Ep 2. Yakamashika (Noisy)

In episode 2 of Barakamon season 1, titled "Yakamashika" (Noisy), we see Handa Sei, the protagonist, struggling to adapt to his new life in the village of Goto Island. He is still grappling with the realization that his calligraphy has become too "by the book" and lacks creativity and originality. This episode shows Handa continuing to practice writing and trying to find a new approach to his art.

Handa's attempts to focus on his work are repeatedly interrupted by the noisy antics of the children in the village. Things start to seem unbearable when Handa comes down with a cold, impairing his ability to write and concentrate. The kids, however, are not deterred by Handa's cold and continue to pester him with their noise and activities.

Despite this, Handa's interactions with the kids begin to change his perspective on his art. After spending time observing the kids and their carefree, unselfconscious approach to life, Handa starts to realize that creativity and originality come from letting go of rigid ideals and conventions. He begins to experiment with a more spontaneous approach to calligraphy, and we see glimpses of him beginning to break out of his creative rut.

This episode also introduces us to some of the other characters in the village, including the kindly village elder, Naru's grandfather, and an old man who is one of Handa's biggest fans. We also see more of Naru's infectious energy and her close bond with Handa. Their friendship is one of the main threads running through the series, and we see it starting to blossom in this episode as the two of them bond over their shared love of calligraphy.

Overall, episode 2 of Barakamon season 1 is a heartwarming and comedic look at the challenges of adjusting to a new environment and finding inspiration in unexpected places. Handa's struggles to break out of his creative rut, the chaotic energy of the village kids, and the quirky personalities of the other characters all combine to make for an entertaining and engaging episode.