Understanding the Complex Decisions in The Walking Dead: Why They Didn’t Attack Negan and How It Could Have Been Done Better

In the immensely popular television series The Walking Dead, the decision not to attack Negan and his Saviors is a complex one rooted in various factors that intertwine fear, strategic calculations, moral dilemmas, and plot developments.

The Complexity of Decisions Amidst Fear and Intimidation

The Saviors, led by the formidable Negan, impose fear and intimidation on the world of The Walking Dead through their brutal tactics. His use of fear not only establishes a strong atmosphere of dread but also makes it incredibly difficult for other characters to consider a direct attack. This fear is a recurring theme throughout the series, underscoring the psychological impact of living in a post-apocalyptic world governed by such a ruthless leader.

Strategic Calculations: Avoiding Devastating Losses

Characters like Rick Grimes and his group are well aware of the strategic risks associated with a direct assault. Negan and the Saviors are well-armed and organized, and an all-out attack could result in significant casualties for Rick's group. This consideration is not just about the numbers but also about maintaining cohesion and morale within the survivor community. Every life is precious, and the group must protect their own while also seeking to survive.

Moral Dilemmas: Balancing Deadly Tactics and Survival

The survivors often grapple with profound moral questions about violence and leadership. Many characters, including some from Rick's group, feel conflicted about resorting to the same brutal tactics that Negan employs. The show explores the ethical implications of violence as a means of self-preservation, making every decision a moral conundrum. This internal conflict adds depth to the characters and the audience's understanding of their motivations.

Alliances and Resources: Building Strength Before Confrontation

Early in their conflict, Rick's group lacks sufficient allies and resources to mount a successful offensive against Negan. They are in a vulnerable position and need to build strength before confronting him. This is not just about numbers but also about building the trust and unity needed to stand up to such a formidable enemy. The series often highlights the importance of unity and preparation in facing adversity.

Plot Development: Delaying the Conflict for Character Growth and Theme Exploration

From a narrative perspective, delaying the conflict with Negan allows for character development and the exploration of themes such as power, survival, and morality in a post-apocalyptic world. This tension builds drama and engages the audience over a longer arc. The delay is a strategic choice that serves both the characters and the story, making each confrontation with Negan more impactful and meaningful.

Analysis: They Did but They Did It Poorly

While it is true that the series did attempt to attack Negan, the execution was suboptimal. Here is a breakdown of the mistakes:

Mistake 1: Not Interrogating Negan's Loyal Men – The group did not fully understand the dynamics of Negan’s leadership. Interrogating his loyal men could have provided valuable insights into Negan's tactics and strategies. Mistake 2: Stealthy Assaults Without Prior Knowledge – Attacking Negan’s bases stealthily like marines, while aiming to eliminate many of his men, lacked adequate intelligence on Negan's whereabouts. This approach was risky and ill-advised. Mistake 3: Insufficient Soldiers – The lack of sufficient soldiers in the group meant they were unprepared for a large-scale confrontation with Negan and the Saviors. Mistake 4: No Sniper Observation – Lacking a sniper rifle and constant surveillance of Negan's camp would have made it easier to neutralize him. In a post-apocalyptic world without modern surveillance, a sniper could have been an invaluable tool. Mistake 5: Daryl's Ill-Advised Move – Daryl's physical move on Negan, which he was forced to respond to, could have been better handled. This move escalated the situation unnecessarily.

I understand that Negan still exists in the comics, but at some point in the show, he must face a fatal encounter. Otherwise, the series risks becoming unrealistic and repetitive. A well-executed assassination would not only address the strategic oversight but also provide a satisfying conclusion to his character arc.

Overall, the combination of fear, strategic planning, moral considerations, and narrative pacing contributes to the group's reluctance to attack Negan directly. However, a more careful and well-thought-out plan could have potentially routed Negan and the Saviors effectively. The Walking Dead explores these complex decisions, reflecting real-world dilemmas and moral quandaries in an engaging and thought-provoking manner.