The Changeling: The importance of Lillian - carrying a long-held secret explained

In the episode "Stormy Weather Transcript" of The Changeling, author Victor LaValle weaves together multiple storylines and themes to explore the rewriting of history in America. At the center of this narrative is the character of Lillian, who carries a long-held secret. This secret holds immense importance within the overall plot, as it shapes Lillian's past, affects her relationships, and ultimately has consequences that cannot be escaped.Throughout the episode, flashbacks reveal that Lillian experienced a traumatic event in 1981 that changed the course of her life. As she contemplates her story and the consequences of her actions, she questions if she could have altered the trajectory of her family's history. This introspection highlights the burden that secrets can place on an individual, leading to feelings of guilt, regret, and the constant reevaluation of one's decisions.Lillian's reflection on her childhood in Uganda provides insight into the pressures she feels to conform in a society that may not fully embrace her identity. Her jajja (grandmother) imparts important life lessons, emphasizing the importance of doing things for loved ones and not allowing a man to control her emotions. This dynamic adds depth to Lillian's character, as it showcases her struggles with cultural expectations, gender roles, and the desire to fit into a new environment.The regret Lillian feels about not preparing traditional mandazis for her son, Apollo, illustrates her conflicting desires to honor her heritage while also ensuring her child's acceptance in American society. This internal conflict is further exacerbated by her aspirations of being a good husband and a great father, as she realizes the fear she has unknowingly passed on to Apollo. This aspect of Lillian's character emphasizes the complexity of her role as a parent and the weight of her secret on the future generations of her family.Lillian's relationship with her father, explored through the flashbacks, reveals a pattern of jealousy and unfulfilled desires. She acknowledges that she chose a partner who couldn't truly love her, using him as a cover-up for her mistake. This pattern mirrors her father's search for satisfaction outside of their relationship, causing Lillian to question whether she can break free from the cycle of disappointment and unfulfilled longings. The contradictions and extremes of their relationship serve as a metaphor for the broader theme of rewriting history and the consequences it can have on personal relationships.As the episode progresses, Lillian's secret becomes intertwined with her current struggles, primarily her deteriorating relationship with her partner and the fear of losing her son. Her partner's threatening behavior escalates, leaving her feeling lost and hopeless, fearing that she may never see Apollo again. Lillian's decision to plot her escape and protect her son at all costs showcases her strength and determination, despite the immense challenges she faces.In a moment of despair, Lillian encounters her jajja, who encourages her to seek strength from the spirits and challenges her self-punishment. This interaction highlights the cultural and spiritual elements of Lillian's identity and emphasizes the importance of seeking solace and guidance during difficult times. Lillian's engagement in prayer further showcases her resilience and her willingness to confront her actions and their consequences.The secret plan that Lillian makes signifies a turning point in her character arc, as she becomes the mother she always desired to be. This newfound determination and hope are symbolically tied to the emergence of the sun, finally allowing Lillian to feel like she belongs in America. However, the ominous tone introduced at the end of the episode reminds viewers that secrets have consequences, and history cannot be erased. This foreshadows the impending cost of Lillian's actions, suggesting that her long-held secret will have far-reaching ramifications in future episodes.Overall, Lillian's long-held secret serves as a driving force in the episode "Stormy Weather Transcript" of The Changeling. It shapes her past, influences her relationships, and fuels her determination to protect her son. Through Lillian's character, Victor LaValle explores the complexity of personal history, the weight of secrets, and the consequences that can reverberate through generations. Ultimately, Lillian's journey exemplifies the struggle to reconcile one's past actions and the quest for redemption in the face of an unforgiving history.