Why Are There So Many Eggs in Severance?

Apple TV+’s hit series, Severance, has captivated audiences with its eerie corporate dystopia, compelling mysteries, and deep symbolism. Among the repeated motifs, one stands out: eggs.

Fans of the show have been speculating about their significance. This is because eggs appear in multiple episodes and seem to hold a deeper meaning beyond just being food. So, what’s the deal with all the eggs in Severance? Let’s break it down.

Eggs as a Symbol of Rebirth and Transformation in Severance

In many cultures, eggs represent birth, renewal, and transformation. In Severance, this symbolism aligns with the characters’ experiences as they undergo the severance procedure. This essentially creates a “new” version of themselves, separate from their outside world counterpart. The consumption of eggs in the show could represent this transformation, an acceptance (or forced acceptance) of the new identity imposed on Lumon employees.

For example, Irving (John Turturro) is seen painting black, ominous images including eggs, suggesting that deep down, he may be questioning the true nature of Lumon’s control. Additionally, Mark (Adam Scott) is given eggs during breakfast in the real world, possibly hinting at his subconscious struggle to reconcile his two identities.

Culinary Rewards and Control

Inside Lumon Industries, food serves as a method of control. Employees are frequently rewarded with treats like waffle parties, melon snacks, and—of course—the “egg bar.” The egg bar is treated as a rare privilege, showing how Lumon manipulates its workers by offering small joys in an otherwise monotonous, oppressive environment.

By infantilizing employees with simple food rewards, Lumon maintains its dominance over them. The egg bar scene is particularly unsettling, as it highlights how easily the workers can be pacified with something as trivial as a hard-boiled egg. This further reinforces the idea that severed employees are essentially trapped in a childlike state, with their entire world reduced to the corporate office.

Echoes of Cult-like Rituals in Severance

Beyond serving as a reward, eggs also hint at Lumon’s cult-like indoctrination. Many religious and spiritual practices use eggs in rituals to symbolize enlightenment or sacrifice. Given the way Lumon operates, it’s not far-fetched to see eggs as part of its conditioning tactics.

Even Lumon’s logo resembles an egg. This reinforces the idea that the company views itself as the “creator” of its employees’ new lives. The severance procedure itself could be likened to hatching. Employees are metaphorically reborn as obedient, controlled versions of themselves, just as a chick hatches into a new world.

Creator’s Perspective on Egg Symbolism

Dan Erickson, the creator of Severance, has acknowledged the deliberate use of eggs in the show. He noted that while eggs are an ordinary food item, they become strange and unsettling when you really think about them. This aligns with the show’s broader themes. It makes you question what we accept as normal and examine the unsettling aspects of corporate culture.

The egg imagery in Severance is far from random. It symbolizes rebirth, control, and the eerie cult-like nature of Lumon Industries. Whether it’s a simple meal, a reward system, or a deeper metaphor for the severance process itself, eggs serve as a subtle but powerful motif in the show.

As fans await Severance Season 2, we can only wonder how this symbolism will evolve and if we’ll finally crack the mystery behind Lumon’s true purpose.

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