What does the voice say in Field of Dreams?

By Oliver Wiener April 09, 2024 18:19

Photo by Netflix

In the 1989 film "Field of Dreams," the protagonist, Ray Kinsella, hears a mysterious voice while walking through his cornfield.

The voice utters the iconic line, "If you build it, he will come," setting in motion a series of events that lead Ray to build a baseball field in his cornfield.

The film's exploration of faith, redemption, and the power of belief has captivated audiences for decades. But what does the voice in "Field of Dreams" really say, and what does it mean?

The Enigmatic Message

The voice in "Field of Dreams" speaks the words, "If you build it, he will come."

This cryptic message sets Ray on a quest to build a baseball field in the middle of his farm, despite having no clear understanding of who "he" refers to or why he is compelled to undertake such a task.

The ambiguity of the message and the inexplicable compulsion it creates form the central mystery of the film, propelling the narrative forward as Ray seeks to unravel its meaning.

Unraveling the Mystery

As the story unfolds, Ray's journey to understand the voice leads him to encounter various characters and experiences that ultimately provide clues to the voice's significance. Through his interactions with disgraced former baseball player "Shoeless" Joe Jackson and other spectral baseball players, Ray begins to comprehend that the voice may be guiding him to facilitate a supernatural baseball game that holds personal and spiritual significance for those involved.

Symbolism and Themes

The voice's message serves as a powerful symbol in the film, representing themes of faith, redemption, and the power of belief.

It challenges Ray to have faith in something intangible and to trust in the unknown, mirroring the struggles and doubts that many individuals face in their own lives.

The act of building the baseball field becomes a metaphor for pursuing one's dreams and the transformative power of taking a leap of faith, even in the face of skepticism and uncertainty.

The Power of Belief

Central to the narrative is the idea that belief and conviction can manifest extraordinary outcomes.

The voice's message compels Ray to take a significant leap of faith, and as the story progresses, it becomes evident that his unwavering belief in the voice's guidance has a profound impact not only on his own life but also on the lives of those around him.

This exploration of the power of belief resonates with audiences, tapping into a universal desire for hope and the possibility of realizing one's deepest aspirations.

Interpretations and Speculations

Some view the voice as a representation of divine intervention, guiding Ray towards a path of spiritual fulfillment and reconciliation.

Others interpret it as a manifestation of Ray's subconscious desires or a metaphor for the interconnectedness of past, present, and future.

The open-ended nature of the message allows for multiple interpretations, contributing to the film's enduring intrigue and resonance.

On the whole, the voice in "Field of Dreams" remains a captivating enigma that continues to fascinate and inspire audiences.

Its cryptic message, "If you build it, he will come," serves as a catalyst for a profound exploration of faith, redemption, and the transformative power of belief.

"Field of Dreams" endures as a timeless cinematic work that encourages audiences to ponder the mysteries of existence and the profound impact of heeding the call of the unknown.