“Bird Box” is a novel written by Josh Malerman, which was later adapted into a popular Netflix film. In both the book and the film, the concept of evil is depicted in a unique and unsettling way. Evil in “Bird Box” is not a tangible, physical entity, but rather a malevolent force that remains unseen throughout the story. In this essay, we will explore the different interpretations of evil in “Bird Box” and how it is portrayed through various elements of the narrative.
First and foremost, the primary manifestation of evil in “Bird Box” is a mysterious force that causes anyone who sees it to lose their sanity and commit violent acts, ultimately resulting in their own death. The exact nature of this force is never revealed, and it is only referred to as “it” or “the creature.” This absence of a physical form or clear definition of the evil force adds to its enigmatic and menacing nature, as it leaves the characters and the readers/viewers in a state of constant uncertainty and fear.
The impact of this unseen evil is portrayed through the characters’ behavior and the desperate measures they take to avoid looking at it. The characters in “Bird Box” are forced to wear blindfolds or cover their eyes to protect themselves from the evil force. They are unable to rely on their sense of sight, which is typically one of the most trusted senses, and must navigate the world using their other senses. This deprivation of sight adds a profound sense of vulnerability and powerlessness, as the characters are constantly on edge, relying on their instincts and hearing to survive. The inability to confront or confront evil directly creates a sense of powerlessness, as the characters are unable to comprehend or combat something they cannot see or understand.
Furthermore, the evil in “Bird Box” is not only an external threat, but it also dwells within the characters themselves. As the characters struggle to survive in this post-apocalyptic world, they face internal conflicts and wrestle with their own fears, traumas, and vulnerabilities. The unseen evil force preys on their deepest fears and desires, manipulating their minds and driving them to madness. This internal struggle is exemplified through the character of Gary, who initially appears to be a survivor seeking refuge with the main characters but ultimately reveals himself as a threat, influenced and controlled by the evil force. This portrayal of evil as a force that can corrupt and manipulate individuals from within highlights the concept of evil as something that exists not only in the external world but also within the human psyche.
Moreover, “Bird Box” also explores the idea of the loss of humanity in the face of evil. As the characters are forced to make difficult choices and confront the dire consequences of the evil force, they are pushed to their limits and must grapple with the ethical implications of their actions. Some characters resort to extreme measures, including sacrificing others or themselves, to avoid facing the evil force. This portrayal raises questions about the inherent nature of humanity and how it can be distorted or compromised in the presence of evil. It challenges the notion of good versus evil as absolute concepts and suggests that under certain circumstances, individuals may be compelled to abandon their moral compass and engage in morally ambiguous actions for the sake of survival.
Furthermore, the concept of evil in “Bird Box” is also intertwined with the theme of motherhood and the lengths a mother would go to protect her children. The main character, Malorie, is a mother who is fiercely determined to keep her children safe from the evil force. She navigates a perilous journey blindfolded, with her two children whom she calls “Boy” and “Girl,” relying solely on her maternal instincts to survive. This portrayal of motherhood as a force of unwavering love and protection, even in the face of unimaginable danger, adds an emotional layer
