Sasuke is clearly, the best well- written character. He should be on - everyone's top 3 by national laws.
Kishimoto has said something that puts Sasuke on a nice literary pedestal. He basically says that 'Sasuke challenged him as a writer.' The 'he isn't obedient, and I had a hard time writing him' doesn't even remotely translate into dislike. Sasuke kept him on his toes. He didn't know how to write him easily like all the characters.
The ultimate compliment Kishimoto has ever given to anyone, as this is what every writer dreams - a plot or a character that challenges him and brings out its complexity. I think I have gained some respect points for Kishimoto, as he gave himself a hard time to flesh out Sasuke.
Best character in all the anime / mangas I have come across. Right up there with Kusanagi from Ghost in the Shell. A lot of facets of his character are plucked right out of Greek Tragedy concept. He actually checks all the boxes established by Aristotle in his Poetics. It cannot get any better than this. His MS persona is when this manga reached the height of characterization.
Without Sasuke, this manga is nothing but a waste of time. I just hope Kishimoto ends Sasuke on a good note or maintains this streak.
