Mike White’s Masterplan for The White Lotus (A Theory)
Once I latch onto a theory, I can't let go. So let me explain.
HBO's The White Lotus has become the most talked about scripted show on television right now with its incisive satire and layered storytelling, sparking a myriad of theories about its deeper meanings and societal critiques. Set against the opulent backdrop of luxury resorts (at the Four Seasons), the series delves into themes of privilege, power dynamics, and cultural appropriation, particularly through the lens of wealthy Western tourists interacting with local cultures.
Season three, set in Thailand, intensifies these explorations by weaving Buddhist philosophy into its narrative, prompting viewers to question the authenticity of spiritual enlightenment sought in exotic locales (Business Insider). As noted by Business Insider, the show portrays Western tourists appropriating Eastern spirituality, highlighting their inner suffering tied to wealth and privilege . This intricate tapestry of themes has led to diverse interpretations, with some critics arguing that despite efforts to avoid stereotypes, the series still falls into the trap of exoticizing its setting (The Guardian) . Such discussions underscore the show's ability to mirror and critique real-world issues, making "The White Lotus" a fertile ground for analysis and debate.
Many watchers online, including myself, have theories about the motives and storytelling within the show + where it is headed. But before predicting it’s future, let’s discuss it’s past. Starting with the creator, Mike White.
Who is Mike White?
Mike White is the creator and director of “The White Lotus”. His journey began in the late 1990s, writing for acclaimed television series such as "Freaks and Geeks" and "Dawson's Creek." White's versatility is evident in his diverse body of work, which includes penning the screenplay for the 2003 film "School of Rock" and creating the HBO series "Enlightened." Despite these accomplishments, it was "The White Lotus" that propelled him into the spotlight, earning him Emmy Awards for both writing and directing.
The inception of "The White Lotus" is rooted in the unique challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, HBO approached White with a request for a series that could be produced within the constraints of a quarantine bubble (Wiki). Recognizing an opportunity, White proposed setting the show in a luxury hotel, drawing inspiration from his own experiences in Hawaii. He aimed to delve into the complexities of class dynamics, the ethical implications of tourism, and the nuanced relationships between guests and staff. This concept resonated with HBO, leading to the swift development and production of the series.
White’s participation in reality shows like "Survivor" provided him with unique insights into human behavior under pressure, and how one can yield tons of power in one moment and lose it the next. Additionally, his upbringing in an evangelical household instilled in him a keen awareness of societal hypocrisies, a theme that permeates the show's exploration of privilege and morality (Katie Couric).
My Theory: The 7 Deadly Sins
The seven deadly sins—pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, and sloth—are a classification of vices that originated in early Christian teachings as a way to educate followers about immoral behavior. Each sin represents a fundamental moral failing and is traditionally viewed as the root from which other sins emerge. Over time, these vices have become ingrained in Western cultural and religious discourse, not just as spiritual failings, but also as psychological archetypes—reflecting the darker impulses of human nature.
The concept of the seven deadly sins traces back to the fourth-century Christian monk Evagrius Ponticus, who identified eight evil thoughts: gluttony, lust, avarice, anger, sloth, sadness, vainglory, and pride. These were later refined by Pope Gregory I in the sixth century into the seven deadly sins recognized today (History.com).
Could Mike White be using the 7 deadly sins as a jumping board for each season of his hit show? I think so. And here’s why…
In the paid portion of this Friday Trend Report (FTR), I will be discussing:
Which deadly sin each season of The White Lotus has explored at its core so far.
What this could mean for the future of the franchise
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And thank you for being a coconut and making it this far, either way. I appreciate you. 🥥