This is the fourth part of our LOST homeschool curriculum – symbolism (PART I – THEMES is here.) Strong references to mythology and other symbols have opened much opportunity to include symbols in the series, making it a very interesting show to analyze.

NOTE: If you watch the series, this will all make sense to you. If you don’t watch the series, I highly recommend it, but you have to watch it from the beginning – we purchased the first 4 seasons on DVD. You can’t just watch a couple episodes and have any understanding at all. My series here includes only the simplest of the discussion points. For in depth LOST analysis, please visit the message boards or Lostpedia.

Here are a few of the general points of discussion related to symbols – they often tie in directly to the themes I discussed in part one of this series:

Light/Dark – Throughout the series, you’ll find situations where two opposing forces are represented one dark and one light. Examples of dark/light include the backgammon game and the clothing worn by Jacob and the other man in the Season 5 finale. Interestingly, Rose and Bernard also represent light/dark skin color, but are both viewed as “good”, and not really opposites.

Rain — Rain is a frequent occurrence in Lost, usually supporting dramatic effect and accompanying significant scenes or plot twists.

Music/sound — Michael Giacchino’s musical score for Lost makes use of numerous recurring leitmotifs and themes, often with associations to specific characters, locations, or actions. (Source: LostPedia) Other noises are also symbolic of the Smoke Monster – sometimes a metallic/growling noise, sometimes like a scraping chain.

Babies/children — Many storylines include babies and children, and in general there’s a mystery regarding children on the island.

Pregnancy — There are numerous problems with pregnancy on the island, and I think this theme will continue into season 6.

Numbers — Numerology is strong in this series, and you’ll find the same numbers used over and over, in one form or another. Most stem from the “cursed” numbers Hurley used in the lottery: 4, 8, 15, 16, 23, 42. Apparently, these numbers also represent the core to the Valenzetti Equation, a mathematical formula designed to predict the end of humanity. Lostpedia is an excellent reference for all LOST numerology.

Symbols that seem to have been a point of focus so far, but I’m not sure for what reason:

Rings – Rose’s wedding ring, Sun’s wedding ring, and Charlie’s ring.

Shoes – They appear randomly, and in many episodes.

Kate’s Horse — Possibly the spirit of her dead father? Or her guide?

This is by no means a comprehensive list. Please share other symbols that you’ve noticed in the show.

LOST Homeschool Lessons Series:
Themes
Character Arc
Symbols
Games!
History/Literature