Unveiling Shanks' pivotal role in One Piece: The intertwined fate of Luffy

The true role of Red-Haired Shanks, a former member of the Roger Pirates and current captain of the Red Hair Pirates, remains a hotly debated topic within the One Piece fandom. Despite his influential and pervasive presence in the story, fans continue to speculate about the ultimate plan that author and illustrator Eiichiro Oda has in store for him. While theories about Shanks' true allegiance abound, many fans believe that he is ultimately a force for good in the series.

Latest One Piece theory on Shanks’ final role borrows inspiration from Beethoven’s works and more

Similarly, the user known as @3SkullJoe (Typical Joe) on X (formerly Twitter) and a passionate One Piece fan and theorist, has recently put forth a theory reinforcing their belief that Shanks is aligned with the side of good. The theory also delves into Shanks’ ultimate role in the story, drawing influences from classical music to make deductions about his character.

Shanks’ true role, explained

The theory of Typical Joe starts by revisiting the 1054th chapter of the series, in which Shanks and his vice captain Benn Beckman share a drink and discuss their next moves. The bottle they share is marked “Sake 67 No. 5,” which could be a reference to Beethoven’s 5th Symphony, Opus 67, also known as “The Symphony of Destiny.”

According to the theory, the music itself aligns with the character and presence of Shanks, suggesting that Oda made this reference intentionally. This could provide insight into Shanks’ role in the story, with the theory proposing that he represents a balance between the themes of destiny and dreams.

The theory then highlights another intriguing One Piece theory, suggesting that Shanks was actually named after the part of an anchor called a shank. In an anchor, the shank is connected to the crown, which is the part that rests on the ocean floor and determines its movement, providing structural balance. Interestingly, Luffy is seen wearing a shirt with the word “anchor” on it when he is first introduced in the series.

Shanks is mainly depicted as a peacemaker in the story, working to preserve the "Balance of Power" within the series' world. His interactions with the Gorosei in chapter 907 further highlight his commitment to this role. However, in One Piece chapter 908, Ethanbaron V. Nasjuro introduces the idea that the "world's equilibrium" is not sustainable, implying that a "great cleansing" will eventually occur when the Balance of Power collapses. This suggests that Shanks has been striving to avert or delay this impending crisis.

Shanks’ understanding of the world's truth is also being called into question. While he sailed with the Roger Pirates, he did not journey to Laughtale with them. Nevertheless, it is conceivable that Roger confided in Shanks about the truth of Joyboy, and perhaps even gave him the task of locating the next Joyboy. This could also elucidate Shanks’ knowledge of the true nature of the Gum-Gum Fruit.

The One Piece theory suggests that Shanks is waiting for a specific moment to reunite with Luffy, drawing connections to the "Fate Motif" in Beethoven's 5th and other musical elements in the series. This adds weight to the idea that Oda intentionally linked the music piece and motif to Shanks' character, reinforcing the theme of fate in the story. It could mean that Shanks is waiting for Luffy to reach a place related to the prophecy of Joyboy, which may also explain why Shanks and his crew are moving to obtain the titular treasure.

Shanks will only pursue the One Piece after Luffy has awakened as Joyboy, suggesting that he is positioning himself as an antagonist and rival to Luffy. Despite his intention to fight Luffy, it will symbolically represent opposing forces of destiny and dreams, with Shanks representing the former and Luffy the latter.

Their fight and its symbolism will likely be related to Roger being "too early" to fulfill the purpose of the treasure. This will also connect to the prophecy of the "Two Sovereigns" which Roger heard from the Sea Kings at Fishman Island. Shanks will fight Luffy to prepare him for the destiny that comes with the fulfillment of his dream, likely involving the defeat of Imu and the truth of the ancient kingdom's fall.

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Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan of One Piece, I find the theory that Shanks is ultimately a force for good in the series to be compelling. The evidence presented, such as the references to Beethoven's 5th Symphony and the symbolism of the anchor, suggests that Oda has intentionally crafted Shanks' character to represent a balance between destiny and dreams. This interpretation aligns with Shanks' portrayal as a peacemaker who works to preserve the "Balance of Power" within the series' world.

However, I also find the idea that Shanks may be waiting for a specific moment to reunite with Luffy and become an antagonist and rival to him to be intriguing. This would add a new layer of complexity to Shanks' character and his relationship with Luffy, and it would be interesting to see how Oda develops this dynamic in the future. Overall, I believe that the theory presented in the article offers a fresh perspective on Shanks' role in One Piece and raises some thought-provoking questions about his true intentions and motivations.

One Piece Manga - Anime One Piece is an incredible adventure-filled series that has captivated its fans for over two decades. It follows the journey of Monkey D. Luffy and his pirate crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, as they search for the ultimate treasure, the One Piece, in order to become the King of the Pirates. With its compelling storyline, diverse and lovable characters, epic battles, and themes of friendship and determination, One Piece has created a vast and immersive world that keeps fans eagerly anticipating each new chapter or episode. It is a timeless masterpiece that continues to redefine the boundaries of the shonen genre, making it a must-watch or read for any anime or manga enthusiast.