DEMISE AND BEREAVEMENT IN STEPHEN KING’S “PET SEMATARY”

Author (s) : DR.D.K.MUGESHPILLAI, MR.A.SANGEETH KUMAR, MRS.R.PREMA

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Abstract :
Stephen King’s novel “Pet Sematary” delves into the themes of demise and bereavement, exploring the profound impact of death on individuals and the lengths they are willing to go to cope with their grief. Through a chilling narrative, King presents a haunting portrayal of the human psyche when confronted with loss, ultimately questioning the consequences of tampering with the natural order of life and death. The story revolves around the Creed family, who move to the small town of Ludlow, Maine, seeking a fresh start. However, their idyllic new home hides a dark secret—a nearby ancient burial ground with supernatural powers that can bring the dead back to life. As tragedy strikes the family, they find themselves grappling with the devastating loss of a loved one, leading them down a path of desperation and despair. Stephen King masterfully explores the stages of grief experienced by the characters, particularly Louis Creed, the protagonist. Moreover, “Pet Sematary” examines the psychological toll of bereavement on the individual and the family unit. The novel portrays the strain placed relationships as grief consumes each character differently. Additionally, the novel raises thought-provoking questions about the consequences of interfering with the natural order of life and death. As the characters succumb to the temptation of the burial ground, they discover that the resurrected beings are not the same as they were in life. They return with a sinister, malevolent nature, wreaking havoc on those around them. King’s portrayal of these twisted versions of the deceased serves as a chilling reminder that death is an inevitable part of life, and tampering with it can have dire consequences. In conclusion, Stephen King’s “Pet Sematary” delves into the themes of demise and bereavement, offering a chilling exploration of the human psyche when confronted with loss. This novel serves as a cautionary tale, reminding readers the importance of accepting and processing grief in healthy ways, rather than seeking unnatural solutions that may lead to further devastation.

Keywords : Pet Sematary, novel.

Conference Date : 13/11/2020

Pages : 240

Paper ID : 20240