Summary
Daryl's dream confirms that he cares about Laurent's safety and is invested in helping him and Isabelle.
The dream implies that Daryl is beginning to acknowledge Laurent's uniqueness, even though he had doubts before. The closing of the dream, where Laurent departs with the zombies, represents Daryl's apprehension of losing his loved ones to the walkers, compelling him to safeguard Laurent.
In The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon episode 4, the story kicks off with a perplexing dream sequence that holds significant symbolism for two key characters. The episode commences with Daryl Dixon, played by Norman Reedus, urgently calling out for Laurent as he finds himself surrounded by zombies. Surprisingly, the undead completely ignore Laurent after he starts praying, leaving Daryl in a state of utter confusion.
Daryl's Dream Confirms He's Starting To Care About Laurent
: The Fictional EncounterThroughout the series, Daryl initially showed reluctance in participating in the nuns' mission to transport Laurent. Although he eventually agreed to assist them, he made it clear that his primary objective was returning to Alexandria. Isabelle confronted him in Daryl Dixon episode 3, highlighting his sole concern for getting back home. However, despite his previous statements, there are instances that demonstrate Daryl's genuine commitment to aiding both Laurent and Isabelle. His refusal to allow Isabelle to strike a deal with Quinn solely for his own benefit, coupled with his dreams involving Laurent in significant danger, affirms that Daryl deeply values the well-being of both characters.
The Dream Sequence Suggests Daryl DOES Think Laurent Is Special
At first glance, Daryl and Laurent seem to have nothing in common. However, a surprising twist in episode 3 reveals that they actually share a common bond. It turns out that both have had difficult relationships with their fathers, who were often absent from their lives. Furthermore, Daryl shows a deep understanding and empathy towards Laurent when he admits that he doesn't aspire to be "special" like the nuns want him to be. Despite the reasons behind it, Daryl genuinely cares about Laurent's well-being and this becomes evident in episode 4. Here, Daryl goes to great lengths to protect him from Quinn.
The dream is intriguing as it goes beyond merely highlighting Daryl's desire to protect Laurent. The fact that Laurent is able to make the zombies retreat by praying contradicts Daryl's steadfast belief in the nuns' convictions. Throughout the story, Daryl has been unsuccessful in persuading Isabelle that Laurent is just an ordinary child, firmly holding onto his stance. However, the dream suggests that Daryl may secretly be grappling with doubts regarding his perception of Laurent.
Dreaming about Laurent's potential power over the zombies implies that Daryl has at least considered the idea that Laurent may possess some special abilities. Apart from the supposed prophetic drawing in episode 1, Daryl has yet to witness any substantial evidence supporting Isabelle's claims. However, he has encountered numerous survivors who firmly believe in Laurent's capacity to become their savior. Interacting with so many like-minded individuals willing to do anything for Laurent's sake may have slightly influenced Daryl's perspective. Additionally, Laurent's impact on people, such as the sick woman in episode 3, could have played a role as well.
Why Laurent Leaves With The Zombies In Daryl's Dream
The conclusion of the dream also holds significance for Daryl, as it mirrors his past experiences with zombies. Despite surviving the undead through prayer, Laurent disregards Daryl's pleas and departs with the walkers. Symbolically, this aspect of Daryl's dream represents the losses he has endured due to the zombies. Throughout the years, battles with walkers have claimed the lives of numerous individuals who held importance to Daryl. One notable example is Sophie, Carol's daughter. When the child vanished, Daryl embarks on an extensive mission to save her, but ultimately fails.
Daryl has lost several close individuals, including Carl and Rosita, as well as other survivors, due to the zombie virus. This has caused Daryl to worry about the safety of his new friends, including Laurent, knowing the losses he has already endured. The show's hinting at Daryl's concerns further emphasizes his determination to fulfill his mission and protect Laurent in the final episode of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon season 1.
New episodes of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon air on Sundays on AMC.