Louis vs. Grief and Denial

Louis Creed struggles with overwhelming grief after Gage's death, leading him to deny reality and attempt to reverse death through supernatural means.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Initial Shock

Numbness The Accident Louis witnesses Gage's death. He is in shock. He goes through the motions of the funeral mechanically. Emotional Block Louis cannot cry or express grief. He feels empty. He focuses on practical tasks to avoid facing his pain. Denial Louis begins to think about Church's resurrection. He convinces himself that he can bring Gage back. Denial becomes his coping mechanism.

The Plan Forms

Rationalization Justification Louis tells himself that the Micmac burying ground worked for Church, so it can work for Gage. He ignores the changes in Church. Isolation Louis sends Rachel and Ellie to Chicago. He isolates himself to carry out his plan. He lies to everyone. Obsession Louis becomes obsessed with the idea of resurrection. He cannot think of anything else. Grief has warped his judgment.

The Act

Crossing the Line Exhumation Louis digs up Gage's grave. He is horrified but continues. He carries Gage's body to the burying ground. Burial Louis buries Gage in the Micmac ground. He feels a mix of hope and dread. He returns home exhausted. Aftermath Louis waits for Gage to return. He knows he has done something irreversible. His denial is about to shatter.

immediately after Gage's death

days after Gage's death

night after Gage's funeral