The Meaning Behind Buffalo Bill's 'It' in The Silence of the Lambs
The haunting line, 'It puts the lotion on its skin or else it gets the hose again,' has become one of the most chilling moments in the film The Silence of the Lambs. This line, spoken by the infamous serial killer known as Buffalo Bill, is fraught with chilling symbolism and psychological complexity.
Understanding Buffalo Bill's Motivation
Buffalo Bill, the psychopathic serial killer in The Silence of the Lambs, has a deranged obsession with creating a suit made from the skin of his victims. His latest victim, Catherine Martin, is a young woman held captive in his basement well. The line in question, which Catherine must repeatedly apply lotion to her skin, is a critical part of Buffalo Bill's twisted plan.
This line is more than just a sinister demand; it reflects the meticulous and sadistic nature of Buffalo Bill's muse and obsession. By instructing Catherine to apply lotion, he is ensuring her skin remains supple and ideal for his macabre purposes.
The Psychological Torment and Cruelty
The context in which the phrase is spoken is deeply unsettling. Buffalo Bill, known as Jemmy Gumb in real life, is a character defined by his horrifying actions. In the film, his actions escalate, and he targets overweight women, killing them and using their skin to create bizarre and gruesome suits.
The line 'It puts the lotion on its skin or else it gets the hose again' embodies the sheer brutality and sadism of his character. It showcases the level of psychological torment and cruelty that Buffalo Bill inflicts on his victims, turning the act of self-care into a twisted form of submission and control.
The Film's Intricate Psychological Thriller
The Silence of the Lambs is a psychological thriller that delves deep into the minds of both its protagonist, FBI agent Clarice Starling, and antagonist, Dr. Hannibal Lecter. The film's intensity and chilling scenes contribute significantly to its horror and suspense.
Beyond the physical horror, the film explores the complex psychological dynamics between its characters. Buffalo Bill's actions, while brutal and inhumane, are also driven by a twisted sense of perfection and aestheticism, as he aims to use his victims' skin in his creations.
Symbolism and Motifs
The phrase 'It puts the lotion on its skin' is not just a directive; it is a warning. It serves as a metaphor for the control and abuse of power that Buffalo Bill exercises over his victims. The 'hose' reference symbolizes the brutal and dehumanizing violence that awaits those who do not comply.
Symbolically, the line reflects the psychological torment and the terrifying reality of life under Buffalo Bill's manipulation. It encapsulates the horror of his actions and the absolute power he wields over his captives.
Conclusion
Buffalo Bill's chilling refrain, 'It puts the lotion on its skin or else it gets the hose again,' is a pivotal moment in The Silence of the Lambs. It not only highlights the brutality of his actions but also delves into the psychological depths of a deeply twisted mind. This line has become iconic, serving as a reminder of the horror and cruelty that can exist in the human psyche.