Envy Scott Pilgrim

Caroline Mae

2 min read

·

08-12-2024

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Scott Pilgrim. The name conjures images of quirky graphic novels, video game-inspired fight sequences, and a relentlessly charming, yet undeniably flawed protagonist. While many adore Scott, a closer look reveals a character riddled with self-absorption, questionable choices, and a startling lack of self-awareness. So, why do we envy him?

The Allure of the "Chosen One" Narrative

At the heart of Scott's appeal lies the classic "chosen one" narrative, albeit a highly unconventional one. He's not destined to save the world, but he is destined to win Ramona Flowers – a quest that involves defeating her seven evil exes in increasingly absurd battles. This fantastical framework allows us to vicariously experience the thrill of overcoming obstacles, even if those obstacles are, well, cartoonishly exaggerated. We project our own desires for self-improvement and romantic triumph onto Scott's journey, even if his methods are far from ideal.

The Appeal of Unrealistic Romance

Ramona Flowers is the ultimate prize, a perpetually elusive object of desire. She’s beautiful, mysterious, and frustratingly unattainable. Scott’s relentless pursuit, despite his shortcomings, taps into a deep-seated romantic fantasy: the belief that persistent effort, however misguided, can eventually conquer all. This resonates with readers and viewers who may have experienced their own share of romantic setbacks, finding solace in the exaggerated, yet ultimately successful, pursuit of love portrayed in the Scott Pilgrim universe.

The Flaws That Make Him Relatable (Sort Of)

Scott isn't a shining paragon of virtue. He's selfish, insecure, and often insensitive. He makes mistakes, sometimes spectacularly so. However, these flaws are precisely what makes him relatable. He's a flawed character navigating the complexities of relationships and self-discovery, a journey that many of us can identify with. We see ourselves in his struggles, even if we wouldn't necessarily want to emulate his behavior.

The Escapism Factor

Let's be honest: a significant part of Scott Pilgrim's appeal lies in its sheer escapism. The vibrant visuals, the over-the-top action sequences, and the witty dialogue provide a welcome distraction from the realities of everyday life. We envy Scott's ability to navigate the chaos of his life with a certain degree of nonchalant charm, even if that charm is often a thinly veiled facade.

Conclusion: A Complex Character, A Complex Reaction

Envy is a complex emotion, and our feelings towards Scott Pilgrim are no exception. It's a mix of admiration for his fantastical journey, identification with his flaws, and a desire for the unrealistic romance and effortless cool he seems to possess. While we might not necessarily want to be Scott Pilgrim, we can appreciate the escapism and the underlying wish-fulfillment that his story provides. The fact that we envy him at all speaks to the enduring power of a well-crafted, albeit flawed, protagonist.