When they were survivors

TWD 5x10: \"Them\"

In the final stretch of the fifth season, the Atlanta group (with notable additions and losses) faces a precarious period for survival: without supplies or transportation, and in a terrible mental state as a result of what in psychology is known as the shockwave of grief. We have the death of Bob at St. Sarah's Church, Beth at Grady Memorial Hospital, and Tyrese in Virginia. All of this in just a few days. It all happened in a very short interval and shortly after the collective trauma of their stop at Terminus (those damned cannibals!) and its tragic outcome, complete with a red machete. Also worth mentioning is the collective frustration that gripped the group at not being able to find permanent refuge in Virginia, in the place suggested by Noah.

This accumulation of losses, disillusionment, and hardship ultimately defines a somber atmosphere that precedes the group's arrival in Alexandria.

Some members of the group cope with their losses in a very egocentric and self-flagellating way.

There are parallel and similar griefs within the group:

Maggie and Sasha:

Both lost a sibling.

Maggie also lost her father, with barely any time to process that pain. Sasha lost her boyfriend, Bob.

Both are immersed in an emotional state ranging from depression to nihilism.

Ultimately, they face the acceptance of their loss together. Maggie has Glenn, but Sasha feels alone in the world, and her anguish seems to continue tormenting her long after the group settles in Alexandria.

Abraham: He takes refuge in alcoholism. He keeps alive the memory of his lost family, as well as the disillusionment he felt because of Eugene's lie (damn Eugene!). He cedes his prominence to Rick and continues his symbiotic and utilitarian relationship with Rosita Espinosa.

We see Daryl sad and crying. While it's true she cried when her brother Merle was killed by the Governor, this time her tears and grief were for Beth, with whom she spent some very special days and whom she almost saved (that crazy policewoman at the hospital!).

In that episode, everyone is sad, some more than others. We're glad they found well-deserved rest, comfort, and resources in Alexandria, but I think that atmosphere of pure survival, that precariousness, was a success in terms of narrative development. Good heavens, they even ate dog meat!