“Hiroya’s Self-Discovery in Michiko Aoyama’s What You Are Looking For Is in the Library”

Abstract

This study explores the psychological and emotional transformation of Hiroya Suda, a character from Michiko Aoyama’s What You Are Looking For Is in the Library, focusing on his journey of self-discovery as he transitions from a withdrawn and uncertain individual to someone who begins to embrace meaning, connection, and personal growth. Using a qualitative descriptive method, the research applies psychoanalytic theory and Scott Barry Kaufman’s reinterpretation of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs (Transcend) to examine how Hiroya’s internal conflicts, suppressed desires, and evolving self-perception shape his development. The findings identify three major stages in his transformation: psychological stagnation, emotional reawakening, and the reconstruction of a new identity, each marked by key interactions and introspective moments. This research contributes to literary discussions on identity formation by illustrating how fictional narratives reflect realworld psychological growth and human resilience. The analysis reveals that Hiroya’s development is not driven by external success but by a gradual shift toward authenticity, self-acceptance, and meaningful living, aligning with the psychological concepts of self-actualization and personal integration.