In Japan, tattoos are strongly associated with the Yakuza rather than viewed as a form of self-expression. Consequently, tattoos on “One Piece,” written and illustrated by Japanese manga artist Eiichira Oda, are typically meant to brand a character as part of some larger organization, like Nami’s Arlong Pirates tattoo or Jinbe’s Sun Pirates tattoo.

Notable exceptions do exist, but it’s within a framework of narrative significance. For instance, Luffy (sort of) bears a tattoo on his right bicep that marks how long his crew will be separated before reuniting under the Straw Hat Pirate banner.

So it’s a big deal for Nami to publicly announce her allegiance to her late mother and Genzo in this way. The meaning is loud and clear: These are my people, forever and always — kind of like how the Straw Hats on Netflix’s “One Piece” are friends in real life too.

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