Doctor Who Review: Deep Breath - 10 Ways To Breathe New Life Into An Old Soul
6. A Matter Of Life And Death
Sacrifice is an ongoing theme in Steven Moffats Doctor Who and Deep Breath is no exception. The battle between the Doctor and the cyborg is not one of fists but of ideas stagnation vs. change. The Doctor does not seek to end the cyborgs existence in the name of vengeance but out of mercy. The cyborg died long ago he simply did not recognize it. Moffat leaves it open as to whether the cyborg sacrifices himself or the Doctor takes action but in the long run it doesnt matter. Change comes whether we like or not. Isnt it better to embrace the shift rather than cling to outmoded ways of being? Suicide happens alarmingly often in Doctor Who but perhaps that is due to the fact that in contrast the Doctor cannot die. Even after standing beside his own prospective grave the Doctors life did not end. He is too much a part of the fabric of the universe he resides in. This is, in its way, a horrific position to be in. He is set apart from every other living thing, with no hope of rest, no end to responsibility. A burden like that could turn one into a monster which is why he needs the steadying influence of his friends and companions to give him hope. Otherwise he might become blind to the fact that as different as he may be, he is still a part of the universe as a whole and not separate from or above it.
Mary Ogle is the author and illustrator of “Orangeroof Zoo” a whimsical tale of magical realism told through the pages of a coloring book for adults. Working as a professional artist in the digital medium, Mary’s commissions have included everything from fine art to fan art, book cover design, illustration and book layout. Find more of Mary’s work at www.maryogle.com. Mary currently finds inspiration in the Ojai Valley, residing in a snug little cottage with a recalcitrant cat.
