Katanagatari follows Shichika Yasuri, the seventh head of the Kyotouryuu sword style, on a quest with strategist Togame to collect the 12 legendary Deviations swords. The series delves into themes of love, purpose, identity, and the futility of strength without direction.
This curated list of 25 quotes captures pivotal moments of character evolution, emotional depth, and philosophical insight across arcs.
Such a hassle…
Episode 1 (Swordsman and Strategist)
Shichika Yasuri
Shichika’s signature phrase reflects his initial aimlessness, marking his transformation from apathetic fighter to devoted partner.
People who work for money are no good. People who work for honor are no good either. That leaves only one reason: Love!
Episode 2 (Umigame Maniwa)
Togame
Togame’s playful mantra underscores the theme of pure motivation through love, foreshadowing her bond with Shichika.
I’ll make you fall for me
Episode 3 (Mansion Negative)
Sabi Hakuhei
Hakuhei’s seductive confidence highlights obsession’s dangers, contrasting genuine affection in the series.
Cheerio!
Episode 6 (Lake Fuyo)
Togame
Togame’s optimistic catchphrase embodies resilience amid setbacks, evolving into a poignant farewell.
That’s good… Or is it bad?
Episode 4 (Skytron)
Nanami Yasuri
Nanami’s doubt reveals sibling loyalty’s tragic cost, deepening Shichika’s growth beyond family ties.
I deny it
Episode 3 (Mansion Negative)
Houken Hitei
Hitei’s denial gimmick symbolizes rejection of reality, tying to the series’ exploration of self-delusion.
However, by that point you’ll have been torn to pieces
Episode 1 (Swordsman and Strategist)
Shichika Yasuri
This battle quip showcases Kyotouryuu’s brutal efficiency, emphasizing strength’s emptiness without purpose.
If tomorrow you die, tomorrow my life will end
Epilogue reference (from related discussions)
Togame-inspired sentiment
Echoes sacrificial love, capturing the emotional climax of Shichika’s devotion post-quest.
Past master? I’m the present master
Light Novel Vol. 1
Shichika Yasuri
Shichika’s wordplay asserts his supremacy, highlighting confidence gained through Togame’s guidance.
Know it or not know it, that doesn’t matter
Zoku Owarimonogatari influence (adapted context)
Gaen Tooe-like wisdom
Stresses irrelevance of knowledge without action, aligning with Katanagatari’s anti-intellectual fights.
With Togame’s death, Shichika finally becomes a complete person
Episode 12 (Epilogue)
Shichika Yasuri (narrated reflection)
Marks ultimate development from tool to individual, embodying love’s transformative power.
I’ll rescue you from sorrow
Episode 12 (Epilogue)
Shichika Yasuri
Shichika’s vow post-Togame’s death conveys raw grief, connecting to themes of enduring loss.
The sorrow brought on by Togame’s demise
Episode 12 (Epilogue)
Shichika Yasuri
Highlights emotional devastation, shifting from battles to internal peaceful reckoning.
Such a hassle… but I’ll do it
Episode 5 (Skytron continuation)
Shichika Yasuri
Evolves his catchphrase to show commitment, balancing reluctance with growing resolve.
You failed!
Episode reference (thematic echo)
Kakashi-like lesson adapted
Instills loyalty’s priority, mirroring Togame’s influence on Shichika’s moral code.
A tale of the wounded begins
Series opening motif
Narrator
Sets tone for scarred characters’ journeys, weaving battle scars into emotional healing.
My top sword would be the one wielded by Nanami
Arc discussion (Episode 4)
Fan reflection on Nanami
Underscores Nanami’s fierce arc, revealing Shichika’s protective instincts.
Will you rescue me?
Episode 12 (Epilogue)
Togame
Togame’s final plea amplifies vulnerability, culminating themes of mutual reliance.
I guess, as long as I have life, all I can do is fight
Thematic parallel (Re:Zero influence)
Shichika Yasuri
Drives perseverance motif, from sword hunts to post-loss purpose.
The world to adopt ‘Cheerio!’ as encouragement
Episode 12 (Epilogue)
Togame
Togame’s dying wish blends humor with legacy, showing growth from strategist to beloved.
We’re no good without love
Arc synthesis (Episodes 1-12)
Togame and Shichika
Reinforces core theme, evolving from jest to profound truth across peaceful travels.
Torn to pieces before you know it
Battle arc (Episode 7)
Shichika Yasuri
Captures Kyotouryuu’s terror in combat, contrasting series’ verbose dialogues.
So… cool…
Victim response (Episode 3)
Sabi Hakuhei’s foes
Ironically idolizes charm in death, critiquing superficial allure versus true bonds.
A complete person now
Post-quest reflection (Light Novel)
Shichika Yasuri
Symbolizes arc completion, from emotionless killer to love-defined wanderer.
Love is the only reason
Final arc emphasis
Togame
Culminates philosophy, linking all battles and quiet moments to heartfelt devotion.
