Yaoi (pronounced Yah-oy) is an acronym for “yama nashi, ochi nashi, imi nashi”, translated roughly means "no resolution, no point, no meaning". Although it has a different meaning in Japan, it is mostly used in the United States in regards to anime or manga aimed at women that have two male leads in a relationship. The stories themselves range from fluffy romps that have no point other than getting two people to sleep together, to deep and angsty stories that could rival historical operas in complexity and cast. However, most stories sit in the middle range between the two, centered on a heavy mix of drama and steamy encounter. The appeal of two men having to face a romantic situation together is like “Romeo and Juliet” all over again; forbidden love, including the public disapproval.

There are a few descriptive terms that are used in referencing aspects of story in Yaoi. Two of those terms are Seme and Uke. To partly quote Aestheticism.com descriptions:

Seme:(pronounced Seh-meh) From the verb 'semeru', attack.

This is usually the dominant force in a relationship, not necessarily aggressive, but the driving force of the pair. Usually, but not always, the quieter and more level headed of the pair.

Uke:(pronounced Ooh-keh) from the verb 'ukeru', receive.

This is usually the secondary person in the relationship, and who reacts to the Seme’s actions. Usually, but not always, the more expressive of the pair, and often the “hero” of the story in the sense of what viewpoint the story is told in.

Although the above terms may sound rather impersonal, they act as a form of shorthand to describe common types of characters found in Yaoi manga. In reality, the type of characters can be quite diverse. If you are interested in seeing more, we have three titles that you might want to try, “Only The Ring Finger Knows”, “Passion” and “Desire”.

Our Seme and Uke bears are a tiny tribute to a rather famous shirt seen widely around Yaoi circles. We hope you enjoy them too.