Ask John: Why Do Anime Characters Wince With Only One Eye?

Question:
Why is it so many anime characters have a tendency to close one eye when they are experiencing pain or straining themselves?

Answer:
Anime characters are said to have “expressive” eyes. This assertion is more true and accurate than anime viewers consciously realize. A great deal of emotion and characterization gets expressed through an anime character’s eyes. Eyes that are large, round, and wide open imply a character that is alert, honest, energetic. Small, narrow eyes may suggest devious thoughts or untrustworthiness. Closed eyes suggest that the character may be immersed in thought, or may have a carefree personality.

It’s not unusual for a person straining against pain to wince briefly, or someone straining in great effort to close his eyes in concentration. Anime has to exaggerate this momentary physical sign in order to make it obvious and noticeable to viewers. Closing only one eye, or keeping one eye open allows characters to demonstrate, to viewers, that they’re still conscious and aware of their surroundings and circumstances. It certainly would be easier for animators to simply draw characters, in these situations, with both eyes closed, but doing so limits the amount of expression that the character can convey to viewers. The look of one eye open despite pain or strain conveys determination and perseverance through difficulty. The look signifies that even while preoccupied, the character still has an eye, literally, on his goal.