Ep 18. He Came Back

Honey and Clover season 1 episode 18 is an emotional and touching episode that follows the life of a group of art students, their struggles, and their relationships. The episode is named "He Came Back" and it explores the return of one of the students, Mayama, to Tokyo after a long absence.

The episode begins with Yamada and Nomiya discussing their future plans and the changes they will face once they graduate from college. While Nomiya is excited about the prospects of the future, Yamada is worried about losing the close-knit group of friends she has at college. She also feels left behind since everyone else seems to be taking the next step, and she is still unsure of what she wants to do.

Meanwhile, Mayama is back in Tokyo after working on a construction site for several months. He is exhausted and disheartened by the tough work conditions and the long hours, but he is happy to be back with his friends. When Mayama first meets up with the group, they are having a picnic in the park. At first, Mayama seems distant and detached, but he gradually opens up to his friends and shares some of his experiences during his absence.

As the episode progresses, the group begins to notice some changes in Mayama's behavior. He seems more subdued than before, and he is having trouble sleeping. They realize that Mayama has been struggling with some inner demons since his return, and they try to support him as best as they can.

One of the standout moments of the episode is when Mayama visits the gallery where Takemoto's artwork is displayed. He is struck by the beauty of Takemoto's work, and he is reminded of why he chose to pursue a career in art in the first place. This scene is particularly poignant, as it shows how art can be a source of inspiration and comfort during difficult times.

The episode also touches on the topic of unrequited love, a recurring theme in the series. Yamada is still in love with Mayama, but he seems oblivious to her feelings. She tries to hide her emotions, but it is clear that she is struggling with her unrequited love. Nomiya, who has feelings for Yamada, is a supportive friend and is always there to listen to her problems.

Overall, "He Came Back" is a beautiful and heartfelt episode that showcases the close bond between the characters. The episode has a melancholy tone, but it also has moments of hope and optimism. The ending of the episode leaves the viewer with a sense of anticipation for what's to come next and how the characters will navigate the challenges they face.