The Boy and the Heron

The ending of The Boy and the Heron reveals Mahito’s journey towards understanding and accepting loss, as well as the importance of human connections. Throughout his adventures in the mysterious realm of the dead—guided by the talking heron—Mahito confronts the complexities of grief and the fantasy of reunion. The talking heron, which embodies the cultural symbolism of a creature that can travel between worlds, initially appears as a deceitful guide but gradually becomes Mahito’s protector, helping him navigate through the surreal landscape. This journey teaches Mahito that the spirits of loved ones continue to influence and shape his life, even after death, through memories and the bonds they leave behind.

As Mahito ventures into the abandoned tower and encounters the figure of his ancestor—the granduncle—he sees a reflection of loneliness and obsessive creativity that can trap a person within their own world. The granduncle’s creation of his internal universe symbolizes the solitary nature of imagination and the loneliness that often accompanies it. Mahito’s refusal to take over this created realm underscores his decision to reconnect with reality and his loved ones, rather than retreat into a fantasy world that, while tempting, offers no true human warmth.

The climax emphasizes Mahito’s emotional growth. When he is offered to rule over the fantasy realm by the granduncle, he declines, choosing instead to return to the real world where he belongs. His decision signifies his acceptance of his mother’s death and his understanding that life’s pain and happiness are intertwined. In the final moments, Mahito’s support for Himi—his mother’s younger self—allows her to choose her own destiny, staying in her world so she can eventually become his mother in a different way. The departure of Himi reaffirms that while the fantasy can provide comfort, genuine healing requires embracing the real, often difficult, relationships in life.

Ultimately, the film concludes with Mahito returning to his world, having gained a mature perspective on love, loss, and hope. The collapsing tower and the birds’ departure symbolize the end of his internal journey and his readiness to face the future with a new understanding: that true love and connection are rooted in reality, and that moving forward involves letting go of impossible fantasies. Miyazaki’s story gently champions the idea that embracing human relationships—no matter how painful—leads to genuine growth, healing, and acceptance.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 09:01