WARNING! SPOILERS: This post contains spoilers and speculation for the Doctor Who series nine episode The Zygon Inversion. Theres always a danger that a story spread out over two weeks will ultimately fail. The excitement of the first part gives way to dull mechanics in the second as writers struggle to tie up all the loose ends. Not this time. The Zygon Inversion was a perfect counterpoint to its mate The Zygon Invasion. While the initial episode of this riveting two-parter was all action and setup, the sequel was keen introspection with trappings of wounded pride and hidden pain. Invasion was the extroverts tale while Inversion turned inward to examine the complex issues of people forced to live on the fringe of society. It reminded us how quickly the oppressed become the oppressors. Peter Harness skewered contemporary politics but not without a thoughtful willingness to acknowledge that all sides had a right to their discontent but needed better methods to address the problem. There may never be a better illustration of Craig Fergusons insistence that Doctor Who is about the triumph of intellect and romance over brute force and cynicism. Bonnie is a frightened and angry child trapped within her limited experience and the Doctor is the teacher who sets her mind free. The Zygon Inversion is a powerful and agonizing plea for tolerance in a world that too often reveres the opposite.
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.
