I just had another weird thought about my fave spooky podcast and most recent hyperfixation.
The Five Seasons of The Magnus Archives Seem Thematically Parallel to the Stages of Grief.
Season 1, Denial - Jon feigns skepticism as he reads the statements and hides that he’s scared of whatever monsters lurk in them
Season 2, Anger - Jon takes the offensive in that he begins to investigate Gertrude’s death and starts spying on his coworkers in an increasingly antagonistic fashion. Everybody rightly gets very upset with Jon’s behavior.
Season 3, Bargaining - Jon learns (part of) the truth; okay, how does he fix this? Look into the Stranger, save the world, maybe that will validate the fact he’s becoming less human? What does he have to do to be safe?
Season 4, Depression - And I quote, “Boohoo, I’m so alone and a monster”. He has lost a larger piece of his humanity and is going through the motions, nobody he can trust or talk to and sinking into the addiction of hunting victims.
Season 5, Acceptance - John has come into full power and, while he still doesn’t like the fact that he does, he enjoys the perks of avatarism and being the harbinger of the change.
(If this observation has already been made I apologize but my late night thoughts need an outlet.)
SO! A few people who saw this post reblogged or commented that they have not only also had this theory but created actual anaylsis on it (essays, documentaries)! I am intrigued! If anybody has further speculation/references/essays etc they’ve found or crafted and want to share I’d love to partake and/or discuss! I love picking apart symbolism in stories, I’m like Jared but with lore 🙃.