Why are there so many turtle symbolisms in It: Welcome to Derry? Details explored

It: Welcome to Derry has a lot of turtle references - via @Hbo Max
Snapshot from preview of Episode 6 of It: Welcome to Derry - via @Hbo Max's YouTube channel

The new show, It: Welcome to Derry, uses many turtle images and references, and that seems to be very purposeful. These turtle signs are not random; they point to a deeper idea in the universe created by Stephen King.

Right from the first episode, you see a school mascot turtle and even a signboard that says, "Bert the Turtle Says: Duck and Cover." Later, a young character gives another a little turtle charm and calls it "lucky." On the surface, these may look like small touches. But together they hint at something larger, something connected to the strange and cosmic lore behind the story of It: Welcome to Derry.


The turtle behind the scenes of It: Welcome to Derry

In Stephen King's larger universe, there is a cosmic being called Maturin the Turtle. He is no ordinary turtle; rather, he represents both massive size, ancient wisdom, and immense power. His place in the universe is beyond our realm, but he is also among those who have been entrusted to maintain cosmic equilibrium.

When depicted in the story, Maturin embodies creation and protection while contrasting with the dark character "Pennywise," who represents fear, darkness, and destruction. That makes Maturin and Pennywise natural enemies.

Even in the original novel, It, and related works in King's multiverse, the turtle represents hope, light, and protection. In some stories, Maturin even helps guide characters toward strength and unity. So when you see turtle symbols in It: Welcome to Derry, you might think the show is quietly reminding viewers of Maturin's presence, or at least the idea of protection, hope, and a force that stands against evil.


What It: Welcome to Derry might be trying to say with so many turtles?

The many turtle images, the mascot, the charm bracelet, and repeated turtle references could mean more than decoration in It: Welcome to Derry. They could be clues. Perhaps the show's creators want viewers to sense that the cosmic conflict between good (Maturin) and evil (Pennywise) is nearby. The turtle signs may foreshadow that Maturin's influence matters for what comes next.

Also, turtles as symbols carry a long history. In many myths and cultures, a turtle holding the world on its back stands for creation, longevity, wisdom, and stability. The idea of a "world-bearing turtle" appears in many traditions.

Given that legacy, the show, It: Welcome to Derry's use of turtle imagery may evoke ancient, almost mythic feelings. It is as though the world of Derry is not just horror but part of a larger cosmic story. Turtles suggest that beneath human fear and cruelty lies a deeper struggle between creation and destruction.

Because of this, even small touches, like a bracelet or a school mascot, feel more meaningful. They may be gentle signals that there is more behind the horror you see, more connected to the grand myth of Maturin and evil.


What we don't know yet and what might happen?

But it is not clear exactly how much It: Welcome to Derry will lean on this cosmic conflict. So far, we have hints and symbols. The turtle charm and mascot are suggestive, not proof. Some fans wonder if Maturin will appear onscreen or play an active role. Others believe the turtles will remain a subtle hint, a nod for those familiar with the lore.

There are ongoing discussions among Stephen King fans about the actual representation of the turtle symbol and whether all the turtle symbols in his writing can be viewed as symbols of Maturin. Due to the breadth and complexity of King's universe, some symbols may not always have a clear meaning, but there are many who feel that the turtle symbols within King's works symbolise hope and/or at least provide the possibility of hope. In a story filled with fear, suffering, and evil, the turtle motif could mean that light and kindness still exist. Perhaps the children in Derry are not entirely alone.

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For now, it seems that the many turtles in It: Welcome to Derry are more than just some background details. They connect the show to a huge story beyond what you see on screen. Through the turtle symbol, the show might be hinting at ancient powers, cosmic balance, and a battle between good and evil that goes far beyond Derry.

Whether the show will reveal it fully only time will tell.


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Edited by Debanjana