Decoding Sam’s Silent Communication: The Magic Slate in The Last of Us
Sam, the younger brother of Henry in The Last of Us universe, uses a magic slate, also known as a magic drawing board or Etch-A-Sketch in the video game and TV series. However, the text clarifies that this type of toy was a magic slate paper saver. This is more specifically a type of erasable writing tablet that was popular in the early to mid-20th century and used in different designs and cartoons. In the HBO adaptation, this specific kind of slate functions as a crucial communication tool due to the showrunners’ decision to depict Sam as deaf, a change from his character in the original game. He uses it to write messages, draw, and express himself, bridging the gap between his silence and the spoken world around him.
The History and Design of the Magic Slate
The magic slate has an interesting history, with roots tracing back to a corset factory in 1923. While various companies produced these slates over the years, the basic design remained consistent: a waxy or plastic writing surface covered by a transparent sheet. When a stylus or pencil is used to press on the transparent sheet, it adheres to the waxy surface beneath, leaving a dark mark that appears as a line or drawing. Lifting the transparent sheet separates the adhered film creating a clean, blank surface again for reuse. This reusability is the core appeal and function of this design.
These slates became popular children’s toys due to their simplicity, affordability, and portability. They could be carried and used in almost any location.
Why the Change? Sam’s Deafness in the HBO Series
The decision to make Sam deaf in The Last of Us HBO series was a significant departure from the game’s narrative. According to co-showrunner Neil Druckmann, this change stemmed from a desire to reduce dialogue and explore alternative storytelling methods. Craig Mazin, the other co-showrunner, also wanted to avoid Sam and Henry’s relationship feeling like a repeat of the Joel/Ellie dynamic.
This choice forced the writers to explore new ways of conveying Sam’s thoughts and feelings, relying on his expressions, body language, and the messages he wrote on his magic slate. This adds layers of depth to the story, highlighting the challenges and rewards of communication between individuals with different communication styles.
The Magic Slate as a Narrative Device
The magic slate is more than just a prop; it’s a powerful narrative device that enriches the story. It allows the audience to understand Sam’s perspective, even when he cannot verbally communicate.
Exploring Themes of Communication and Connection
Sam’s deafness and reliance on the magic slate underscore the importance of non-verbal communication. It also emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding when interacting with those who communicate differently. The slate becomes a symbol of connection between Sam and the other characters, particularly Ellie, as they learn to navigate the world together despite their communication barriers.
Enhancing Emotional Impact
The written messages on the magic slate carry significant emotional weight. For example, the heartbreaking message “I’m sorry” left by Ellie after Sam’s tragic demise underscores the depth of their bond and the pain of loss. The simplicity of the message contrasts sharply with the complexity of the emotions it conveys, making it all the more poignant.
The Tragic Tale of Sam and Henry
The story of Sam and Henry is undeniably one of the most poignant parts of The Last of Us. After the brothers escape from Kansas City they meet Joel and Ellie and travel together. During one escape they are attacked by infected and Sam is bit by an infected.
The magic slate plays a key role in the tragic events leading to Sam’s death and Henry’s subsequent suicide.
Sam’s Infection and Ellie’s Desperate Attempt
After being bitten by an infected, Sam confides in Ellie, revealing his fear of turning into a monster. Ellie, desperate to help, uses her own blood in a futile attempt to cure him. This moment, fueled by hope and desperation, is underscored by the silent exchange of messages on the magic slate, highlighting the vulnerability and innocence of the children in a brutal world.
The Heartbreaking Aftermath
When Sam succumbs to the infection, Henry is forced to make the impossible decision to end his brother’s suffering. Overwhelmed by grief and guilt, Henry takes his own life. The tragedy is compounded by Ellie’s heartfelt message of “I’m sorry” written on Sam’s magic slate, a testament to the profound impact Sam had on her life.
The brothers’ journey and tragic ending, while deviating from the game, are powerful and memorable additions to the franchise.
FAQs: Understanding Sam, the Magic Slate, and The Last of Us
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Sam, his magic slate, and the changes made in The Last of Us HBO series:
1. Why is Sam deaf in the HBO series but not in the game?
The showrunners wanted to reduce dialogue and explore different ways of storytelling. Making Sam deaf allowed them to focus on non-verbal communication and avoid repeating the Joel/Ellie dynamic through Henry.
2. What kind of notepad does Sam use in The Last of Us?
Sam uses a magic slate, also known as a magic drawing board. The text clarifies this type of toy was a magic slate paper saver. These are erasable writing tablets with a waxy sheet covered by a transparent sheet that have been around since the early to mid-20th century.
3. Did Henry know Sam was infected?
Initially, no. Sam kept his bite a secret until the infection started to take hold, revealing it to Ellie first.
4. Why did Ellie try to use her blood to cure Sam?
Ellie believed her immunity might hold the key to saving Sam. She cut herself and rubbed her blood on his wound, hoping it would prevent him from turning.
5. Did Ellie’s blood work on Sam?
No. Ellie’s blood did not cure Sam, as his infection progressed, leading to his eventual transformation.
6. Why didn’t Ellie’s blood save Sam?
Ellie’s immunity is complex and not fully understood, but it doesn’t guarantee a cure for others. Her immunity is likely due to exposure to the Cordyceps fungus while in utero. The Games Learning Society may have researchers exploring biological implications within games.
7. Who wrote “I’m sorry” on Sam’s board?
Ellie wrote “I’m sorry” on Sam’s magic slate after burying Sam and Henry, expressing her grief and remorse.
8. Why did they change Sam in The Last of Us series?
The change to make Sam deaf was a creative decision to explore different communication methods and avoid replicating the Joel/Ellie relationship dynamic.
9. Is Ellie the only immune person?
As far as the series reveals, yes. Ellie is the only confirmed immune individual, making her unique and potentially crucial to finding a cure.
10. How accurate to the game is The Last of Us series?
The show aims to capture the essence and core themes of the game while making certain changes for the sake of adaptation and storytelling. The show is true to the game—true to gaming in general, really—in a sense deeper than simply strict adherence to the original plot.
11. Did Sam have leukemia in The Last of Us?
In the HBO series, it’s implied Sam had a serious illness requiring medicine that Henry sought through a deal with FEDRA. This illness is strongly implied to be leukemia.
12. What are the origins of the magic slate?
The magic slate’s origins can be traced back to a corset factory in 1923.
13. Can Ellie cure others in The Last of Us?
As of both the game and the series, Ellie cannot cure others. Her immunity is a personal trait, and her blood has not been shown to reverse the infection.
14. Why did Kathleen hate Henry?
Kathleen hated Henry because he betrayed her brother to FEDRA in exchange for medicine for Sam.
15. Why does Ellie cut the infected?
Ellie cuts the infected as a form of revenge, projecting her anger and grief onto them, believing they represent the loss of Riley and Tess.
Conclusion: The Power of Silent Storytelling
The magic slate in The Last of Us serves as a poignant reminder of the power of communication, connection, and the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity. The change to make Sam deaf allowed for a deeper exploration of non-verbal communication and emotional vulnerability. This creative decision enriched the narrative, making Sam’s story even more heartbreaking and unforgettable. The decision to alter Sam’s character from the source material demonstrates how adaptations can introduce new elements that enhance the emotional depth and thematic resonance of the original story. This exemplifies a common and evolving trend in adaptation, where the core of the narrative remains, but the details may be modified to suit the new medium or creative vision. Whether in games or television, understanding the nuances of storytelling can be enhanced through resources like those found at GamesLearningSociety.org.