Witches is a remarkable work of vision and surrealism. I have previously read Children of the Sea by Daisuke Igarashi. They share many common themes. These themes include the inadequacy of words in describing the non-dual ultimate reality, myths of ancient cultures hinting at deeper metaphysical truths, and the ecological world possessing hidden spiritual essences. There are four main stories in this omnibus. Each story focuses on a particular witch and includes oneiric, surreal plot twists; some of them can be quite striking, whereas others are haunting. Each story challenges the reader's sense of normalcy, making him or her question the nature of the universe andtheir place within it. Daisuke Igarashi's stunning artwork captures this theme very well.

Each story ends with tragedy for a specific character. Nonetheless, it is done in a symbolic way that encourages a person to learn from both the joys and the struggles of living harmoniously with nature. In addition, this book instills a deeper sense of reverence for the human body. The body is nature's temple.

Some parts may come across as overly didactic, but I did not mind because I believed it added to the atmosphere. I will conclude this review with a quote from the third story:

“Life is born in the stars. Planets die and become dust.
Somewhere, they are gathered again and mixed anew.
They are reborn as a new planet. And again, they die.
The memory of life is engraved in all things…
Amidst the repetition.”

I hope Seven Seas will translate and publish more of Daisuke Igarashi's masterpieces in the future!