Since its debut, The Last of Us has been hailed as the finest video game adaptation to grace our screens. However, with the highs, there are lows, and fans were recently hit with a major blow following Joel’s death in Season 2. Though heartbreaking, the attention to detail surrounding Joel’s demise is commendable, particularly with a poignant song playing during the closing moments of Season 2, Episode 2. If you assumed it was just any random track, you couldn’t be more wrong; its significance runs deep, especially for video game enthusiasts. Let’s unravel what this song truly represents!
What is the Song in The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 2 Ending?
In the emotional climax of The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 2, Abby murders Joel, dramatically walking away with her team as Ellie, injured, crawls toward Joel’s lifeless body. During this poignant moment, viewers hear Ashley Johnson’s voice singing “Through the Valley” by Shawn James.
If you’re wondering why this sounds familiar, it’s because Ashley Johnson voiced Ellie in both The Last of Us games and previously performed this cover for the trailer of The Last of Us Part II. It’s a haunting return in this climactic episode.
What Does The Song At The End of TLOU Season 2 Episode 2 Mean?
Initially, you might think that the song at the end of this episode serves to ease the viewer into the sorrow of Joel’s death. Yet, “Through the Valley” conveys much more than mere melancholy. The song performs a dual function: it resonates with the visual gravity of the scene while embedding powerful lyrical meaning. After Abby slays Joel, the lyrics echo:
“I fear no evil, ’cause I’m blind to it all. And my mind and my gun, they comfort me. Because I know I’ll kill my enemies when they come.”
This moment encapsulates the chilling aftermath of Joel’s death. Additionally, the song threads further depth when the Infected attack Jackson, showcasing Tommy’s emotional collapse paired with the lyrics:
“Surely, goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life. And I will dwell on this earth forever more.”
Perhaps the most haunting line occurs as Joel’s body is dragged through the snow by Jessie and Ellie:
“Oh, and I walk beside the still waters, and they restore my soul. But I know when I die, my soul is damned. But I know when I die, my soul is damned.”
This passage feels as though Joel is reaching out to Ellie, attempting to comfort her. He acknowledges the violence of his past, expressing that he understood the repercussions of taking lives—his “soul is damned.”
Furthermore, this song can also serve as a cautionary message from Joel to Ellie, advising her against following his path of vengeance. As we ponder the future episodes, we’re left to wonder about the implications of Joel’s fate on Ellie’s journey. Let’s stay tuned—there’s much more to come!
What is the significance of the music choices in The Last of Us? The music supplements the emotional weight of the scenes, enhancing the overall experience for viewers and gamers alike. The soundtrack helps drive home the themes of loss, consequence, and morality that permeate the narrative.
How did Ashley Johnson contribute to the game’s musical landscape? Ashley Johnson not only lent her voice to Ellie but also infused emotional depth into the series through her musical performances, further enriching the storytelling.
Can the song’s lyrics help deepen our understanding of the narrative? Absolutely! The lyrical themes explore the complexities of morality and consequence, which resonate throughout Joel and Ellie’s journey.
Why should fans pay attention to the soundtrack? The music serves as a narrative tool, offering insights into character motivations and the emotional stakes of each scene, enhancing viewer engagement.
How has the series changed perceptions of video game adaptations? The Last of Us has set a new standard, showcasing how video game narratives can translate into compelling, emotionally charged television.
In conclusion, the music and storytelling in The Last of Us go hand-in-hand, creating a rich tapestry of emotion and narrative complexity. For more insights and analyses of your favorite shows, visit Moyens I/O. There’s always something more to discover!