IT And Stranger Things: A Look At Stephen King's Perspective

Luna Greco

5 min read

Post on May 10, 2025

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The Shared Themes of Childhood Trauma and Innocence Lost

Both IT and Stranger Things explore the terrifying intersection of childhood, trauma, and the supernatural. The narratives revolve around groups of children battling monstrous forces while simultaneously grappling with the complexities of growing up, facing bullies, navigating friendships, and confronting personal vulnerabilities. This potent mix of fear and coming-of-age creates a unique and compelling atmosphere.

• IT: The Losers Club, a group of outcast children in Derry, Maine, confront their deepest fears, embodied by the terrifying Pennywise the Dancing Clown, while also battling the individual traumas of their pasts – bullying, neglect, and abuse. Their shared experiences forge an unbreakable bond, a necessity in their fight against the ancient evil.
• Stranger Things: The group of friends in Hawkins, Indiana, faces the horrors of the Upside Down, a nightmarish parallel dimension. Simultaneously, each character grapples with their own personal demons: Eleven’s traumatic past in the Hawkins lab, Will’s abduction and subsequent psychological trauma, Mike’s unwavering loyalty and emotional vulnerability, and the individual struggles of Dustin, Lucas, and Max.
• Shared Theme of Bullying and Isolation: Both narratives powerfully depict the effects of bullying and social isolation, highlighting how these experiences can exacerbate feelings of vulnerability and fear. This creates a poignant connection with the audience, reminding us of the shared anxieties of childhood. The monsters in both worlds prey on these vulnerabilities, making the threat even more profound.

The Power of Small-Town Settings and 80s Nostalgia

The idyllic small-town settings of Derry, Maine (IT) and Hawkins, Indiana (Stranger Things) are integral to both narratives. The seemingly quaint Americana facades belie a sinister undercurrent, emphasizing the sense of isolation and mystery that pervades these communities. This carefully constructed atmosphere heightens the tension and amplifies the impact of the supernatural events.

• 80s Aesthetics: Both productions utilize the visual language and cultural touchstones of the 1980s to establish a specific atmosphere, leveraging nostalgia to create a sense of familiarity and comfort, juxtaposed against the encroaching horror. This nostalgic element draws the audience in, making the contrast between the idyllic setting and the terrifying events even more impactful.
• Isolation as a Catalyst: The isolation inherent in small towns plays a crucial role in both narratives. The sense of community, while present, is often overshadowed by the secrets and unspoken horrors that lie beneath the surface, creating a breeding ground for fear and mystery. The protagonists are often isolated in their experiences, further heightening their sense of vulnerability.
• Contrast Between the Ordinary and Extraordinary: Both IT and Stranger Things masterfully contrast the mundane aspects of daily life – school, friendships, family – with the extraordinary and terrifying events that unfold. This juxtaposition enhances the shock and impact of the supernatural elements, making them all the more unsettling.

The Nature of the Monsters and Supernatural Elements

Pennywise the Dancing Clown from IT and the Upside Down from Stranger Things represent the pinnacle of primal fear, tapping into deeply ingrained anxieties and the power of the imagination. Both entities are masterful manipulators, preying on the vulnerabilities of their victims.

• Shapeshifting and Psychological Manipulation: Both Pennywise and the creatures of the Upside Down utilize shapeshifting abilities, adapting their forms to exploit the specific fears of their prey. This emphasizes the psychological horror, surpassing mere physical threats. Both employ psychological manipulation, preying on the deepest insecurities and anxieties of the protagonists.
• Childhood Fears Materialized: Both narratives draw upon classic childhood fears, giving them a tangible, terrifying form. The monsters don’t simply exist; they are expressions of deeply ingrained anxieties, making them far more potent and terrifying. This allows the stories to resonate on a visceral level.
• Archetypal Evil: Pennywise and the Upside Down both serve as archetypal representations of evil, exploring the timeless themes of darkness, fear, and the unknown. They are not simply monsters; they are powerful symbols of societal ills and the darker aspects of human nature.

Specific Examples of King's Influence

The Duffer Brothers have openly acknowledged their admiration for Stephen King, and this admiration translates into various aspects of Stranger Things. The show borrows not only from IT, but also from King's broader oeuvre, drawing inspiration from the thematic concerns and narrative structures found in works such as Stand By Me, Firestarter, and The Body. Specific plot points, character arcs, and the overall atmosphere all reflect King’s profound influence. For instance, the found-family dynamic strongly resembles the bonds in IT and echoes many of King’s themes of friendship and loyalty in the face of overwhelming odds.

Conclusion

The striking similarities between IT and Stranger Things are undeniable. Both productions effectively utilize the power of childhood trauma, the allure of small-town settings, and the potent imagery of monsters to create narratives that are both terrifying and profoundly moving. Stephen King's legacy is woven into the fabric of Stranger Things, evident in its thematic concerns, atmosphere, and overall narrative structure. The Duffer Brothers have masterfully channeled the essence of King's work, creating a show that resonates with audiences on a deeply emotional and visceral level.

What are your thoughts on Stephen King's influence on Stranger Things? Discuss your favorite parallels between IT and Stranger Things! Let's continue the conversation about the enduring impact of Stephen King’s legacy on modern horror, particularly in shows like Stranger Things!