Introduction
Citizen Kane is considered one of the greatest films ever made, thanks to its innovative visual techniques, storytelling, and cinematography. The movie tells the story of Charles Foster Kane, a wealthy business magnate who dies alone in his enormous mansion, leaving behind a mystery: the meaning of his last word, “Rosebud.” In this article, we will explore the mystery behind Rosebud and its significance as a symbol in the film.
Analyzing the Symbolism of Rosebud
Rosebud is a sled from Kane’s childhood that embodies a sense of innocence, freedom, and unbridled joy. The sled represents a simpler, happier time in Kane’s life, a time before he became the powerful and jaded figure who died alone at the beginning of the movie. The sled is symbolic of the innocence and purity that Kane had lost, and his lifelong search for that lost state of simplicity.
Throughout the movie, the sled appears as a motif, with Kane surrounded by objects that resemble a sled in form and function. For example, there is the fireplace grate that looks like a sled, or the desk that slides open like a sled. These instances were Kane’s subconscious attempts to reconnect with his lost childhood, which he never managed to do in his lifetime.
Discovering the Truth Behind Rosebud
The mystery of Rosebud has intrigued viewers since the film’s initial release in 1941. Over the years, various theories have emerged about the meaning of the word. Some have suggested that Rosebud represents Kane’s monetary wealth, his political power, or his lost innocence.
However, the most compelling theory is that Rosebud was a last-minute addition to the script by the film’s writer and director, Orson Welles. The story goes that a crew member told Welles that the meaning of a person’s last words are often mundane, and Welles was inspired to use this idea in the film. This theory suggests that Rosebud was simply a metaphor for the fleeting nature of happiness and the importance of cherishing the simple pleasures in life.
Unmasking the Man Behind the Mystery
The use of Rosebud in Citizen Kane reveals a great deal about the character of Charles Foster Kane. Kane was a man who had everything but was never satisfied. At his core, Kane was a lonely figure, desperate for connection and meaning in his life. Rosebud represented his failed attempts to recapture the happiness and innocence of his youth, which ultimately left him feeling disillusioned and alone.
The revelation of Rosebud’s true meaning at the end of the film shows a vulnerable and regretful side to Kane, which provides a poignant conclusion to the movie. It elevates Kane from a larger-than-life figure to a relatable and tragic character.
The Legacy of Rosebud
Citizen Kane’s use of Rosebud and its symbolism has had a lasting impact on the cinematic world. The film’s use of symbolism inspired many filmmakers to use similar techniques to convey meaning in their films. For example, the use of the white rose in American Beauty or the red balloon in The Red Balloon.
Rosebud also highlights the importance of visual storytelling in film, demonstrating how a seemingly insignificant object can be imbued with meaning and significance. Citizen Kane paved the way for modern cinematic techniques, and Rosebud remains a lasting symbol of its lasting influence.
A Personal Take on Rosebud
For me, the use of Rosebud in Citizen Kane has always been a genuinely moving and profound example of visual storytelling. The symbol represents a universal longing for a lost sense of innocence, reminding us all that sometimes the simplest things in life have the most profound significance. The sled captured the heart of Kane’s character, and it remains a poignant reminder to audiences of the importance of never losing sight of what truly matters.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rosebud is a symbol that has won the hearts of generations of moviegoers who have watched Citizen Kane. It represents a profound longing for a lost sense of innocence, a poignant reminder that life is not just about material possessions or power; it is also about the simple joys of life. Understanding the significance of Rosebud adds a new level of appreciation to Citizen Kane and its legacy. It is a call to action to watch the film again with fresh eyes and to appreciate the power of its storytelling and symbolism.