Anakin Skywalker Literally Me

Cynthia May

2 min read

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17-01-2025

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Let's be honest, we've all been there. That overwhelming sense of responsibility, the burning desire to protect the ones we love, the crippling fear of loss… sound familiar? While most of us haven't faced down intergalactic empires or wielded lightsabers, the emotional core of Anakin Skywalker resonates with a surprising number of us. It's easy to dismiss him as a whiny, angsty teen who became a genocidal maniac, but a closer look reveals a complex character whose struggles are remarkably relatable, even if the stakes are a little higher.

The Weight of Expectation

Anakin's story is fundamentally one of pressure. From a young age, he's burdened with immense potential, prophesied to bring balance to the Force. This weight of expectation, coupled with the constant fear of losing those he cares about, fuels his anxieties and insecurities. We may not be chosen ones, destined to save galaxies, but many of us can relate to the feeling of immense pressure to succeed, whether it's at work, in school, or in our personal lives. The constant need to perform, the fear of disappointing others – these are universal experiences.

The Fear of Loss

Anakin's deepest fear, arguably the catalyst for his downfall, is the loss of his loved ones. This fear, deeply rooted in his childhood experiences, manifests as an overwhelming need for control. He desperately tries to prevent tragedy, ultimately leading him down a dark path. This resonates with all of us. The fear of losing someone we cherish is a primal fear, one that can drive us to make irrational decisions. While we may not turn to the dark side, we can all understand the desperation to protect those we love.

The Struggle with Anger

Anakin's anger is arguably his most defining trait, a volatile emotion that he struggles to control throughout the prequels. His rage, fuelled by fear and loss, ultimately consumes him. This internal conflict, the struggle to manage intense emotions, is something many people understand. Controlling our anger, especially in the face of adversity, is a lifelong challenge. Anakin's journey, though extreme, serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of unchecked rage.

More Than Just a Villain

While Anakin's actions in Revenge of the Sith are undoubtedly villainous, understanding his motivations allows for a more nuanced perspective. He’s not simply a bad guy; he's a tragically flawed character grappling with overwhelming emotions and pressures. His story is a cautionary tale, reminding us that even the most powerful individuals can be vulnerable to their own weaknesses.

In conclusion, while we might not face the same challenges as Anakin Skywalker, his struggles with responsibility, fear, and anger are undeniably relatable. His story, far from being a simple tale of good versus evil, offers a poignant exploration of the human condition, reminding us of our own vulnerabilities and the importance of self-control. So, the next time you find yourself overwhelmed by pressure or struggling to control your emotions, remember Anakin. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll feel a little less alone.