The Maze – a Very Meta Interpretation

Published November 28, 2016 · Updated July 6, 2022

Greetings from Poland!

Here’s a crazy meta-theory: What if the park and especially the Maze are actually a metaphor for the series itself? What if the show is an “experiment”, maybe parallel to what Arnold tried to achieve inside the story – which is to stimulate us, the viewing public to break free from our real life “loops” and realize some important truths about life?

Seriously though (and away from the rolls of tinfoil), you guys contemplated the fact that the show’s plot devices, mysteries and the theories spawning from those are just a distraction from a deeper, philosophical meaning of the show.

And/or that they’re there to satisfy a more casual, less “cerebral” viewer. Well… in the show the park is designed to pander to the basest of human emotions but has deeper layers that allow the more engaged guests to discover their true selves.

I myself (not unlike the Man in Black), while enjoying getting caught up in plot predictions (not unlike the “carnal pleasures” of the park), value the show mostly for its ventures into philosophy, nature of humanity etc. (not unlike the not yet fully revealed “plan” of Arnold – Maze and all).

Now, to be clear: I don’t expect the show to outright break the fourth wall and say: “See, this show is actually about you, my dear viewer! Think about your life and free yourself from your loop!”. Most fans will probably just enjoy the plot twists, shocking reveals and that’ll be that. But this “deeper level” is what would make the show a true work of art in my eyes.

Afterall, that’s what every good science fiction should do, isn’t it?

(Also this would make the show the first work of fiction by a Nolan that wasn’t just an illusion of depth and sophistication ;> )

Anyways, thanks for these consistently great podcasts, keep up the good work!

Pawel

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