayama’s relationship with Sasaki is complex and multifaceted. As Yamada, she is the object of Sasaki’s admiration and comfort, while as Tayama, she becomes his smoking buddy and confidant. Their interactions are filled with humor and emotional depth, as Tayama often teases Sasaki about his inability to recognize her true identity.

Goto

Goto, the supermarket manager, is a supporter of Yamada and observes her relationship with Sasaki with interest. Goto’s character adds a layer of warmth and understanding to the story, particularly in her interactions with Yamada.

Significant Plot Points

• The Transformation: Yamada’s transformation into Tayama is a pivotal aspect of the story. By changing her appearance and demeanor, she creates a distinct persona that contrasts sharply with her professional self.
• Sasaki’s Ignorance: Sasaki’s failure to recognize Yamada and Tayama as the same person is a recurring theme. This ignorance allows for comedic moments and deeper exploration of their relationship.
• Smoking as a Bond: The act of smoking becomes a shared activity between Sasaki and Tayama, symbolizing their connection and providing a space for them to bond over their shared vice.

Conclusion

Yamada/Tayama is a compelling and multifaceted character whose dual personas drive the narrative of “Smoking Behind the Supermarket with You”. Her relationships with Sasaki and other characters are rich and nuanced, offering a deep exploration of identity, connection, and the complexities of human relationships. Despite the controversial theme of smoking, the manga focuses on the emotional and social aspects of the characters’ lives, making it a captivating read for those interested in character-driven stories.