Are you wondering how Zombies became the new gourmet cupcake? As a zombie enthusiast myself, I’m just the man to explain this phenomena.
Let me start with the most obtrusive feature of the zombie genre, violence and gore. Much like death and taxes, this aspect of the genre is necessary, but is an element of lesser importance in a good zombie production. Personally, I don’t much care for the gore and destruction; I can’t make it through an episode of Grey’s Anatomy without shielding my eyes or leaving the room. Nevertheless, the violence and destruction creates a framework for the zombie world.
“Right, as the world goes, is only in question between equals in power, while the strong do what they can and the weak suffer what they must.” –Thucydides
We have learned that life after the zombie apocalypse is not for the faint of heart. There is no morality, altruism or sympathy. Things that we take for granted, access to fuel, running water and Seinfeld reruns are completely nonexistent.
Life’s purpose is instantly uncluttered and made simple. The complicated human emotions, friendship, empathy and forgiveness become white noise to the lure of survival.
I think that’s why the zombie genre is so appealing. Despite the perceived chaos of the zombie apocalypse, its simplicity is refreshing when compared to our own. We all think we could survive, throw morality to the wind and lead the next phase of human existence. The age old axiom says that when life’s purpose becomes realized, fulfillment can be achieved. Besides, when you’re staring down a midterm, a divorce or unemployment, a few limping monsters aren’t nearly as frightening.
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