Tom: The Legendary Shipwright of Water Seven (One Piece)

The world of *One Piece*, created by Eiichiro Oda, is a vast and vibrant tapestry woven with adventure, camaraderie, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Amidst the colorful characters and epic battles, the significance of ships cannot be overstated. These vessels are not merely modes of transportation; they are extensions of their crews, symbols of freedom, and often, characters in their own right. One figure whose legacy is deeply intertwined with the nautical heart of *One Piece* is Tom, a legendary fish-man shipwright from the bustling city of Water Seven. This master craftsman, renowned for his unparalleled skill and unwavering integrity, left an indelible mark on the story, shaping the lives of key characters and ultimately contributing to the creation of the Straw Hats’ magnificent ship, the Thousand Sunny.

Who Tom Truly Was – Character Foundations

Born a fish-man, a member of a diverse race dwelling beneath the waves, Tom possessed a unique perspective and understanding of the sea. His physical appearance reflected his heritage, likely featuring characteristics distinct to his particular fish-man species. Beyond his physical attributes, however, it was his character that truly set him apart. Tom was a boisterous and enthusiastic individual, overflowing with a passion for his craft. His honor was unyielding, and he possessed a strong sense of justice, always striving to do what was right, even in the face of adversity. He was a master of shipbuilding, arguably the best in the world. He could craft strong ships with a flair that was unparalleled, capable of withstanding the most treacherous voyages on the Grand Line. Arguably, his masterpiece was a ship he built for the Pirate King himself. The Oro Jackson.

Tom’s Workers – The Company and Apprentices

Tom didn’t work alone, instead, he had assembled the Tom’s Workers, a collective of some of the best shipwrights out there, all working under Tom’s careful guidance and tutelage. These shipwrights worked hard under Tom, but none of them were as close to Tom as his two apprentices. Iceburg and Franky. Iceburg dreamed of reforming the corrupt Water Seven. Iceburg’s ambition and attention to detail complimented Tom’s own skills, as Iceburg was a prodigy in his own right. Tom would often entrust Iceburg with the most important tasks within his company.

Franky, on the other hand, had a very different ambition. Franky, obsessed with building the ultimate battleship, frequently clashed with Tom’s philosophical teachings. Tom loved both his pupils and always thought highly of them, however, Franky and Iceburg were polar opposites. Ultimately, Tom was able to instill in Franky some of his knowledge and beliefs that eventually went on to save the Straw Hat pirates numerous times. Franky dreamt of creating ships that could conquer the world and Tom supported him the best he could.

The Philosophies of Tom and Their Impact

At the heart of Tom’s philosophy lay a profound belief: “There’s no good or bad in ships.” He saw ships as tools, instruments devoid of inherent morality. Their purpose, he argued, was determined solely by the intentions of those who wielded them. This perspective, while seemingly simple, carried significant moral implications within the *One Piece* world, where ships could be instruments of both peace and destruction.

This belief system deeply influenced both Iceburg and Franky, shaping their values and guiding their decisions. Iceburg, driven by a desire to improve Water Seven, embraced Tom’s belief in the power of ships to bring about positive change. Franky, initially consumed by a passion for battleships, gradually came to understand the weight of Tom’s words, realizing that the true measure of a ship lay not in its destructive potential but in the dreams it carried and the lives it protected. After Tom’s unfortunate death, both Iceburg and Franky would go on to carry Tom’s legacy with them.

Tom’s teachings played a crucial role in the Water Seven arc, a pivotal moment in the *One Piece* saga. The events surrounding his death served as the catalyst for much of the conflict within the arc, highlighting the consequences of unchecked ambition and the importance of upholding one’s principles. Furthermore, the drama surrounding his death and Iceburg’s inability to prevent it was a core part of the events that would later motivate Franky to work with the Straw Hat Pirates.

The Death of a Shipwright

The tragedy of Tom’s death stemmed from a carefully orchestrated scheme by Spandam, a nefarious agent of the World Government. Driven by ambition and a thirst for power, Spandam sought to undermine Tom’s reputation and acquire his shipbuilding secrets. He orchestrated a series of attacks on government vessels, framing Tom and his workers for the crimes. A vital part of the scheme was the Sea Train, a revolutionary transportation system designed by Tom himself. Spandam manipulated the project, using it to further his agenda and ultimately seal Tom’s fate.

In a selfless act of sacrifice, Tom took responsibility for Franky’s battleships, accepting the blame for the attacks to protect his beloved apprentices. Knowing that his execution was imminent, he used his remaining time to impart his wisdom to Iceburg and Franky, urging them to continue pursuing their dreams and uphold their values. The emotional impact of Tom’s death resonated deeply, leaving Iceburg and Franky devastated. The tragedy would fuel their determination to honor Tom’s memory and carry on his legacy.

The aftermath of Tom’s death was profound. Water Seven mourned the loss of a legendary shipwright, while Iceburg and Franky grappled with grief and guilt. Franky was so distraught that he threw himself in front of a train in an attempt to stop it. This event resulted in him becoming a cyborg.

The Thousand Sunny: Tom’s Greatest Legacy

From the ashes of tragedy, a new hope emerged. Franky, fueled by his love for Tom and his remorse for the events leading to his death, embarked on a journey to create the ultimate ship. As a tribute to Tom and his unwavering commitment to excellence, Franky poured his heart and soul into the construction of the Thousand Sunny, the Straw Hats’ iconic vessel.

The Thousand Sunny embodies Tom’s shipbuilding philosophy. It is built to withstand any storm. The ship’s design and features reflect Tom’s innovative style and his deep understanding of the sea. From its reinforced hull to its advanced weaponry, every aspect of the Thousand Sunny is a testament to Tom’s genius.

More than just a ship, the Thousand Sunny represents the Straw Hats’ dreams and their unwavering bond. It symbolizes their freedom to explore the Grand Line, their determination to overcome any obstacle, and their unwavering belief in the power of friendship. The Thousand Sunny also carries Tom’s legacy, reminding the Straw Hats of the importance of honor, skill, and sacrifice. Furthermore, the Thousand Sunny represents the dream to sail all seas. A dream that Tom himself carried.

In Conclusion: The Everlasting Impact of Tom One Piece

Tom was more than just a shipwright; he was a mentor, a friend, and a symbol of hope. His skill, philosophy, and tragic fate have left an indelible mark on the *One Piece* narrative. He shaped the lives of key characters, inspired the creation of the Thousand Sunny, and taught everyone around him to pursue their dreams, even in the face of adversity.

His legacy endures through his apprentices, through the ships he built, and through the hearts of those who remember him. Tom was truly a remarkable individual, a testament to the power of passion, integrity, and the enduring spirit of the sea. The ship “Thousand Sunny” and her travels are a constant reminder to the world of the great Tom, who helped bring it all to life.