What if the most extraordinary moments of your life weren’t grand adventures or dramatic revelations, but rather the quiet, “ordinary” days shared with an unexpected companion? This is the heartwarming premise of With You and the Rain (also known as Ame to Kimi to), an anime series that masterfully explores the tender bond between a human and her peculiar pet. Episode 7, titled “It’s Nothing” (“Nani demo nai” in Japanese), aired on August 16, 2025, and delves deeper into the subtle joys and reflections that define this unique slice-of-life narrative.
The World of With You and the Rain
Based on the popular manga by Ko Nikaido, With You and the Rain introduces viewers to Fuji, a novelist who, on a particularly rainy day, encounters an animal in a box that appears to be a dog. This creature, however, is no ordinary canine; it’s a tanuki—a Japanese raccoon dog—that possesses the remarkable ability to communicate by writing. Despite its unusual talents, Fuji wholeheartedly adopts the creature, affectionately dubbing it “Kimi” (meaning “You” or “Buddy”). The series, animated by Studio Lesprit and directed by Tomohiro Tsukimisato, with scripts by Touko Machida, is a gentle, comforting tale that highlights the simple, heartwarming adventures of Fuji and Kimi as they navigate everyday life and the changing seasons.
The charm of With You and the Rain lies in its understated approach. It’s a series that finds profound beauty in mundane activities: sharing meals, going on walks, or simply existing together. The core humor often stems from the running gag of Kimi’s true species—a fact that Fuji seems to either genuinely overlook or willingly embrace with a suspension of disbelief, much to the exasperation of others, particularly a well-meaning veterinarian.
“It’s Nothing”: A Closer Look at Episode 7
Episode 7, “It’s Nothing,” continues the series’ tradition of quiet introspection, yet it manages to be one of the more poignant entries by focusing on the value of unassuming moments. For Fuji, who grapples with writer’s block and the challenge of finding compelling plots for her novels, the concept of “ordinary days” can feel like a creative hurdle. This episode subtly argues that there’s nothing inherently “wrong” with such days; in fact, they can be a wellspring of quiet contentment and a foundation for meaningful connection.
Kimi’s Curious Companionship
A significant aspect of Episode 7 revolves around Kimi’s endearing and often amusing behaviors, which further blur the lines of his true identity. Following a prior encounter with a feline relative, the episode showcases Kimi exhibiting distinctly cat-like traits, such as kneading on Fuji’s stomach and attempting (with varying success) to leap between furniture. These are juxtaposed with more traditionally dog-like antics, like enthusiastically destroying a new toy within moments of receiving it. This dual display reinforces the series’ central theme: Kimi is neither strictly a cat nor a dog, but rather a unique companion animal who fulfills the role of both, transcending conventional pet classifications.
This narrative choice also serves as a subtle commentary on human perceptions of pets. The episode implicitly questions the rigid categories often imposed on animals, suggesting that the true essence of the pet-owner bond lies not in species classification, but in the shared experiences and emotional connection. It’s a reminder that love and companionship can manifest in myriad forms, irrespective of whether an animal fits neatly into preconceived notions of “cat person” or “dog person.”
The Creative Process and Everyday Inspiration
Fuji’s struggles with her novel mirror the episode’s broader message. Her desire for dramatic, plot-driven narratives clashes with the gentle, slice-of-life reality she inhabits with Kimi. This internal conflict allows the episode to highlight how inspiration can be found in the mundane. The seemingly “nothing” moments, the quiet interactions, and the simple presence of a beloved pet can, in themselves, form the rich tapestry of a fulfilling life and, by extension, a compelling story. The episode suggests that sometimes, the greatest depth lies in appreciating the surface, in savoring the present, and in understanding that contentment doesn’t always require grand events.
Themes and Lasting Appeal
With You and the Rain consistently explores themes of companionship, acceptance, and the quiet joys of domestic life. Episode 7 solidifies these themes by emphasizing that the “ordinary” is not synonymous with “boring” but can be a source of profound happiness and inspiration. The series’ strength lies in its ability to create a soothing, comforting atmosphere, providing a gentle escape for viewers.
The animation, while not overly flashy, perfectly captures the subtle nuances of Kimi’s expressive movements and Fuji’s quiet contemplations. The voice cast, including Saori Hayami as Fuji and Anna Mugiho as Kimi, imbues the characters with genuine warmth, further enhancing the show’s charming appeal.
Episode 7 of With You and the Rain is a testament to the series’ unique charm. It’s a quiet affirmation that life’s most meaningful moments often occur in the unadorned, day-to-day interactions. For those seeking a respite from the fast-paced and dramatic, this episode, like the series as a whole, offers a comforting reminder to pause, appreciate the present, and find the extraordinary in the seemingly “nothing.”
