If you’re captivated by “Severance” and can’t wait for more, consider adding “The Death of Ivan Ilyich” to your reading list. Following the intense climax of Season 2, Episode 7, this literary piece could provide an intriguing parallel or deeper insight. Proceed with caution, as spoilers lie ahead!
The secret behind Lumon’s true intentions has been a central enigma throughout Severance since its premiere in 2022. While there have been clues scattered throughout, the most recent episode of the Apple TV+ series sheds light on more than we’ve ever known before.
Significantly, the narrative delves deeper into Gemma’s background, revealing her history with Mark, her transformation into Ms. Casey, and the mysteries that lie beyond the Exports Hall.
In case you overlooked it, there’s a mention of Leo Tolstoy’s “The Death of Ivan Ilyich”. I strongly recommend you give this novel a read as it’s truly worth your precious time.
The Death of Ivan Ilyich, a Severance book recommendation
In a flashback sequence, it’s clear that Gemma and Mark initially crossed paths at Ganz College. During their encounter, Gemma disclosed that the focus of her student’s work revolved around “topics of religious transformation as depicted in Tolstoy’s The Death of Ivan Ilyich.
In the opening act of Severance, I found myself and my colleague, both scholars, immersed in the realms of Russian literature and World War I at our esteemed educational institution. That’s me, delving into the intricacies of Russian literary masterpieces, while my companion, Mark, focused on the historical events of WWI.
The 1886 work by Tolstoy, titled a novella, holds remarkable relevance today. It chronicles the life of Ivan Ilyich, a prominent jurist, who experiences unbearable pain following a seemingly insignificant injury. As he grapples with his inevitable end, he undergoes an introspective journey.
As his health deteriorates, he starts pondering the purpose of his existence, triggering a deep introspection about life’s essence. The novel’s topics – mortality, existential dilemmas, and solitude – resonate strongly with Severance’s investigation into identity and power dynamics.
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Like Ivan, Innies are stripped of their autonomy, forcing them to reevaluate their existence.
Gemma’s bond with the book might suggest profound philosophical themes within the television series, yet it could equally be linked to something far more ominous.
In their conversation, the student is exploring ideas about “spiritual change,” similar to the journey Tolstoy underwent, which was reflected in his work “The Death of Ivan Ilyich.” This transformation, for Tolstoy, involved rejecting materialism and seeking wisdom and authenticity.
Instead, Lumon demonstrates an almost fervent reverence towards Kier Eagan. Staff members frequently invoke his name, delve into his works, and unquestioningly adhere to his teachings… it’s reminiscent of a devout following.
In contrast to Tolstoy’s work that delves into spiritual growth and individual liberty, Lumon’s ideology emphasizes conformity and subjugation.
The starkness of this situation is further intensified by the knowledge that Lumon had already been subtly controlling Mark and Gemma’s lives well before they even joined the company.
In Season 2, Episode 7, it’s clear that the organization had been monitoring them since their first visit to the fertility clinic (Dr. Mauer, who oversees Lumon’s Testing Floor, was also there on that same day).
Just as Ivan eventually renounces his superficial existence, Mark, Gemma, and their colleagues are striving to escape the truth they’ve been compelled to accept.
Alternatively, you might consider that we’re overanalyzing matters here, but regardless, The Death of Ivan Ilyich remains a timeless piece. And if it resonates with Gemma, it certainly should resonate with us as well.
If you need a reminder, we’ve got summaries for episodes 1 through 6 available.
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2025-02-28 11:33