What Makes Loki Tick: Exploring Themes of Time, Survival, and Control
Loki, the enigmatic and mischievous character from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), continues to fascinate fans with his complex personality and actions. To truly understand what drives Loki, one must delve into the themes of time, survival, and control that pervade his narrative arc.
The Eternal Ticking of Time
The answer to the question, 'What makes Loki tick?' is essentially a reflection on the nature of time. According to Loki, time is eternal, immortal, and has no beginning or end—it only regulates the moments or 'ticks' that make up existence. These moments are governed by the Time Variance Authority (TVA), a regulatory body that manages the flow of time and ensures that every variant of Loki exists within the confines of the established timeline.
However, Loki, like other variants, is also subject to the TVA's oversight. When the timeline coincides, the TVA has the authority to prune or remove these temporal anomalies. This pruning ensures that only the 'correct' or desired events occur, effectively 'omitting' the errors that don't conform to the established order. The TVA's role in regulating and pruning Loki's existence explains why his moments or 'ticks' are so significant and why they must align with the timeline for him to continue existing.
The Drive for Survival
Survival is a constant theme throughout all of Loki's variants. Born as an abandoned Frost Giant runt, Loki's odds of survival were slim from birth. If not for Odin's intervention, the harsh elements likely would have claimed him. However, Odin's discovery and adoption gave Loki a new life and a place to thrive. This newfound survival instinct is reflected in his actions and behavior across the variants. Loki constantly seeks to outwit and manipulate others to ensure his safety and live each moment to the fullest. His skill for trickery and magical illusion developed under his adoptive mother further underscores his drive to survive and thrive.
The Unwavering Desire for Control and Obedience
Despite his chaotic nature, Loki fundamentally desires absolute obedience. As the God of Mischief, his primary goal is to be the most formidable threat to mankind and the universe. However, he recognizes that achieving ultimate control is beyond his reach. Instead, he focuses on securing a semblance of power through the control of others. His need for absolute obedience stems from the desire to eliminate any consequences. When others bow to his word and fear his authority, Loki is able to operate without fear of retribution. This trait is evident in his actions, such as his possession of the Scepter, which was powered by the Mind Stone.
The Scepter, originally a Chitauri weapon, was transformed into a containment vessel for the Mind Stone. In this form, it granted Loki a significant amount of control and power. Upon his arrival on Earth, Loki used the Scepter to manipulate situations, both for his own gain and to further his own agenda. The Mind Stone's influence amplified his abilities, making him a force to be reckoned with. This possession exemplifies Loki's relentless pursuit of control and his inherent drive to seek and maintain power.
Conclusion
In summary, what makes Loki tick is a complex interplay of themes that include the eternal ticking of time, the relentless drive for survival, and the desire for absolute obedience and control. These themes not only define Loki's actions but also provide insight into his enduring popularity among fans. Understanding these themes can help unravel the complexities of Loki's character and his influence on the broader narrative of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.