Richie's Zen Garden Picture In The Bear Season 3
In The Bear season 3, episode 4, "Violet," Richie Jerimovich hangs a picture of a Zen garden in the back office. This decision comes after a lot of turmoil in Richie's life, specifically his explosive fight with Carmy in season 2. The fight spills over into season 3, causing tension and avoidance between the two. Carmy's words cut deep, revealing some of Richie's biggest insecurities. This conflict pushes Richie to look at his life choices and the feeling of loneliness that he fears he will never overcome.
Besides the ongoing conflict with Carmy, Richie is also dealing with his ex-wife Tiffany's engagement to Frank. Feeling left out and alone, Richie turns to the Zen Garden picture as a symbol of human nature. It reminds him that despite his loneliness, he is not alone in his feelings. Millions of people around the world feel the same way.
The Meaning Behind Richie's Zen Garden Picture
The Zen garden picture has a deeper meaning than just a symbol of Richie's loneliness. Richie did not take the picture himself; it was captured by movie director William Friedkin during a visit to Japan. Friedkin passed away in August 2023, and The Bear Season 3 pays homage to his work by showcasing the picture. In the show, Richie explains the significance of the garden to Sugar, who already knows about it because her husband, Pete, is also a fan of William Friedkin.
Richie says that the garden represents human nature and the inherent loneliness that all people experience. This moment between Richie and Sugar is brief but impactful, highlighting the influence of William Friedkin on both the show and the real world. It's a touching tribute to his work while also deepening Richie's character development.
The Zen Garden's Impact On Richie
The Zen garden picture provides Richie with a new perspective on his life. He feels lost and unsure of his future. The picture helps him realize that his loneliness is a temporary bump in the road, a common human experience that won't last forever. He finds solace in the knowledge that he is not alone and that millions of other people feel the same way.
The Zen garden serves as a reminder of Richie's purpose in life. He enjoys serving people and finding meaning in his work. He has a daughter who loves him, a family who supports him, and friends like Tiffany and Frank who try to include him in their lives. Even though he is on bad terms with Carmy, it is only a temporary setback.
The Bear Season 3's Ending And Richie's Future
By the end of The Bear Season 3, Richie is moving forward with his life and working to overcome his loneliness. He has acknowledged his feelings and is in a better place. The show ends with a meaningful conversation between Richie and Jess, a co-worker from season 2, that fulfills his arc for the season. However, the story isn't over yet. The Bear season 4 leaves many questions unanswered about Richie's future, including whether the Zen garden will continue to be a source of comfort for him.
The Bear is a show that has captured the hearts of viewers with its relatable characters and compelling story. Richie's journey in Season 3 is a testament to the power of self-discovery and the importance of finding comfort in shared human experiences. The Zen garden serves as a reminder that even in our loneliest moments, we are not truly alone.
