Unraveling the Mystery of Rosebud: The Dimensions and Implications of Charles Foster Kane’s Sled

“Rosebud” holds a significant place in the narrative of Orson Welles’ Citizen Kane. It is more than just the name on Charles Foster Kane’s snow sled—it symbolizes a pivotal moment in his life. The sled is an emblem of his childhood, lost in the complexities of adulthood.

What Does Rosebud Mean in Citizen Kane?

The sled, named “Rosebud,” is central to the film’s plot. When Kane is on his deathbed, his last words are “Rosebud,” setting in motion a quest to uncover the meaning behind these simple two syllables. It is not merely the sled or the name, but what they represent—fragile memories, purity, and the untainted world of childhood.

The sled was the last thing Kane possessed from his family home before his mother signed him away to a trust. On his 25th birthday, he inherited a fortune, transforming what should have been a rite of passage into a journey of undermining his identity. The sled, a humble and sentimental object, symbolizes the loss of innocence. This object remains in his personal belongings throughout his life, only to be burned on his final day, as if symbolizing the end of all innocence and the beginning of his complex journey of greed and power.

Is Rosebud a 'Couple' or 'Few'?

Interestingly, some confusion surrounds the term “Rosebud”—whether it represents a couple of items or a few. A lawyer once mocked the concept during a coaching session, suggesting that there is a literal interpretation of the term. However, in this context, Rosebud refers to the name of the sled or a phrase encapsulating a metaphorical meaning. It is a reminder of Kane’s past, imbued with sentiment and longing.

Susan and the Meaning of Rosebud

Another layer to the interpretation of Rosebud involves the character Susan. For Kane, Susan might symbolize the essence of what he values in life—a connection to his youth and the simple, innocent time of his childhood. She represents the non-materialistic, sentimental object that contrasts sharply with the opulence he later embraced. She is a symbol of the purity and simplicity of childlike joy that Kane eventually tried to reclaim in his adult life but found increasingly elusive.

The Sled and Kane: A Symbol of Rebellion and Hypocrisy

Symbols within the film suggest that throughout his life, Kane was a figure of both rebellion and hypocrisy. The sled, a childhood symbol, hints at his desire to rebel against societal norms, especially those that valued wealth over character. Yet, he ultimately found himself entangled in the very system that attributed all value to money and power. This duality is a recurring theme in the film, highlighting Kane’s complex character and the multifaceted nature of truth and morality.

Further Interpretations and Connections

The sled is also compared to scenes in Roman Polanski's Vampire Killers, where key elements align with the snow globe from Citizen Kane. This parallels Kane’s transformation, mirroring his earlier life within the festive realms of the snow globe, juxtaposed with the harsh realities of adulthood.

The sled holds a complex set of meanings, often viewed as a juvenile symbol by Kane himself. The sled is named after an unnamed character, making it an object that resonates with Kane’s own name. This reinforces the theme of self-identity and the search for meaning in life. As a child, he was defined by his name; as an adult, he seeks to define his legacy by his actions, yet the sled remains a constant reference to his lost innocence.

Behind-the-Scenes Insights

Another intriguing layer to the sled and its name is the darker reasoning behind the sled’s import. William Randolph Hearst, a powerful figure whose nepotism and influence over media were legendary, hated Citizen Kane. To some, the sled and its name may have been a nudge or jab at Hearst, emphasizing the film’s critique of media ownership and manipulation. The sled, much like the name “Rosebud,” may have held hidden innuendos and personal attacks, adding an extra layer of depth to the narrative.

Conclusion: A Symbol of Lost Innocence and Unfulfilled Dreams

In sum, the sled named “Rosebud” in Citizen Kane is a powerful symbol that encapsulates the themes of childhood, innocence, and the quest for meaning. It serves as a reminder of the lost moments in Kane’s life and the struggles that defined his journey. The sled’s enigmatic name, “Rosebud,” remains a mystery that continues to captivate audiences and prompt further reflection on the complexities of human existence.