What year is “Severance” supposed to be set in?
In the captivating and thought-provoking series “Severance,” viewers are often left pondering the timeline in which the story unfolds. The show, which first premiered on Apple TV+ in 2022, delves into the lives of employees at a company called Lumon Industries, where they undergo a unique surgical procedure to separate their minds from their bodies. The question of what year “Severance” is supposed to be set in is a crucial aspect of the narrative, as it shapes the viewers’ understanding of the technological advancements and societal norms depicted in the series. Let’s explore this intriguing topic further.
Setting the Scene: The Show’s Release Year
At first glance, it may seem that “Severance” is set in the near future, given the advanced technology and futuristic elements present in the series. The release year of the show itself, 2022, could suggest that it is set in a similar timeframe. However, the creators of “Severance” have been careful not to explicitly state the exact year in which the story takes place. This ambiguity allows the show to explore themes of corporate control, artificial intelligence, and human nature without being constrained by a specific historical context.
Technological Advancements and the Timeline
Despite the lack of a specific year, “Severance” does provide hints about the technological advancements that have occurred. The surgical procedure that allows employees to separate their minds from their bodies is a clear indication of significant medical progress. This procedure is not only feasible but also widely accepted within the show’s world. Additionally, the presence of advanced AI and robotics suggests that the series is set in a future where technology has reached new heights.
However, the timeline of these advancements is not entirely clear. While the technology is advanced, it is not yet at a point where it has completely transformed society. This suggests that “Severance” may be set a few decades into the future, allowing for a balance between the present and a more technologically advanced world.
Societal Norms and the Impact of Technology
The setting of “Severance” also plays a crucial role in shaping the societal norms depicted in the series. The show explores themes of corporate control, worker exploitation, and the erosion of personal identity. These themes are heightened by the advanced technology and societal changes that have occurred in the show’s timeline.
The fact that the surgical procedure is widely accepted and considered a normal part of life suggests that society has adapted to the idea of separating minds from bodies. This adaptation reflects a society that has become increasingly desensitized to technological advancements, leading to a world where the line between human and machine becomes increasingly blurred.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while “Severance” does not explicitly state the year in which the story is set, the show’s release year, technological advancements, and societal norms provide clues that suggest it is set a few decades into the future. This timeline allows the series to explore complex themes and present a world that is both familiar and unsettling. As viewers continue to unravel the mysteries of “Severance,” the question of what year the show is set in remains a topic of intrigue and speculation.
