Nature, in its raw and untamed form, often serves as a powerful harbinger of events to come. Its presence is not merely decorative; it’s deeply intertwined with the unfolding narrative, acting as both a mirror and a catalyst for the characters’ inner turmoil.

The Cycle of Destruction and Renewal

The story begins and ends with destruction,mirroring a cyclical pattern. A forest wildfire, a symbol of untamed and destructive forces, frames the narrative. This inferno can be interpreted as a portrayal of the uncontrollable instincts that engulf Grace and those around her. Fire,in this context,is not just a physical threat but a metaphor for the consuming passions and primal urges that drive the characters’ actions.

Visceral imagery: A Reflection of Inner Turmoil

the film doesn’t shy away from visceral imagery. Elements like blood, piss and mother’s milk all make an appearance, underscoring the raw and often brutal realities of existence. These stark images serve to amplify the emotional intensity of the story, forcing the audience to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature and the cycle of life.

The Enigmatic Stallion: Reality or imagination?

A wild black stallion gallops into the narrative, its presence shrouded in ambiguity. Again, it’s initially unclear whether this animal is real or imagined, but ther’s no reason why it could not be both. The stallion could represent untamed freedom,primal instincts,or even a figment of a character’s imagination,blurring the lines between reality and perception.

floral Motifs: Beauty and Decay

Flowers are ubiquitous, appearing in various forms throughout the film. Flowers are everywhere, in the fields or in vases, or depicted on wallpaper or dressing gowns or tablecloths. This abundance of floral imagery can symbolize beauty, fragility, and the ephemeral nature of life. Though, flowers can also represent decay and the certain passage of time, adding a layer of complexity to their symbolic meaning.

Animalistic presence: Foreboding and Instinct

Animals play a notable role in creating a sense of unease and foreshadowing. A stag’s head hangs above the fireplace in Jackson’s parental living room,while Jackson’s dog is a constantly barking presence. The stag’s head, a symbol of the hunt and masculine power, looms over the scene, while the dog’s incessant barking hints at underlying tension and impending danger.

Juxtaposition: Innocence and Foreboding

The film masterfully uses juxtaposition to create a sense of unease. In one foreboding forest scene, Grace walks with her baby as the delightful little April Shower from Bambi plays. The contrast between the innocent and cheerful tune from Bambi and the ominous forest setting amplifies the sense of foreboding, suggesting that danger lurks beneath the surface of apparent tranquility.