Analyzing grief and celebrating those who passed away in Star Wars

As a lifelong Star Wars enthusiast who has spent countless hours immersed in the rich tapestry of stories and characters that populate this galaxy far, far away, I find myself constantly amazed at the depth of emotional resonance woven into its fabric. The way in which the franchise handles the themes of life, death, and grief is nothing short of masterful, and it’s a testament to the power of storytelling that these stories continue to speak to us even decades after their initial release.

As Halloween draws near, it originated as a time to commemorate the deceased. Abundant with instances where characters in Star Wars pay tribute to the departed, from the Mourning Shrines seen in the Allegiance comics to the Bellassan Nine Days of Mourning depicted in The Last Jedi, let’s examine some of these examples and potential lessons we can apply to our own lives.

Those who join the Force

In the ancient days of the Galactic Republic, the Jedi Order had a profound and intricate connection with emotional bonds. As Anakin Skywalker puts it in “Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones”, “Emotional attachments are prohibited…yet empathy, or pure love without condition, is essential to a Jedi’s existence.” Given that Qui-Gon Jinn perished during the Battle of Naboo, it was only fitting for the people of this planet to honor their fallen hero by holding a funeral before they celebrated their victory.

In a different phrasing, Yoda’s advice to Anakin in Episode III: Revenge of the Sithseems unhelpful and misplaced. Anakin is overwhelmed with premonitions of death and loss, and instead of comfort or guidance, Yoda says “Death is an integral aspect of life.” This conversation takes place between two Jedi who have been through three years of the Clone Wars, making their current anxiety and concern understandable. A Jedi Master whose own wife’s demise might be imminent doesn’t need to hear that he should “Find joy in those around you as they become one with the Force.

As a gamer, when I’m hit with a tough loss, instead of dwelling on it, I can draw strength from my gaming principles. A Jedi, too, facing the emotional turmoil of loss, could find solace in their beliefs. This kind of person might benefit from the advice to “Celebrate those who have moved on and joined the Force.

Corellia and Alderaan

In the Star Wars Legends novel, X-wing: The Bacta War by Michael A. Stackpole, we encounter two touching ways of handling grief presented in different regions. Chapter 4 reveals that Corran Horn journeys to the Corellian Sanctuary to console his friend and partner, Iella Wessiri, following her husband’s demise. Due to political turmoil, it is impossible for Corellians to return home. In this unique setting, the ashes of the deceased are transformed into diamonds, symbolizing a physical immortality for the departed. These diamonds are then incorporated into the walls and ceiling, forming constellations that would be seen from Corellia if peace were restored.

Seven chapters on, Tycho Celchu executes a Return to Alderaan, a place he had communicated with his family prior to its destruction, an event that haunted him ever since. People often refer to this incident as a turning point, and Tycho explains how the energy that once fueled Alderaan’s pacifist ideology now centers around the concept of Return. He buys gifts for his loved ones, sealing them in a capsule, and sends them into the debris field that was once Alderaan. Tycho expresses a wish that when his time comes, he may be reunited with them there, ensuring an eternal togetherness that they should have shared in life.

Eulogy

In the book “Legacy of the Force: Inferno,” Mara Jade is honored with heartfelt tributes. Notably, a meal to remember her is shared among those attending, following the ceremony. It’s also worth noting that as Mara is commemorated through spoken words, her physical form dissolves into the Force.

In the novel adaptation of “Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi“, Leia is tasked with organizing a memorial service for Han. At first, she had no desire to hold such an event amidst impending war, but Admiral Ackbar persuaded her otherwise. During this occasion, she fondly recalls the man she cherished and adds a tribute that also honors his memory:

We must return to the fight. We do so because, like Han, we believe in justice and freedom… We all have our sorrows. And we will never forget them or those we have lost. In time, we will honor them more fully and properly. But we must save our sorrow or after the fight. Because right now, we have work to do.
Leia Organa

As I neared the climax of this game’s storyline, it felt right that Admiral Holdo acknowledged Leia for guiding me through dealing with defeat.

Let’s find the moments to honor our dear ones, so that we can gather strength and continue living with resilience.

2024-10-30 18:21