Understanding the Ending of 'IT'

'IT' by Stephen King is a haunting and iconic work that delves into the depths of the human psyche, exploring themes of trauma, abuse, and the power of memory. The novel's ending is particularly enigmatic, with the characters seemingly unable to remember what happened to them after defeating Pennywise the Dancing Clown. This article explores the psychological and thematic reasons behind this memory loss, providing insights that could help readers appreciate the full depth of King's narrative.

The Psychology of Memory Suppression

One of the most compelling aspects of 'IT' is its exploration of memory and its suppression. As English speakers, people often avoid discussing traumatic experiences, as these discussions can make them feel abnormal or perceived as abnormal by others. This phenomenon, known as psychological repression, is a crucial element of King's narrative. The characters in 'IT' are in a state of trauma and must grapple with the emotional and psychological impact of their interactions with Pennywise.

William Golding's concept of the "talismanic aura" can be applied here, where the characters' collective experiences of trauma create an unspoken understanding. This shared trauma is so intense that it becomes a part of their unconscious, leading to a form of collective amnesia. This is not just a plot device but a reflection of real-world psychological phenomena, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By the end of the novel, the characters have not only defeated Pennywise but have also been transformed by their experiences, which are too overwhelming for them to fully process and remember.

The Social Framework and Societal Norms

The social and cultural framework of the novel is crucial to understanding why the characters have memory loss. In 'IT', the characters come from small, abusive towns where the adults tell the children to be quiet and not talk about their experiences. This creates a culture where talking about trauma is discouraged, leading to a form of societal amnesia. In the modern world, there are no silent orders to which the characters could escape to avoid the consequences of their traumatic experiences.

The characters' inability to remember is a form of self-protection. It allows them to distance themselves from the trauma and to continue to function in their everyday lives. This idea is rooted in King's exploration of the duality of human nature, where individuals can choose to confront or suppress their traumas. By forgetting, the characters are, in a way, protecting themselves, much like how they would avoid a silent order in a more traditional setting.

fantastical and Realistic Elements

While 'IT' is firmly rooted in the realm of horror and fantasy, it also addresses real and profound psychological concepts. King's portrayal of the characters' experiences, especially their struggles with memory, is a realistic reflection of how trauma can impact individuals and communities. The manifestation of Pennywise as a corporeal entity is a fantastical element that serves to highlight the psychological truth of the story. If the group had faced off against something more mundane, such as the Yakuza, the psychological impact would still be the same. The characters would still experience memory loss, as they could not behave as if any of the goings-on had occurred.

The novel's exploration of abuse, both physical and psychological, is a realistic and relevant aspect of King's work. Each of the seven characters represents a different form of this abuse and is burdened by their own identity markers. This aspect of the story is often overlooked in discussions of the novel, but it is integral to understanding the psychological depth of the characters' experiences. It is likely that each of the characters was told from a young age that there was something "weird" or "different" about their hometown, which contributed to the creation of the "IT" phenomenon.

Conclusion

'IT' by Stephen King is a masterpiece that combines fantastical elements with a profound exploration of the human psyche. The memory loss experienced by the characters at the end of the novel is not just a plot device but a reflection of real-world psychological phenomena. Through the characters' experiences, King illustrates the profound impact of trauma and the ways in which societies and individuals cope with such experiences. The novel serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding and addressing the psychological impacts of abuse and trauma, both in fiction and in reality.