How Does 'it Follows' Use Symbolism To Enhance Its Narrative?

In 'It Follows', the symbolism is woven so intricately into the narrative that it feels like a character itself. The relentless, shape-shifting entity that pursues the protagonist, Jay, is a metaphor for the inescapable nature of trauma, guilt, or even mortality. It’s not just a monster; it’s a manifestation of the things we can’t outrun, no matter how fast we move or how far we go. The entity’s slow, methodical approach contrasts with the frantic energy of the characters, emphasizing how some fears are patient and inevitable.

The setting, a decaying Detroit suburb, mirrors this theme of inevitability. The empty streets, abandoned houses, and overgrown lawns create a sense of isolation and decay, reflecting Jay’s internal state. The film’s use of time is also symbolic—the characters are often seen in outdated clothing or surrounded by retro technology, blurring the line between past and present. This suggests that the past is always chasing us, just like the entity.

One of the most striking symbols is the pool scene. Water often represents purification or rebirth, but here, it becomes a trap. Jay and her friends try to fight the entity in the pool, but their efforts are futile. The water, instead of cleansing, becomes a suffocating force, symbolizing how confronting trauma can sometimes feel overwhelming rather than liberating.

For those who enjoy films that use symbolism to deepen their horror, I’d recommend 'The Babadook', which explores grief through its monstrous figure, or 'Hereditary', where family trauma is symbolized through eerie, unsettling imagery. If you’re into anime, 'Perfect Blue' uses psychological symbolism to blur reality and illusion in a similarly haunting way.

'It Follows' uses symbolism to turn a simple horror premise into something deeply unsettling. The entity that follows Jay isn’t just a monster—it’s a symbol of consequences. Whether it’s guilt, regret, or the inevitability of death, the entity represents something universal. The film’s use of space is also symbolic. The characters are often framed in wide shots, emphasizing their vulnerability and the vast emptiness around them. This makes the entity’s approach feel even more menacing.

The film’s soundtrack, with its eerie, synth-heavy score, adds another layer of symbolism. It feels both nostalgic and foreboding, mirroring the way the past can haunt the present. If you’re into stories that use symbolism to explore deeper themes, check out 'The Witch' or the anime 'Serial Experiments Lain', which dives into the symbolism of identity and technology.