The Symbolic Meaning of Floating in Stephen King’s 'It': A Comprehensive Analysis

Stephen King's novel It is renowned for its vivid and disturbing imagery, and one of the most haunting and often-referenced scenes involves the character Pennywise talking about floating. Through this article, we will delve into the symbolic meanings behind Pennywise's use of the phrase 'floating,' exploring its manipulation, symbolism, and foreshadowing in the narrative.

Manipulation: Luring Georgie Closer

One of the primary uses of the phrase 'floating' by Pennywise is to manipulate Georgie Tun_population into a false sense of safety and camaraderie. In the novel, Pennywise tells Georgie: 'They float.' This insinuates that the process of floating, which Georgie imagines as a carefree and desirable state, is misleading. In reality, it is a prelude to a terrifying fate. For instance, in the 1990 miniseries, victims were trapped underground in a great spiraling spider web where they floated, only to be eaten by Pennywise.

Symbolism of Fear and Death

The phrase 'floating' is rich with symbolism, especially in relation to fear and death. By using this word, Pennywise suggests that succumbing to fear or evil means becoming part of the darkness. Those who fall victim to Pennywise do not die in the traditional sense but are instead pulled into his realm. They exist in a different state, trapped in a world beyond the living. This concept is mirrored in Georgie’s musings about whether turds float in the sewers, a reference that is used by Pennywise to manipulate the child into a false sense of acceptance.

Foreshadowing: A Hint at Inevitable Doom

The use of the phrase 'floating' in the novel serves as a form of foreshadowing. It hints at the predatory nature of Pennywise and the terrifying fate that awaits those who encounter him. The phrase suggests that Georgie and other victims will eventually succumb to this fate, becoming part of the dreaded realm that Pennywise controls.

The Symbolism Behind 'Floating'

Pennywise, an evil entity with infinite powers, refers to the floating state as a symbolic representation of what happens to those who fall into his clutches. His true form resides in the Deadlights, a place floating around in the space outside of the universe that is madness-inducing. When someone is 'eaten' by Pennywise, their soul is trapped in this void, leading to endless torment. It is this concept that guides Pennywise's manipulation of Georgie and the other children.

Conclusion

Understanding the symbolic meaning of 'floating' in It is crucial for appreciating the deeper themes and messages within the novel. By leveraging the manipulation, symbolism, and foreshadowing of the concept, King paints a chilling picture of darkness and the terrors that lurk beyond the veil of reality. This analysis not only enhances our reading experience but also provides valuable insights into the psychological and literary landscapes that make It a timeless classic.

References:

Stephen King. It. Television miniseries, 1990. Stephen King. It. HarperCollins, 1986. Stephen King. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft. Scribner, 2000.