The Hidden Literary Easter Egg in The Last of Us Reveals Major Season 3 Secrets

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In the intense events of [show/episode], there were subtle Easter eggs that might’ve gone unnoticed at first glance, even to casual viewers. Those who have played ‘The Last of Us Part II’, however, may have been especially vigilant and picked up on these hidden details, hinting at what could transpire in Season 3.

In a more conversational style, let me rephrase this for you: Among the notable details, there are two intriguing elements that might require some explanation. Firstly, there’s a red crane resembling a bridge connecting two skyscrapers seen in the backdrop as Jesse and Ellie walk through Seattle. Secondly, during Abby’s confrontation with Ellie in the theater, there are bruises around her neck that catch our attention.

The detail that may puzzle some viewers is a book Abby reads at the end of an episode titled “Thieves of the City” by Ben Davidoff. However, upon closer inspection, it turns out this isn’t a fictional book or author; it’s actually a disguised reference to a real book and author: “City of Thieves” by David Benioff.

What makes this interesting is that Abby’s fake book, which pays tribute to the showrunner of “Game of Thrones,” and his novel, serves as a significant inspiration for “The Last of Us.

The Character of Lev Represents Transition and Healthy Masculinity in Dangerous Circumstances

Following a confrontation between Abby and Ellie concerning the deaths of Mel, Owen (and others) in “The Last of Us Part II,” the narrative then unfolds from Abby’s point of view over the course of three days in Seattle. During her initial day in the city, the game introduces “City of Thieves.” The creators of the original “Last of Us” game, Neil Druckmann and Bruce Straley, acknowledged that this novel significantly impacted the first game.

This narrative delves into the experiences of two resilient individuals surviving in Leningrad during World War II under siege. They embark on a quest for sustenance, encountering ruthless cannibals and unsavory characters, yet there’s an unexpected touch of humor throughout. Remarkably, the two main characters who initially detest each other develop a unique bond – a transition skillfully executed by the author.

We proudly acknowledge our sources of inspiration. We welcome it, as finding inspiration is delightful, isn’t it? I believe everyone… there’s no such thing as completely original art these days. It’s wonderful to be inspired by the right things. ‘City of Thieves’ is an outstanding book that I recommend you all read.

In a Russian prison, two characters cross paths and are subsequently ordered by a colonel from the NKVD to retrieve a dozen eggs for his daughter’s wedding. The main character, Lev, experiences a rite-of-passage story arc, starting as an insecure boy struggling with Russia’s societal standards of masculinity and eventually transforming into a mature man by the tale’s end. Remarkably, a character named Lev also appears in The Last of Us Part II, which seems to be a deliberate reference to the character from the novel City of Thieves.

In The Last of Us Part II, the character Lev undergoes both physical and symbolic maturation into manhood. Born as a transgender boy, he escapes with his sister Yara to evade punishment for his transition from the strict Seraphites. Alongside Abby, initially an adversary, he embarks on a quest to find life-saving medical supplies for Yara. This alliance with Abby and his personal voyage of self-discovery and faith offers a message of hope. As the youngest major character in the game, Lev’s journey from escaping religious oppression to finding peace, not just as a child but as a transgender individual, embodies the thematic message of The Last of Us Part II: breaking free from the cycle of violence.

It’s well-known that the relationship between Abby and Lev mirrors Joel and Ellie from the initial Last of Us game. However, unlike Ellie, who ultimately succumbed to violence, Lev emerges victorious. He refuses to let violence define him as it did Ellie. The way Lev constructs his masculinity in this narrative is largely due to his aversion to violence. Lev aspires to be a soldier, but not for revenge; rather, he seeks to safeguard his people and family. Incidentally, the act of killing those who have wronged him occurs only when they inadvertently obstruct Lev and Abby’s journey. Similarly to the character of Lev in City of Thieves, who redefines masculinity beyond Russian norms, Lev from The Last of Us presents a healthy masculinity that doesn’t rely on violence as its foundation.

Kolya and Yara Share Few Similar Qualities, but Share the Same Purpose

In the narratives of Lev from City of Thieves and Lev from The Last of Us Part II, there’s an uncanny resemblance, although they don’t share the same names. However, characters in City of Thieves are more so inspirations for these roles, yet they maintain similar themes. Kolya, another character from City of Thieves, frequently serves as a contrast to Lev, often embodying a reckless spirit amidst war-torn surroundings. Despite his impulsiveness, Kolya’s self-assuredness is noteworthy and acts as a guide for Lev, significantly shaping him into a more mature individual. Tragically, Kolya meets his end at the story’s conclusion, killed by his own people.

In The Last of Us Part II, Abby initially encounters Lev in the company of Yara, his elder sister. Yara essentially fills the role that Kolya holds in City of Thieves. When their mother and the Seraphites reject Lev, it falls upon Yara to take care of him. At first, Yara reacts unfavorably to Lev’s wish to identify as a boy, but she eventually comes to accept and support him. Lev admires Yara for her military prowess, but also recognizes her as a kind-hearted individual who adheres to the Seraphite’s principles of love rather than hate.

Currently, Yara differs significantly from Kolya, exhibiting a greater sense of maturity and caution due to her upbringing in an apocalyptic world. However, both share a similar fate, as Yara meets her end at the hands of enemies. This tragic demise serves as a stark reminder to Lev that faith cannot shield people from adversity. It’s disheartening for players who invest time and effort in acquiring medical supplies to save Yara, only to see her succumb to a Wolf’s bullet. This emotional response mirrors the feelings of readers when Kolya dies and the eggs prove worthless in City of Thieves. Yet, the narrative is not solely focused on the outcome but rather the journey that leads to it.

Abby’s Characterization Takes Light Inspiration From Vika

To put it simply, I can’t help but see the striking resemblance between Abby and Vika from “City of Thieves”. While Abby is the lead character in her own story, her tough exterior, coupled with moments of vulnerability and loyalty to her own kind, aligns more closely with Vika’s character. It’s not that Abby can’t fill the roles of Lev or Kolya, but when considering character traits and influence, she seems to embody Vika better, even though Vika has a smaller role in “City of Thieves”.

In essence, Abby and Vika share similar traits as they are both committed fighters, loyal to their organizations and individual goals. However, when their paths cross, rather than being adversaries, they form a significant bond. This bond varies; for Vika, it’s a romantic connection, while Abby experiences a deeply meaningful friendship. In the end, both narratives conclude with them united as a sort of found family, demonstrating that despite vastly different objectives and temperaments, people can establish strong, lasting connections.

The stories of City of Thieves and The Last of Us Part II aren’t identical, but they share similarities that are likely to be reflected in the game and upcoming seasons of the HBO series. Given the adaptations’ nature to evolve and grow, Lev and Yara’s characters will undoubtedly be included. However, whether Season 3 can capture their characterizations as effectively as the game remains to be seen.

You can now stream The Second Season of The Last of Us on Max, which will soon be known as HBO Max. Development for a third season is currently underway.

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2025-05-27 06:57