Lennie James' portrayal of Morgan Jones in The Walking Dead franchise has been crucial to the narrative, initially as a member of Rick Grimes' group and eventually as a leader in his own right. However, there have always been aspects of Morgan's character that have remained enigmatic. Thankfully, Fear the Walking Dead season 8, episode 6, "All I See Is Red," finally sheds light on Morgan's perplexing and unexplained utterances. This much-needed clarification brings a deeper understanding of the character. Fear the Walking Dead's eighth and final season can currently be seen on AMC.
Introduced in the first season of The Walking Dead, Morgan Jones is initially depicted as Rick Grimes' neighbor and friend. Over time, Morgan's storyline delves into his deteriorating mental state following the loss of his son, Duane, who was killed by his infected wife. Despite the escalating conflict, Morgan steadfastly adheres to his pacifist beliefs. In Fear the Walking Dead, he assumes leadership of his own group, utilizing his strong moral compass to aid others. Notably, during The Walking Dead's third season, Morgan repeatedly utters two distinctive lines: "I see red. Everything is red. Everything I see is red" and "I have to clear."
Fear The Walking Dead Finally Explains Morgan's "All I See Is Red" Line
During episode 6 of Fear the Walking Dead season 8, Morgan experiences an intense rage that is visually represented by a red tint in his vision. This red-tinged perspective becomes particularly prominent when he has a flashback of killing a group of zombies, inadvertently attacking Madison with his axe, and scribbling frantic messages on a train car wall without his knowledge. Morgan describes this state as "seeing red" and acknowledges that all he can think about and do is kill.
Fear The Walking Dead Also Explains What Morgan's "Clear" Meant
Morgan's use of the word "clear" in the same scene is further elaborated upon. While expressing his anger, he confesses to Madison that his sole purpose is to kill repeatedly until he achieves clarity. He believes there is no distinction between killing walkers and killing people. This sentiment is echoed in the messages he writes on the wall, such as "GRACE TURNED. CLEAR. MO RAN. CLEAR. YOU CAN'T RUN. CLEAR. CAN'T FEEL THIS AGAIN." Collectively, these pieces suggest that Morgan's interpretation of "clear" is to rid himself of the painful memories and also eliminate his enemies through violence.
This dual interpretation, combined with the culmination of the "red" references, serves as a fitting conclusion to Morgan's character development. The episode in which Morgan makes his return to The Walking Dead in season 3 is titled "Clear," while his departure in Fear the Walking Dead season 8 is named "All I See Is Red." This narrative arc encompasses Morgan's struggle to reconcile the deaths of his loved ones and his own violent actions during the apocalypse. Both phrases encapsulate his inner conflicts, and now, they have finally been given a clear explanation.
Fear TWD Season 8 Improves Morgan's Walking Dead Season 3 Story
Morgan's role in "All I See Is Red" greatly enhances his character in The Walking Dead. In the third season of the original series, we witness Morgan teetering on the brink of mental collapse as he grapples with the loss of his wife and child. However, this final episode brings his journey to a satisfying conclusion as he faces his fears following Grace's death and acknowledges them. Previously shrouded in mystery, Morgan's enigmatic quotes are now openly revealed through his confession to Madison. Fear the Walking Dead effectively provides Morgan with the closure he deserves.
While it is unfortunate to bid farewell to a cherished member of The Walking Dead cast, Morgan's story receives a powerful conclusion. All lingering questions are answered, and he triumphs over his traumatic experiences. Furthermore, Morgan's message to Rick hints at potential connections and future developments within the franchise. In summary, the resolution of Morgan's "red" and "clear" lines marks a necessary and fulfilling end to his narrative.