Forrest Gump’s Last Gift to Jenny
Forrest Gump is undoubtedly one of the most iconic cinematic characters of all time. The beloved movie, directed by Robert Zemeckis, was released in 1994 and continues to hold a special place in the hearts of audiences worldwide. One of the most heartbreaking moments in the film is the death of Jenny, Forrest’s lifelong friend and love interest. In the final scenes of the movie, we see Forrest visit Jenny’s grave and lay something at her feet. But what did he leave at her grave? Let’s explore this final act of love and friendship.
Understanding the Significance of Jenny’s Character
Firstly, it’s important to understand the significance of Jenny’s character in the film. She is introduced to us as a troubled young girl who comes from a broken home. Abused by her father, she seeks solace with Forrest who becomes her lifelong friend and protector. As they navigate the ups and downs of life, Jenny’s path takes a dark turn, eventually leading her to drug addiction and a life of instability. Despite this, Forrest never gives up on her and is there for her until the end.
The Final Act of Love
When Jenny finally succumbs to an unnamed illness, Forrest is devastated. He visits her grave, hand in hand with their son, and shares the story of their life together. In this moment, Forrest’s final act of love is revealed. We see him lay a single white flower on the grave, symbolizing purity and innocence. It’s a simple but powerful gesture that indicates the depth of his feelings for Jenny and the purity of their love.
The Meaning Behind the Daisy
However, upon closer inspection, there is more to this gesture than meets the eye. The flower that Forrest leaves at Jenny’s grave is a daisy. Daisies are known for their association with purity and innocence, as well as their ability to represent a new beginning. They are also a common symbol of hope, something that Forrest has throughout his life, no matter what obstacles he faced. It’s clear that Forrest chose this particular flower for a reason, as it perfectly encapsulates his relationship with Jenny and the hope he had for a better life for them both.
Furthermore, the daisy also has ties to the hippie movement of the 1960s, a period of time that the film frequently references. Jenny is shown to be heavily involved in this movement, attending rallies and protests against the Vietnam War. The daisy was famously used as a symbol of peace during this time, making it all the more meaningful that Forrest chose this flower to represent his love for her.
The Power of Love
The final scene of Forrest Gump is a poignant and emotional one, showcasing the true depth of Forrest’s love for Jenny. By leaving a daisy at her grave, he is not only acknowledging their shared history but also expressing his hope for a new beginning. It’s a beautiful moment that resonates with audiences long after the film has ended.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Forrest Gump’s last gift to Jenny, a single white daisy, is a symbol of purity, innocence, hope, and new beginnings. It perfectly encapsulates the depth of their relationship and the hope that Forrest had for a better life for them both. While it’s a simple gesture, it speaks volumes about the love that Forrest had for Jenny and the impact that she had on his life. The final scene of the film is a testament to the power of love and the importance of cherishing the relationships that we hold dear.