Citizen Kane's Last Word: Rosebud

Citizen Kane, directed by Orson Welles in 1941, is hailed as a cinematic masterpiece and a landmark in the history of film. The movie tells the story of Charles Foster Kane, a wealthy and powerful newspaper tycoon, whose life is the subject of investigation following his death. One of the enduring mysteries of the film is the meaning of Kane's last word, "Rosebud." In this essay, I will explore the significance of Rosebud in the context of Kane's character, the narrative structure of the film, and its broader themes of power, wealth, and the human condition.

The Enigma of Rosebud

From the opening scenes of Citizen Kane, Rosebud is established as a central mystery that drives the narrative forward. As reporters interview Kane's friends, family, and associates in an attempt to unravel the mystery of his life, the audience is introduced to the enigmatic figure of Kane himself. Throughout the film, Rosebud is referenced as a key to understanding Kane's character and motivations.

One interpretation of Rosebud is that it represents Kane's lost innocence and childhood. As we learn more about Kane's upbringing, we see how he was taken from his family at a young age and raised by a banker, who groomed him for a life of wealth and power. In this reading, Rosebud symbolizes Kane's longing for a simpler time, before he became consumed by his ambition and desire for control.

Rosebud as a Narrative Device

Beyond its symbolic significance, Rosebud functions as a narrative device that propels the story forward and provides a sense of closure. The film is structured as a series of flashbacks and interviews, as we piece together Kane's life from the perspectives of those who knew him best. Rosebud serves as a unifying thread that ties these disparate elements together, leading to the revelation of its true meaning in the final moments of the film.

Welles uses Rosebud as a way to explore the nature of memory and storytelling. As the reporters search for the meaning of Kane's last word, they uncover conflicting accounts of his life and legacy. This ambiguity reflects the complexity of human experience and the ways in which we construct narratives to make sense of our lives.

Themes of Power and Loss

At its core, Citizen Kane is a meditation on the corrupting influence of power and the emptiness of wealth. Kane's relentless pursuit of success leads to his isolation and eventual downfall, as he sacrifices personal relationships and integrity in favor of control and influence. Rosebud serves as a reminder of the cost of this pursuit, as Kane's final moments reveal the hollowness of his achievements.

Throughout the film, we see how Kane's desire for power ultimately leaves him with nothing but his memories and the enigmatic symbol of Rosebud. In this sense, Rosebud represents the ultimate irony of Kane's life – a man who had everything, yet lost the one thing that truly mattered.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rosebud is a multi-faceted symbol in Citizen Kane that serves as a key to understanding the complexities of Charles Foster Kane's character and the themes of the film. Through its exploration of power, loss, and the nature of storytelling, Welles creates a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences and provoke discussion nearly 80 years after its release. As we ponder the meaning of Rosebud, we are reminded of the enduring power of cinema to illuminate the human condition and challenge us to consider the true meaning of success and fulfillment.