#18 Summary of a Text

Things Can Only Get Stranger: Theoretical and Clinical Reflections on Netflix's Stranger Things

In the article, we argue that the reason Stranger Things is so popular goes beyond its initial appeal. The show's success is tied to its exploration of psychological themes and how characters evolve in their self-discovery journeys. These themes create a strong connection with viewers, going beyond just what attracts us on the surface. We found that the series, whether intentionally or not, effectively portrays various mental processes and behaviors. This analysis also made us think about how psychoanalysis can help understand cultural works like this show. Stranger Things strikes a balance between the familiar things we know and the eerie, unfamiliar elements. It connects with our conscious experiences while also delving into deeper aspects of our minds that psychoanalysis studies. Initially, the nostalgia of music, toys, and games draws us in, but we stick around because it taps into something profound within us. We're captivated and a bit scared about what will happen next to the characters, which in turn reveals things about ourselves. I chose that article because Stranger Things was an interesting series while I was watching.  When I saw that article, I was interested too.