It is no question that Death Note is a classic, must-watch anime and one of the best titles around. Protagonist Light Yagami is an incredible example of an anti-hero as his delusions become too grandiose when he is given powers to kill people and uses them for what he believes is "for the greater good."
His top adversary, world-renowned detective L, is uniquely eccentric and easily identifiable by any anime lover through his shaggy black hair, lack of shoes and strange sitting style. As a notable genius, it is assumed everything L does is for a reason. So, why does he sit in such an uncomfortable position that surely isn't good for his back? Here's a look at some theories to try and explain L's peculiar trait.
A top Death Note theory suggests that L sits in his famous hunched-over way to move at a moment's notice. By staying on his feet even while sitting, he can be ready to fight or flee immediately if necessary. Being one of the best detectives in his field, it's crucial to keep a low profile and a secret identity in order to protect himself from those who want to harm him. By staying in this odd position, it may help him survive if one of his enemies, such as Light/Kira, attempts to assassinate him.
Another theory suggests L may be purposefully presenting himself as unusual to hide in plain sight. By being a bit odd, he may be utilizing a bit of reverse psychology to appear unassuming to his enemies. Some Death Note fans also believe that due to his obsession with his work, L may be on the autism spectrum. Therefore, his compulsions may seem odd to some but are completely normal in his reality.
Not only does L's particular style of sitting help with his movement, it likewise aids his mental alertness. Making himself uncomfortable also makes him hyper-aware of his surroundings, removing the risk of getting too comfortable. In fact, in Episode 10 of Death Note he mentions to Light that his deductive skills increase by roughly 40% while sitting in this way. L's dedication to his work is evidently extreme, further supported by the fact that he barely sleeps.
Everything L does in Death Note is for the sake of his job. He is unquestionably devoted to his craft, and up to his death he proved his reputation as one of the world's greatest detectives. Although Kira ended up outsmarting L in the end, their battle of wits is one of the most fascinating matchups in all of anime.
