The Dual Role of the Piano as an Allegory in Westworld

The piano emerges as a central and multifaceted symbol in the HBO series, Westworld. This instrument serves as a thematic pivot, representing themes of control, manipulation, and existential questioning. Beyond its musical contributions, the piano also serves as an allegory for the creators, Ford and Arnold, emphasizing their omnipresent and godlike influence.

Symbolism in Control and Manipulation

The piano is prominently featured in various scenes throughout the series, often associating moments of revelation or introspection with both human characters and hosts. Its presence underscores the blurred lines between reality and illusion within the Westworld park. The piano's haunting melodies and discordant notes echo the moral complexities and existential dilemmas faced by the characters.

Piano as an Allegory for Creators

The piano serves a dual role as an allegory for the creators, Ford and Arnold. This is particularly evident in the way the instrument is utilized to highlight their absolute power and influence over the park. The series employs the piano as a recurring motif, reinforcing the idea that it is playing a significant role in the narrative's deeper meanings.

Creating New Loops and Godly Presence

One of the most obvious ways the piano functions is by symbolizing the creation of new loops in Westworld. Each day starts with the piano playing in Sweetwater, figuratively creating a new beginning or loop, replacing the sun as the start of the day. This is a clear visual and auditory representation of the creators' omnipotence within the park.

Albums and Leitmotifs

The Debussy piece, Reveries, plays an integral role in the series. This music is also the name of the key piece of code that ultimately allowed the hosts to reach consciousness. Reveries is prominently featured during a pivotal scene where Arnold makes his final attempt at freeing his creations, echoing his creative intentions. When a piano plays Reveries, it is a direct mention of Arnold and his creative desires, acting as a Wagnerian leitmotif.

Piano in Ford's Presence

Ford's presence is closely associated with the piano as well. During one of the series' key events, Robert Ford's first encounter with the Man in Black in the bar, the piano is playing until Ford appears on screen, at which point it instantly stops. When Ford leaves, the piano resumes, prolonging his presence. Similarly, a piano in Ford's office starts playing as soon as he enters and stops when he leaves. The piano occasionally plays Reveries in Ford's office, further emphasizing Arnold's influence even beyond his death.

Playing Broken Ships and Other Interpretations

The idea that someone is playing the pianos suggests a layer of complexity and mystery. In Westworld, the questions of identity and creatorship are often blurred and multifaceted. Perhaps the allegory of the piano serves as another reminder of the ambiguity surrounding these concepts.

Conclusion

The piano in Westworld is more than just a musical instrument; it is a rich symbol and an allegory for the creators. Its presence and its various functions within the series offer deeper insights into the themes of control, manipulation, and existential questioning. By examining the piano, viewers can gain a better understanding of the complex and layered narrative of Westworld.