In the world of Doraemon, each character represents a different type of person we see in real life. Nobita stands for vulnerability but sincerity, Gian embodies raw strength and hidden loyalty, Suneo represents wealth yet insecurity, and Dekisugi, the smart, polite, and calm boy, symbolizes those who are “almost perfect.” Yet the interesting paradox is that despite having every advantage, Dekisugi is not the one Shizuka chooses.
Shizuka’s heart belongs to Nobita, a boy many see as lacking in every way. This is no coincidence but a deeply human and realistic choice.
First, we must acknowledge that Dekisugi is nearly flawless. He excels in every subject, is kind, polite, and always knows how to behave appropriately. He reads advanced books, has broad knowledge, and consistently ranks at the top of the class. Beyond academics, Dekisugi is talented in the arts, plays instruments well, draws beautifully, and is skilled in sports. In other words, he is the legendary “perfect child.” But this very perfection creates an invisible distance.
Shizuka does admire Dekisugi and holds him in high regard. However, love never fits neatly into logic. Shizuka is an emotional girl who responds to natural feelings. Being with someone as perfect as Dekisugi sometimes makes her feel she can’t truly be herself. He is too meticulous, too rational, and makes almost no mistakes. People tend to be moved more by everyday emotions than by something so flawless it leaves no room for connection.
Meanwhile, Nobita, despite being clumsy, weak, and often failing, makes Shizuka feel close. Nobita is vulnerable, easily hurt and sad, but also warm-hearted. He loves Shizuka with pure, uncalculated affection. Though he fears many things, when Shizuka is in danger, Nobita is the first to rush to her side. His awkward but sincere actions touch Shizuka’s heart in a way Dekisugi’s perfection cannot.
Another key reason Dekisugi can’t be with Shizuka lies in how his character is portrayed. Dekisugi never competes with Nobita. Despite his talents, he always respects Nobita and never tries to outshine him in stories involving Shizuka. In many situations, Dekisugi even helps Nobita and Shizuka grow closer, as if he understands their friendship is something special. He never appears as a “rival.” And someone who doesn’t fight for love is unlikely to be the final choice.
Dekisugi’s perfection makes it hard for him to create moments of emotional connection. He lacks awkwardness, foolish efforts, or the nervousness of a boy who likes a girl. In contrast, Nobita brings Shizuka the most genuine feelings: happiness, sadness, anger, and affection. This emotional richness gives Shizuka a sense of vitality, which in a relationship can be more important than ability, achievements, or completeness.
Additionally, an important reason Shizuka chooses Nobita is because she believes he will grow into a good man. Not the smartest or most talented, but the kindest, with a warm heart and sincere love. In the future, when faced with an arranged marriage, Shizuka even abandons the wedding to run after Nobita. This shows her feelings have never shifted away from Nobita, even though Dekisugi’s perfection makes many think he is the better match.
Dekisugi doesn’t get Shizuka not because he lacks anything, but because he has too much. Love doesn’t always go to the brightest place, but to where there is warmth, honesty, and even human awkwardness. Dekisugi is like autumn sunlight: beautiful, clear, gentle, but distant. Nobita is like summer sunlight: bright, sometimes overwhelming, but full of life and emotion.
Ultimately, Shizuka’s choice is not one of reason but of the heart. And that heart chooses sincerity over perfection.