Jotaro’s character arc over the events of Stardust Crusaders to Stone Ocean is just really powerful and I can’t stop thinking about it.
Our first introduction to Jotaro revealed a bratty teen who frequently called his mom a bitch along with any other woman who mildly annoyed him. He adopted the brash, tough guy persona of a delinquent because he didn’t understand how to express himself, operating under the assumption that those around him should just get what he’s feeling. In spite of his cool exterior he was a bit of a hot head who preferred to solve problems with his fists than with his words. But all of this was ultimately a facade, a persona he adopted as a defense mechanism, because ultimately, if you remain unattached people can’t disappoint you. If you play your cards close to your chest people can’t hurt you. If you act aloof then you never really lose anything when things go south.
We got to see him mature during the events of Diamond is Unbreakable. This is a man who’s learned that he can no longer afford to shoot first and ask questions later. He’s not only a father but takes on a protective role while helping the townspeople in Morioh. This is a man who has responsibilities and people to care about beyond himself. This is a man who’s learned the value in caution, patience, and observation. This is a man who has experienced the loss of a loved one. He truly understands what’s at stake and the risks involved in every encounter and acts accordingly.
And yet, in spite of all of this growth, Jotaro was still a deeply flawed individual by the events of Stone Ocean. He was a hero but he struggled to maintain personal relationships. He was dedicated to his work but neglected his daughter, and while this may have been done with the good intention of protecting her, it still resulted in harm. He was far from perfect but honestly, like every JoJo, that’s what made him interesting.
He didn’t get to experience an end with all of his t’s crossed and his i’s dotted. He never got a clear reconciliation with Jolyne. While she did come to understand his motives over time, they never got the time they truly needed to get a fresh start. Understanding is one thing, but understanding without addressing underlying issues is like putting a bandaid on a gaping wound. The characters in Stone Ocean didn’t get a perfect ending wrapped up in a pretty little bow, and yet, in spite of how much it hurts it feels right. Much like in real life, sometimes things end with words left unsaid. Sometimes we die with our regrets, with our would haves and should haves while the world marches on.
