Earlier in the month, I mentioned the concept of parallel universes when writing about a review for the Korean drama ‘The King: Eternal Monarch.’
The concept of parallel universes is quite interesting. Essentially, a parallel universe, also known as a parallel (or alternate) dimension, is a hypothetical self-contained plane of existence, co-existing with one’s own.
Now sci-fi loves a good parallel universe story, but could we really be in one?
Multiverses and parallel worlds are often argued in the context of other major scientific concepts like the Big Bang, string theory and quantum mechanics. However, at least in movies, we see this theory pop up more often than we realize. We see the concept of parallel universe in many superhero films like Doctor Strange, Avengers, and Spider-Man, and even in other icon shows like Star Trek and Doctor Who.
The whole concept is mind-blowing, but what got me thinking was that it’s possible that your entire life might be repeated elsewhere in the universe. At least, that’s the theory. But if the universe began at a finite point, then an alternate version of you likely doesn’t exist. However, in the end, I think it’s up to you to decide how you define the universe.
Another interesting point about parallel universes is the doppelgänger (a.k.a. your identical twin). Technically, if parallel universes exist, then that means you will find a copy of yourself. They may have a different name, job, and life, but they physically look identical to you.
There’s an urban legend that says if you ever come face to face with your doppelgänger then it’s a bad omen. Why? Because the moment that happens, it’ll put both you and your double in great danger.
Apparently, the theory behind this is that if you were to see someone that looks like you, your initial reaction would be shock. Then, whoever gets out of that state of shock first would realize that they would want to kill their double (I know it sounds gruesome, but it’s true) since they are afraid of them. Thus, why meeting your doppelgänger would put both at great risk.
After watching the Korean drama and revisiting films that used this parallel universe concept, I thought to myself, if I ever wrote a fictional sci-fi story about parallel universes, it’ll be quite difficult to write clearly because you’ll be jumping back and forth, which likely will confuse your readers. At least as a film you can see that they are dressed differently or the setting is different so you’ll know which doppelgänger is being referred to. Ah, lots to think about …