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Discussion: My theory on the Observer

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DarkMotor	20. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 17 2008, 12:37 AM EST I can't help but to engage in alternate perspectives regarding this wonderful show. Just as Massive Dynamic is another way of describing a "Pattern" everyone conscious of a pattern becomes part of it including ourselves. Are we not also "Obvservers" of a sort, as we tune in each week? I can't help but to see some parallels between ourselves and The Observer. Just as he craves bold flavors on his food, so too do we crave stimulation in the form of intellectual entertainment we get watching the show. The break in the schedule avails us the opportunity to ponder these things further than when we are actively engaged in following along. One thing I find humorous is the Observer archetypal characters some have mentioned previously. Anyone else find it funny that the the bald characters all seem to be in nominal roles for the most part, detached from engaging in the REAL action because they haven't got the hair? Perhaps I just have an over-active imagination (I really do!), but that's one of the biggest reasons this show is one I don't mind Observing each week, there's plenty of food for thought and fodder for discussion... and we're all waist deep in it too! We're inexorably compelled by patterns and the "Observing" thereof. "Oh waiter, can I get some more ketchup... no, better make that hot sauce. Too much is just right." Post reply 1 out of 1 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
flikflik	21. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 17 2008, 1:31 AM EST Well written, DarkMotor... But if you really and truly do have an over-active imagination, why not posit some real theories about The Observer or events in the show instead of just summarizing generalities? It is quite ironic that you write about everyone being "an observer" as they are somehow detached from events, and yet here you are being Observer-like with your commentary. I say go full-face into that ketchup, into that vat of jalapeno juice. Let's hear it! hugs, flikflik Post reply 2 out of 3 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
arjay999	22. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 17 2008, 1:35 AM EST "arjay999's theory that the observer is a "quantum mechanic" Using quantum physics to predict and observe instances of fringe science is my favorite "observer concept". What this says to me is that there is an event coming in the future of the story that involves all elements that have been shown up to this point. This event will be global in scope and reach to affect everyone on the planet. That is the event that the observer is attempting to alter merely by observing all the events that systematically led to the one (potentially catastrophic?) event. Anyone with an understanding of quantum mechanics to the degree that the observer would have to have to predict events to be observed would certianly understand the ramifications of observing such events and must be in fact attempting to use the observations to illicit change in the eventual outcome. Because Dunham, and the team have become aware of the presence of the observer, that in and of itself is the beginning of the change. Their actions in the future will be different because they now know that they are being observed. ? Hmmm. I love this show. " And, what if one were to apply the Fibonocci equations to observer influence: Would the resulting cascade of changes continue to expand exponentially (as in a Fibonacci spiral pattern)? Very small, minute and undecernable changes at first, but eventually broadening to unknown possibilities? Post reply 5 out of 5 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
27NILLOC	23. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 17 2008, 9:21 AM EST "And, what if one were to apply the Fibonocci equations to observer influence: Would the resulting cascade of changes continue to expand exponentially eventually broadening to unknown possibilities? " Absolutely! I would venture that the more the observer observes, and subsequently alters the events of the pattern, the less he may know about what is going to happen. As we saw again last night, he has a pretty good grasp of whats next right now (as he accurately predicted everything Peter was about to say as or before he was saying it) It's possible in the future his influence on the pattern may render him less able to predict it. I thought is was quite beautiful that as he spoke to Peter in the woods. Initially he was repeating Peters words in rapid succession, then, he was slightly ahead of him, and eventually he asked questions that Peter was thinking, but had not uttered yet. Which subsequently caused Peter to not ask the question at all. At that point the observer realized his mistake, he had become involved and altered the events. Realizing he had gone too far, he knocked Peter out and fled. Post reply 6 out of 6 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
washby	24. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 17 2008, 11:44 AM EST "And, what if one were to apply the Fibonocci equations to observer influence: Would the resulting cascade of changes continue to expand exponentially (as in a Fibonacci spiral pattern)? Very small, minute and undecernable changes at first, but eventually broadening to unknown possibilities? " I like the idea of the pattern starting out small and growing like the Fibonacci pattern. The Fibonacci sequence also is a pattern for what is called the Golden Ratio. The idea being that the ratio between two things becomes very appealing to the eyes or ears. Almost a model of perfection. Could this be related to what is trying to be done? Also as far as the observer watching to influence the pattern I agree. The fact that he could watch the underground capsule but not touch it would make sense. However who would he have been on the phone with and why would he speak English but write in a differing language? As far as his encounter with Peter I think that Walter alludes to it later by saying that there are different ways to communicate. It is why Walter knew that the observer would come back and need his help. Walter can communicate telepathically and desires Peter to do so as well. However Peter can partly do so (hence why he can understand Walter and no one else can). When the observer met Peter he was "reading" his mind. Therefore as it takes a while to learn a new system it took a second for the observer to understand Peter's thoughts but by the end could read them faster than Peter could say them. Just my thoughts.... Post reply 3 out of 4 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
DarkMotor	25. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 17 2008, 9:31 PM EST "Well written, DarkMotor... But if you really and truly do have an over-active imagination, why not posit some real theories about The Observer or events in the show instead of just summarizing generalities? It is quite ironic that you write about everyone being "an observer" as they are somehow detached from events, and yet here you are being Observer-like with your commentary. I say go full-face into that ketchup, into that vat of jalapeno juice. Let's hear it! hugs, flikflik " You're awesome!! I have to hold back sometimes because I get ahead of the curve too much, kinda like the Observer does. It's a question of time and putting thoughts in an order that is intelligible. In this instance, I was merely compelled to point out the perspective of the writers which we often overlook in our haste to solve the puzzle. Too often we get in a rush to explain everything away to bring a sense of order to things as our own sense of security and balance. The truth is that there is no balance but more of an observed state of equilibrium. There are as many answers as there are perspectives or maybe as there are observers. Q: Which is greater, the characters created by the writers imagination or the imagination of the writers who created them? A: Niether, it is the imagination which the characters inspire. The perspective I was engaging in was the Observer as a cinematic metaphor or archetype which is one I think we miss out on in our haste to cut to the chase and get to the desert which is to solve the puzzle too quickly without enjoying the rest of these flavors. They're all wonderful! But since we're really hungry right now, I'll sit down and see if I can't contribute something I've pondered that maybe others haven't mentioned already, I love challenges just as much as ketchup so I'll see if whip something up for you. You really are awesome!! Shows like this really bring out the best people. I love it!! Post reply 0 out of 1 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
flikflik	26. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 17 2008, 10:07 PM EST Sounds great... looking forward to your ideas, thoughts & observations, especially once the new episodes start airing in January. BTW, did you know that the actor playing The Observer also played John Wilkes Booth in the Sondheim musical "Assassins"? Perhaps there will be some Lincoln tie-in in future plot lines (would be fun anyway)... l8r, flikflik Post reply Do you find this valuable?
DarkMotor	27. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 18 2008, 2:15 AM EST I don't see any evidence of there being multiple observers other than the fast that this guy gets around. I attribute his dulled physical senses as evidence, perhaps to side effects of some medical procedure performed on him to heighten his mental faculties or is intented to shield him from any types of physical distractions other that what is required of him. He obviously is an agent of some importance who is constantly reporting what he observes back to someone. He writes in a code which cannot be deciphered just as the signal from the cylinder cannot be deciphered except by anyone who may be inside the loop regarding the pattern. The time travel-teleportation thing my be an explanation for why he doesn't seem to age, maybe he just hops around? It could also be as a result of his "condition". My theory is that all of these people were somehow involved to a "massive" industrial/government project that splintered into several rival groups over use the powerful technologies involved and what it will be used for. I believe the observer works for one of these factions. Perhaps a benevolent one attempting to keep it out of the hands of the government and/or other less benevolent concerns? Perhaps William Bell felt responsible and went underground in an attempt to undue some of the damage he feels responsinle for? Intelligent people tend to harbor peculiarities which may also help explain some of the Observers behaviors, not to mention Walters. Anyone else notice the bright flashes of light which appear anytime events of the pattern are in close proximity. And whats up with the soundtrack? The background noises always seem to increase dramatically anytime multiple interested parties are afoot. It's very noticeable to me anyways. More cinematic devices or subtile clues? I'm sure the producers include some red herrings just to keep us guessing. Or maybe Hot Peppers? Post reply Do you find this valuable?
DarkMotor	28. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 18 2008, 9:23 AM EST I don't want to talk too much and step on other people because it becomes necessary to step back and observe what others have to say in order to interact more fully. It's like a feedback loop, if you hog up all the gravy, you miss out on the steak and the baked potato and all the other things but perhaps the food analogies allow me to make a point and to observe what others have to say. One thing I see being passed around the table is that foundation that facilitates all the other side dishes, like the meat and potatoes of the whole meal. We all have a healthy appetite for life which is necessary for intelligence to flower and allow us to seek out pieces of puzzles in our efforts to solve them. This is quite telling, I think. Walter is one hungry old man! He always craves stimulation to keep himself grounded or maybe well rounded? Like with the cow and the piano music and the root beer float. This is a big part of my theory on the observer. Underneath it all, he would appear to be quite human because he exhibits some of these very same qualities. He is insatiably curious, just like Walter. He becomes distracted from his job to enjoy a roast beef sandwich and he inquires about Walters root beer float. At one point he refers to Walter as a "coneseur" (hope I spelled it right) or "consumer". These are human qualities, especially those demonstrated by intellectual humans such as Walter. The Observer is intellectual, curious like Walter. He seems fond of Walter just as we all are. Is this making sense? That cylinder was described by Walter as a beacon (like a jump drive or transmitter of intel?). Walter is able to "sense" things from it without explanation. Observer tells Walter he will have answers soon, then appears to focus on Walter for a moment. Walter looks up as if he had just "received" those answers in a form that's more stimulating than speaking. Other characters do it too! Post reply 0 out of 1 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
flikflik	29. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 18 2008, 1:10 PM EST "I attribute his dulled physical senses as evidence, perhaps to side effects of some medical procedure performed on him to heighten his mental faculties or is intended to shield him from any types of physical distractions other that what is required of him. He obviously is an agent of some importance who is constantly reporting what he observes back to someone. My theory is that all of these people were somehow involved to a "massive" industrial/government project that splintered into several rival groups over use the powerful technologies involved and what it will be used for. Anyone else notice the bright flashes of light which appear anytime events of the pattern are in close proximity. And whats up with the soundtrack? The background noises always seem to increase dramatically anytime multiple interested parties are afoot. It's very noticeable to me anyways. More cinematic devices or subtile clues? I'm sure the producers include some red herrings just to keep us guessing. Or maybe Hot Peppers?" Here are my thoughts on The Observer/Massive Dynamic/Competing Factions: I think the organized groups such as Massive Dynamic, CIA, NSA, Splinter Factions, et al, all have some nugget of information that came from extra-terrestrial intelligence, sort of like an Alien End of Days Book, if you will. They are all scrambling to chase The Pattern to try to put all the puzzle pieces together that will afford them a comprehensive understanding of What Is Coming. Because if they can predict or figure that out, then they have the upper hand - and perhaps control - over what is the Final Endgame. That Endgame being some type of cataclysmic Battle for Earth or a battle for earth's population. That's why the science behind all of the events in the pattern is so important; it's like their stocking up their cookbook of necessary intelligence, all the ingredients they will need when The Time comes. They don't work together for this information simply due to greedy competition, plus, should one of The Factions win The Battle, then they ultimately control all of Earth. Now, as for The Observer, I believe he is one of the Alien Race who is watching our movements, our progression towards The End. He is merely an alien inhabiting a Human Suit - that's why he never ages, doesn't have hair, and cannot truly taste or enjoy food. He is basically wearing some type of advanced silicone costume. Now, the real question is why does he happen to be present for all occurrences of The Pattern? As I see it, there are TWO possibilities. Post reply 0 out of 2 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
flikflik	30. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 18 2008, 1:11 PM EST 1. He is simply observing, being a sentinel for the alien race, if you will. Once we Humans have enough information, he will alert his Elders that we have advanced to a dangerous state and the Battle for Earth will begin. OR 2. He's the Alien Who Cares, and actually prompts the occurrences into happening. In forcing the events, he allowed humans to discover The Pattern, and ultimately uncover the science needed to help them to their best defenses in the Battle for Earth. He knows the Aliens are coming for battle no mater what, but in his presumably millennia of observing the Human Race, he has come to care for us, and does not want to see us destroyed. I like to think that the reason #2 on the Observer helps to explain why he saved Walter & Peter from an icy death years ago. Not only does he care, he sees in Walter (and potentially Peter) something so promising, something so necessary to the furthering of human scientific defense, that they could not just perish. Post reply 0 out of 2 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
27NILLOC	31. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 18 2008, 1:50 PM EST Oh, gosh. I sincerely hope that the observer is NOT an alien, and that this fantastic show about fringe science doesn't turn into an alien Sci-Fi story. We've been there done that. I think that the science and the conspiracy elements plus the government vs. private corporation covert operations and espionage and semi (seemingly) supernatural parts of the show are good enough to sustain it without dragging ET into it. JJ, Alex, and Roberto, if you are listening, please don't make Fringe about aliens! (on my knees, interlaced fingers aloft) PLEASE. Post reply 4 out of 4 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
wilhelmreich	32. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 18 2008, 2:06 PM EST the observer has far superior technology similar to the guy who kidnapped peter. All the cases contain far superior technology compared to the FBI agents. I think the observer is linked to bell and that he has some kind of direct link to peter. Walter feels very calm around the observer, which leads me onto thinking (mentioned in another discussion) that bell and bishop are the same people. Have you see the door to walters lab? it has william bell's name scratched out with walters under it. Post reply 3 out of 3 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
DarkMotor	33. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 18 2008, 3:35 PM EST "the observer has far superior technology similar to the guy who kidnapped peter. All the cases contain far superior technology compared to the FBI agents. I think the observer is linked to bell and that he has some kind of direct link to peter. Walter feels very calm around the observer, which leads me onto thinking (mentioned in another discussion) that bell and bishop are the same people. Have you see the door to walters lab? it has william bell's name scratched out with walters under it." I like it, this plays into why Walter and some of his colleagues wind up in the institution, they were put there by forces who removed them from the powerful positions they once held to seize power for themselves. Maybe! I don't think any of these characters are quite what the seem. I don't think any of them are fully aware of themselves, just as many of us are not fully aware of parts of ourselves buried deep within our psyches. I often discover odd patterns in my own behavior which upon much reflection, relate back to something from my past. Once this conscious connection is made, you are fully able to overcome the pattern, like when you keep doing something that makes no sense, until you figure out why you really do it. Then it seems so silly, you just stop doing it. Self-Obvservation? Post reply Do you find this valuable?
DarkMotor	34. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 18 2008, 4:15 PM EST "2. He's the Alien Who Cares, and actually prompts the occurrences into happening. He knows the Aliens are coming for battle no mater what, but in his presumably millennia of observing the Human Race, he has come to care for us, and does not want to see us destroyed." With a show like this, it is easy to engage in constructive-processing, where our imagination fills in blanks that are not really there if we were really paying attention. This is why I'm careful in my observations and try to keep the imagination in check to get to the truth. The first time they claim to have discovered the Observer is 1987 which is 22 years ago, not what I'd call a millennium. A lot of things concerning the pattern as well as things which happen to Walter and Peter date back to this time, including Walters memory of someone working on the "sonic torpedo" device around the same time it was first discovered as well. Does it take 11 years to penetrate the earth transmit and receive sensitive data concerning the pattern, then disappear again only to emerge after another 11 years on the other side of the earth? Most things concerning the pattern seem to emanate from the Walter Bishop/William Bell/Massive Dynamic paradigm and none of them so far fetched as to point to alien technology, only things from the very Fringe of our human understanding, not far beyond it as you would expect alien technology to be. I think a lot of the quirks revealed in these characters may be better explained by DNA manipulation or some such genetic experimentation rather than alien tech. BUT, it's clear that Agent Durhams boss is deceptive, if they first discovered the observer in 1987, he was lying about the age of events involved in the pattern which obviously precede 9 months and even people involved such as Walter and the Observer. There may be an indirect link to something alien, I just haven't noticed anything compelling beyond human comprehension up to this point. I'm skeptical like Peter was until Walter taught us both that "hey, anythings possible." Imagination is a wonderful tool but I try to keep it in check with the facts revealed on the show. I'll keep observing though! Aliens? Hmm Post reply 0 out of 1 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
wilhelmreich	35. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 18 2008, 4:30 PM EST Id be very disappointed if the observer was an alien. Its surely a cheap way to link the pattern. I truly hope it originates from human development. The observer only helped walter and peter when they crashed into the lake. why? how come he didn't save Walter's wife. Post reply 2 out of 2 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
27NILLOC	36. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 18 2008, 5:13 PM EST There are alot of inconsistencies with regard to elapsed time and the backstory to their tracking the observer and his connection to the pattern. The observer rarely gets involved, maybe because when he does things change for the worse, "I cannot touch it myself" Maybe saving Walter and Peter from the icy water led to complications he wishes not to repeat. I don't have any clue, and I don't think anyone else will either with regard to Walters wife/ Peters Mother, if in fact she is the same person. They have hinted in that direction 2 or 3 times but have not been very forthcoming with any details that would give you any idea about her or her circumstances. That's certianly an answer for another episode. Post reply 3 out of 3 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
DarkMotor	37. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 18 2008, 5:13 PM EST "Id be very disappointed if the observer was an alien. Its surely a cheap way to link the pattern. I truly hope it originates from human development. The observer only helped walter and peter when they crashed into the lake. why? how come he didn't save Walter's wife. " I think the observer only gets involved if something critical to the pattern is in danger. Something interesting that Peter was able to sneak up on him in the forest and knock him to the ground. The observer appeared shocked as if this could happen to him. Is he merely telepathic or is he clairvoyant also, but Peter has some abilities that no one suspects (except for Walter)? Post reply 2 out of 2 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
DarkMotor	38. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 18 2008, 5:17 PM EST It could also be something simple like the observer only having two hands to save people. ut did they mention the Mom actually being in the car that night, because I imagined they had gotten divorced from not getting along or something. Guess I'll need to re-watch that episode to see. Post reply 0 out of 1 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?
arjay999	39. RE: My theory on the Observer Dec 18 2008, 8:53 PM EST "Id be very disappointed if the observer was an alien. Its surely a cheap way to link the pattern. I truly hope it originates from human development. The observer only helped walter and peter when they crashed into the lake. why? how come he didn't save Walter's wife. " Be at ease... JJ Abrams stated in a summer 2008 interview that aliens would not be a part of Fringe. Post reply 3 out of 3 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?

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Discussion: My theory on the Observer

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