Analysis of Stephen King's The Dead Zone
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Stephen King has written dozens of novels, both recent and from decades ago. The Dead Zone is one of King's oldest books, as it was written in the late 1970s. The main character is John Smith, who gains clairvoyant abilities after recovering from an accident, and the story focuses on him and his powers.
Although the name John Smith is the most clich and overused named in literary and historical history, the character is quite unique. At a young age, Johnny fell on his head playing ice hockey, which partially unlocked his power to see in to the future, as well as see events that are happening presently but he is nowhere close to.
It is not until later, when Johnny is in a head on collision with a truck, does his full power emerge. He is in a coma for four and a half years before he awakens, only to realize he has lost the girl he loves, Sarah Bracknell, and must endure a painstaking recovery. It is during his recovery that he discovers his new power, which he sees as more of a curse than a gift.
For Johnny to use his power, he must physically touch an item or a human. When he does, he is hit with a vision related to that manifestation, and all the visions have a significance to them. He first uses his powers to warn his physical therapist her house is burning down, and by doing so manages to save her home.
Although Johnny initially, and never fully does, understand his abilities, he does put them to good use. His first significant achievement is catching Frank Dodd, the long-running serial killer of Castle Rock. Smith also foresees an apocalyptic future, and takes it upon himself to stop it.
The main antagonist is Greg Stillson, an unstable but very charismatic politician. Johnny meets Stillson at a political event, and after shaking his hand, sees the world being engulfed in nuclear war. Since he is the only one that knows this, it is up to Johnny alone to prevent the tragedy.
In order to carry out his mission, Johnny decides to assassinate Stillson. What actually happens is interesting, unforeseen, and very satisfying. The Dead Zone is regarded as one of Stephen King's greatest books, and is a must read for any fan.
In the movie, Johnny is portrayed by Christopher Walken, and by Anthony Michael Hall in the television show. Also of interest is the fact that portions of The Dead Zone are mentioned in another fantastic King novel, Needful Things. The novel has also been parodied on a few shows, including South Park.
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