The Last of Us Part II, in Quotes

Famous thinkers like Confucius and Neitzsche put Naughty Dog’s controversial game in perspective

Confucius is known to the current generation as the originator of many great one liners. The man really knew his stuff about the human condition and philosophy though. After reading the fantastic Paul Tassi’s review on The Last of Us Part II, where he quoted the ancient Chinese philosopher, I was inspired to look up more of his quotes. Throw in a bit of Nietzsche and one from Marvel, and you’ve got something going.

CONFUCIUS: “Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves”

I can’t think of a more perfect way to start the discussion of Ellie’s journey than this quote. This was the main theme of the game, stated from the beginning by Naughty Dog’s Neil Druckmann. Revenge, obsession, and the cost to everyone involved is the story of this game. Confucius knew that the price paid by the one seeking revenge is just as great as the ultimate price they hope to visit upon the one who wronged them. As we see Ellie return to a sullenly empty homestead at the end of the game, she is not physically in the grave but a huge part of her has died all the same.