Setting the Scene
What Does the Smell Symbolize in Parasite, Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite is a cinematic masterpiece that swept the Oscars and left audiences across the globe in awe. The film brilliantly weaves subtle symbols into its narrative, one of the most striking being smell. But why is smell such a significant detail in Parasite?
The Power of Symbolism in Parasite
Every frame in Parasite tells a story, and Bong’s use of smell is no exception. It serves as a metaphor that unravels the complex web of class divides and societal hierarchies. Let’s delve deeper into what the smell symbolizes in this award-winning film.
Understanding the Role of Smell in Parasite
Smell as a Social Divider
Smell in Parasite acts as an invisible yet powerful force separating the wealthy Park family from the struggling Kim family. It represents an unseen barrier, highlighting how class differences manifest in even the most unexpected ways.
The Stigma of Poverty in the Film
For the Kim family, their smell becomes a marker of their socioeconomic status. The odor is a constant reminder of their cramped, semi-basement dwelling, which lacks proper ventilation and sanitation.
How Smell Bridges and Breaks Relationships
Interestingly, smell also plays a dual role—it brings the families together (as the Kims infiltrate the Parks’ household) but ultimately drives them apart.
The Park Family’s Perception of Smell
Associating Smell with Class
The Park family, especially Mr. Park, frequently comments on the “peculiar” odor of the Kim family. It’s not overt hostility, but their remarks carry an undertone of superiority.
Mr. Park’s Comments on the Kim Family’s Smell
One of the pivotal moments is Mr. Park describes the smell as “people who ride the subway.” This subtle jab underscores his unconscious bias against those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
The Kim Family’s Struggle with Identity
The Burden of Being “Outed” by Smell
For the Kim family, the acknowledgment of their smell is deeply humiliating. It’s not just an odor; it’s a label that strips away their carefully crafted facade of fitting into the Parks’ world.
The Impact on the Family’s Psyche
This realization leaves the Kims grappling with their identity. They’re acutely aware of the gap between their reality and the world they aspire to belong to.
Smell as a Metaphor for Inequality
Physical Separation Represented Through Smell
The different living conditions of the two families directly correlate to their smells. While the Parks live in a spacious, well-ventilated home, the Kims endure the stench of urban poverty.
Comparing Living Spaces and Odors
The stark contrast between the semi-basement’s damp, musty odor and the fresh, clean scent of the Parks’ home emphasizes the social chasm.
The Rain Scene and Its Connection to Smell
How Rain Exposes Socioeconomic Gaps
When a rainstorm floods the Kims’ home, it washes away their belongings and exacerbates the odor of their living space. This starkly contrasts the Parks, who see the rain as a mere inconvenience.
The Role of Smell in Revealing the Aftermath
As the Kims return to the Parks’ house, their smell becomes even more pronounced, further solidifying the divide.
How Bong Joon-ho Uses Smell to Drive the Plot
The Turning Point in the Party Scene
The party scene marks a significant turning point. Mr. Kim overhears Mr. Park’s disparaging remarks about his smell, which triggers a climactic moment of rage.
Mr. Kim’s Breaking Point and Smell’s Role in It
This casual comment becomes the last straw, symbolizing how deeply entrenched class prejudice can wound individuals.
Symbolism Beyond Smell: The Bigger Picture
Exploring Other Visual and Auditory Symbols
While smell is central, Bong also uses visual cues like architecture and auditory elements like silence to enhance the narrative.
How They Tie Back to Smell
These elements, combined with the metaphor of smell, paint a comprehensive picture of systemic inequality.
Conclusion
Reflecting on the Power of Subtle Symbolism
What Does the Smell Symbolize in Parasite, Bong Joon-ho’s genius lies in his ability to weave profound societal commentary into everyday details like smell.
Smell as a Representation of Class Struggles
Ultimately, the smell in Parasite symbolizes the invisible yet inescapable divide between social classes, making it one of the film’s most compelling metaphors.
FAQs
What does the smell represent in Parasite?
It symbolizes the class divide and societal inequality between the Park and Kim families.
How does the Park family view the Kim family’s smell?
They see it as peculiar and a marker of lower socioeconomic status, often associating it with subway commuters.
What role does smell play in the rain scene?
The rain amplifies the Kims’ odor, emphasizing the disparity in living conditions between the families.
Is smell the most prominent metaphor in the movie?
While it’s central, Bong Joon-ho also uses other symbols like architecture and sound to highlight class struggles.
How does Bong Joon-ho use smell to highlight inequality?
He ties smell to living conditions, personal identity, and social prejudice, making it a subtle yet powerful commentary on class disparity.
