news 
I recently had the opportunity to watch episode 7 of Severance, titled ‘Sweet Vitriol,’ and I have to admit that I initially missed the point of the entire episode. While it may not be my favorite installment in the series so far, I can now see how this pivotal moment is crucial to understanding the show’s core themes.
At first glance, the Cobel-focused episode seemed like a departure from what Severance has been doing well. However, as I re-watched and reflected on the content, I began to grasp the significance of this storyline. It turns out that Cobel was the one who initially conceived the idea behind severance, rather than any member of the Eagan family.
The backstory provided sheds light on Cobel’s motivations and the traumatic experiences she endured in her childhood. Specifically, it highlights her connection with Lumon’s factory, which employed child labor at a perilously young age. It’s no wonder that she would develop an innovative solution to dissociate from the trauma associated with such a workplace.
Cobel’s intention was not to create a tool for people to disassociate from their work, but rather as a means to escape the horrors of her past. This adds a new layer of complexity to Cobel’s character and serves as a powerful commentary on the devastating effects that trauma can have on an individual.
Furthermore, this revelation extends beyond just Cobel’s narrative arc, touching on themes that are central to the show’s overall message. The notion that people may disassociate from their emotions, memories, or even identities in order to cope with pain is a crucial aspect of Severance.
In retrospect, I must admit that my initial reaction was misguided. While ‘Sweet Vitriol’ may not be the most engaging episode, it serves as an essential part of the series and deepens our understanding of the characters and their motivations.
I encourage viewers to reconsider this installment and appreciate its significance in the grand scheme of Severance’s narrative.
