IT Vs. Stranger Things: What Stephen King Said

Axel S�rensen

4 min read

Post on May 09, 2025

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Thematic Resonance: Childhood Trauma and the Supernatural

Both IT and Stranger Things tap into the primal fears of childhood, using supernatural elements to amplify these vulnerabilities. This shared exploration of childhood fear is a key element in their enduring appeal.

Shared Exploration of Childhood Fear:

• IT: Exploits the primal fears of children, focusing on the fear of the unknown and the devastating effects of adult neglect. Pennywise, the malevolent shapeshifter, preys on these vulnerabilities, taking on the forms of their deepest anxieties. The inherent vulnerability of childhood is a powerful backdrop for King's horror.
• Stranger Things: Depicts children facing extraordinary threats while navigating the complexities of adolescence and friendship. The loss of innocence is a central theme, mirroring the anxieties of growing up while battling otherworldly forces. The Upside Down, a terrifying parallel dimension, perfectly embodies the childhood fear of monsters lurking in the dark. This fear is palpable throughout the series.
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The Power of Friendship and Resilience:

The importance of friendship and resilience are central themes in both narratives, providing a counterpoint to the overwhelming horror.

• IT: The Losers Club's bond is their greatest strength against IT. Their shared trauma forges an unbreakable link, allowing them to face unimaginable horrors together. Their friendship is the ultimate weapon against evil.
• Stranger Things: The core group of friends provides unwavering support, their combined skills essential for survival. Eleven's unique abilities are amplified by her friends' belief in her, highlighting the power of collaborative resilience. The power of friendship shines through as they overcome seemingly impossible odds.
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Supernatural Elements: Otherworldly Horrors and Their Manifestations

Both IT and Stranger Things present terrifying entities that tap into the protagonists' deepest fears, but the nature of these evils differs significantly.

The Nature of Evil:

• IT: Pennywise the Dancing Clown is a shapeshifting entity that feeds on fear itself. He adapts his form to exploit the individual anxieties of his victims, making him an incredibly terrifying and versatile antagonist. The entity's ability to shapeshift reflects the ever-changing nature of fear itself.
• Stranger Things: The Upside Down is a dimension teeming with monstrous creatures, a corrupted reflection of the human world. The Demogorgon, a particularly terrifying example, embodies this corruption, highlighting the dark side of reality. The Upside Down serves as a constant threat, adding layers of suspense to the story.
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The Use of Nostalgia:

Both stories use the setting and aesthetic of a specific era to enhance the atmosphere, creating a sharp contrast between the nostalgic backdrop and the terrifying events unfolding.

• IT: Set in the 1950s and 1980s Derry, Maine, the nostalgia evokes a sense of idyllic innocence shattered by the encroaching horror. The contrast between the familiar setting and the terrifying events makes the horror more impactful.
• Stranger Things: Set in the 1980s, the soundtrack, fashion, and technology of the era contribute significantly to the eerie atmosphere. The 80s setting evokes a sense of childhood and the dangers that lie hidden beneath the surface.
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Stephen King's Perspective (Direct Quotes and References):

Unfortunately, there are no readily available direct quotes from Stephen King explicitly comparing IT to Stranger Things. However, given King's prolific output and his influence on the horror genre, it's highly probable that elements of IT's success—particularly its exploration of childhood fear and the power of friendship in the face of overwhelming adversity—have subconsciously informed the creators of Stranger Things. Further research into King's interviews and writings on horror might reveal indirect connections or acknowledgements.

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Conclusion:

While a direct link between IT and Stranger Things hasn't been explicitly established by Stephen King or the show's creators, the thematic and stylistic similarities are undeniable. Both stories tap into universal fears, explore the power of friendship, and utilize potent imagery to create unforgettable horror. By examining these shared elements, we gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring power of these narratives and the profound influence of Stephen King on modern horror. Are you ready to delve deeper into the chilling parallels of IT vs Stranger Things Stephen King? Continue exploring the themes and analyses online to uncover more compelling insights.