Bleach, created by Tite Kubo, began as a manga in 2001 and as an anime in 2004, and Old Man Zangetsu was introduced early as the mysterious spirit inside Ichigo's inner world. His rain speech became one of the series' most quoted moments because it defined their relationship long before later revelations about his true identity. Clips of the monologue have circulated for years in anime edits, quote videos and forums, and fans still return to it for its poetic take on sadness and protection.