The Vermilion Mask writer Dr. Poro has revealed how he approaches major plot twists and long-running mysteries, explaining that understanding readers’ assumptions is essential to controlling when important information reaches the audience. Rather than simply hiding clues until a big reveal, the writer carefully considers how readers might interpret each new detail and what conclusions they could draw from it.
During an exclusive interview with Anime News Network, Dr. Poro discussed his storytelling process, revealing that he constantly thinks about the order in which information should appear in his manga. His approach involves anticipating readers’ reactions and using feedback from editors and other people involved in the creative process to refine the narrative.
The discussion also covered his experience writing The Vermilion Mask, his collaboration with artist Nabana Naba, and the creative lessons that influenced his recently launched manga, GOAT’S GAME.
Dr. Poro Explains How He Uses Reader Expectations to Build Manga Plot Twists
When asked how he develops long-term mystery arcs without revealing major twists too early, Dr. Poro identified the sequence of information as the most important part of the process.
“The most important thing that we have to keep in mind is the order we reveal information in our work,”
the writer explained.
He further revealed that he tries to put himself in the reader’s position whenever he introduces a new detail. This allows him to consider what assumptions readers might make, which conclusions they could reach, and how those interpretations might influence their understanding of subsequent developments.
Dr. Poro also relies on conversations with editors and other people involved in the manga to understand how audiences respond to specific revelations. He described this approach as something developed through trial and error rather than a fixed storytelling formula.
The writer previously shared his work on social media during the early stages of his career, where comments helped him understand audience reactions. He later began relying more on feedback from editors who read his work and offered their perspectives.
Communication With His Editor Changed How He Approaches Manga Writing
Dr. Poro’s approach to storytelling also developed through his experience working with editor Kimura. The writer revealed that they initially disagreed about the direction of The Vermilion Mask because he submitted chapters without explaining his plans for the larger narrative.
While both wanted to improve the manga, their different expectations occasionally created friction. Dr. Poro eventually realized that he needed to communicate his long-term vision earlier instead of waiting until individual chapters were completed.
This experience directly influenced his new manga, GOAT’S GAME, which he recently launched in Young King Ours. According to Dr. Poro, communication became the central theme of the new series because of what he learned while working with Kimura.
The writer also explained that his collaboration with Nabana Naba follows a clear division of responsibilities. He independently develops the story, submits it to Kimura, and the editor communicates the material to Naba, who illustrates the chapters.
The Vermilion Mask Writer Reveals His Original Inspiration for the Manga
The Vermilion Mask began as an unfinished concept Dr. Poro developed while attending college more than a decade ago. He initially planned to submit the story for a publisher’s award but eventually abandoned the project. Years later, he revisited the idea and decided to develop it into a new manga.
The series began serialization in Shōnengahōsha’s Young King Ours magazine in 2021. It follows Peru, an apprentice mask maker who sets out to destroy the powerful masks created by his former master. He eventually joins Sona, a runaway princess, on his journey through a world where masks grant supernatural abilities.
Dr. Poro and Nabana Naba have since brought the story to television through an anime adaptation. The writer also revealed that he is particularly interested in seeing the manga’s action sequences animated, especially the later developments involving a character capable of manipulating gravity.
