The World According to Garp (1982) Ending Explained
TL;DR:
The World According to Garp (1982), based on John Irving's novel, follows the tumultuous life of T.S. Garp (Robin Williams), a writer whose existence is shaped by his unconventional mother, Jenny Fields (Glenn Close). The film's ending encapsulates themes of mortality, legacy, and the cyclical nature of life. After surviving numerous tragedies, Garp is fatally shot by a deranged fan of his mother's feminist movement. The film concludes with his family and friends carrying on his legacy, symbolizing that life persists despite loss. The ending is bittersweet, emphasizing the absurdity and beauty of human existence while leaving some questions about fate and purpose unresolved.
Detailed Explanation of the Ending:
The finale of The World's According to Garp is a culmination of the film's exploration of life's unpredictability and the inevitability of death. Garp, who has endured personal tragedies-including the death of his younger son and the infidelity of his wife-meets his end in a moment of cruel irony. A disgruntled woman, enraged by Jenny Fields' feminist manifesto, shoots Garp in his own driveway, mistaking him for his mother. This violent act underscores the film's recurring motif of life's randomness and the precariousness of existence. Garp's death is sudden and senseless, mirroring the absurdity that permeates his life.
The aftermath of Garp's death is depicted with a quiet poignancy. His family and friends gather to mourn, but the focus shifts to the continuation of life. His surviving son, Duncan, is shown playing football, a sport Garp once feared would harm him. This scene symbolizes the resilience of the human spirit and the idea that life moves forward despite tragedy. Jenny Fields, who outlives her son, reflects on the irony of her own longevity compared to Garp's untimely demise. The film's closing moments suggest that while individuals may perish, their influence endures through those they leave behind.
Unresolved Questions and Possible Answers:
1. Why did Garp have to die in such a random, violent way?
- The film emphasizes life's unpredictability; his death reflects the novel's theme that tragedy often strikes without reason.
- It also serves as a critique of extremism, as Garp becomes collateral damage in a conflict tied to his mother's activism.
What is the significance of Duncan playing football at the end?
- It represents the cyclical nature of life and the passing of generational traits.
- It could also imply that Duncan has overcome the fears that once haunted Garp, suggesting growth and healing.
Does Jenny Fields feel guilt for indirectly causing Garp's death?
- The film hints at her quiet remorse, but her stoic demeanor suggests she accepts life's harsh realities.
- Alternatively, she may see Garp's death as another example of the world's cruelty, reinforcing her worldview.
Personal Opinion on the Ending and the Film:
The ending of The World According to Garp is both heartbreaking and deeply resonant. It captures the essence of John Irving's novel-life's absurdity, the inevitability of suffering, and the small moments of beauty that make it worthwhile. Garp's death is shocking but thematically consistent, reinforcing the idea that no one is immune to fate's whims. The film's strength lies in its ability to balance dark humor with profound sadness, creating a narrative that feels authentic and emotionally impactful. While the ending may frustrate some viewers with its lack of resolution, it ultimately serves as a powerful meditation on mortality and legacy.
Final Thoughts:
The World According to Garp is a film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. Its ending is a masterclass in tonal balance, blending tragedy with hope and leaving audiences to ponder life's big questions. Garp's story is one of love, loss, and the messy, unpredictable journey of being human. The film's conclusion, though somber, is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the indelible mark we leave on the world, even in death. Whether you view it as nihilistic or life-affirming, the ending undeniably cements the film's status as a poignant and unforgettable work.