The Last of Us is a critically acclaimed video game that has captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. One of the most iconic and recognizable elements of the game is protagonist Ellie's tattoo. The tattoo has become a symbol of strength, resilience, and survival in a post-apocalyptic world. Let's take a closer look at the meaning, design, and inspiration behind Ellie's tattoo.Ellie's Tattoo in The Last of Us
Ellie's Tattoo in The Last of Us
Ellie's tattoo is a quote from the The Last of Us: "Endure and Survive." These words hold a significant meaning for Ellie as they were the last words spoken by her mother before she died. The tattoo serves as a constant reminder for Ellie to keep going, to endure the challenges and survive in a world filled with danger and loss.Ellie's Tattoo Meaning
Ellie's Tattoo Meaning
The tattoo is a simple black script with the words "Endure and Survive" written in cursive. It is located on Ellie's right arm, just above her elbow. The font is slightly jagged, giving it a rough and rugged look that fits perfectly with the game's post-apocalyptic setting.Ellie's Tattoo Design
Ellie's Tattoo Design
The tattoo was designed by the game's director, Neil Druckmann, and was brought to life by lead character artist Michael Knowland. The team wanted the tattoo to be a subtle yet powerful symbol for Ellie's character, and they succeeded in creating a design that is now synonymous with the game.Ellie's Tattoo Artist
Ellie's Tattoo Artist
The placement of Ellie's tattoo on her arm is not a coincidence. In fact, it was carefully chosen to have a deeper meaning. Ellie's right arm is her dominant arm, the one she uses to wield weapons and defend herself. The tattoo serves as a reminder that she is strong and can endure whatever comes her way.Ellie's Tattoo Location
Ellie's Tattoo Location
The Last of Us is set in a post-apocalyptic world where a deadly fungus has infected most of humanity, turning them into violent creatures known as "infected." The game follows Joel and Ellie, two survivors trying to navigate this dangerous world. Ellie's tattoo is just one of the many intricate details that make this game a masterpiece.Ellie's Tattoo Game
Ellie's Tattoo Game
Ellie's tattoo has become so popular that many fans have gotten it inked on their own bodies. It has become a symbol of strength and survival not just in the game but also in real life. Many people have shared their tattoos on social media, expressing their love for the game and its powerful message.Ellie's Tattoo Real Life
Ellie's Tattoo Real Life
The tattoo is not just a quote; it holds a deeper symbolism for Ellie's character. It represents her resilience and determination to keep going despite the odds. It also serves as a connection to her mother, whom she lost at a young age. The tattoo is a part of Ellie's identity, and it has helped shape her into the strong and fierce survivor that she is.Ellie's Tattoo Symbolism
Ellie's Tattoo Symbolism
The inspiration for Ellie's tattoo came from the book The Road by Cormac McCarthy. The quote "Carry the fire" from the book also serves as a theme in The Last of Us. It symbolizes the hope and determination to keep going in a world that is falling apart. The team behind the game wanted to create a similar powerful message with Ellie's tattoo.Ellie's Tattoo Inspiration
Ellie's Tattoo Inspiration
Ellie's tattoo has inspired many fan artists to create their own versions of the design. Some have added their own personal touches, while others have recreated it exactly as it appears in the game. The tattoo has become a popular subject in fan art, showcasing the love and admiration for The Last of Us.Ellie's Tattoo Fan Art
Ellie's Tattoo Fan Art
The Unique and Meaningful Tattoos of Ellie from The Last of Us
Designing a Tattoo That Tells a Story
When it comes to getting a tattoo, many people choose a design based on its aesthetic appeal or personal significance. But for Ellie, the main character of the popular video game The Last of Us, her tattoos serve as powerful reminders of her past and the people she has lost.
Ellie's most prominent tattoo is located on her right forearm and consists of a series of black lines depicting a moth, a wolf, and an owl. This tattoo serves as a tribute to her fallen friend Riley, who had a fascination with moths and often compared herself to the nocturnal creature. The wolf represents her protector and father figure, Joel, while the owl symbolizes Ellie's ability to see through the darkness and overcome obstacles.
These tattoos are not just random designs inked onto Ellie's skin, but rather, they hold deep meaning and significance to her character and story.
They serve as a constant reminder of her past and the people who have shaped her into the strong and resilient young woman she has become.
Using Tattoos as a Form of Expression
In addition to her tribute tattoo, Ellie also has a small tattoo on her left hand that reads "So Close," a reference to the song she sings in the game. This tattoo represents Ellie's determination and perseverance, as well as her love for music.
But
tattoos are not just a form of self-expression for Ellie; they are also a way for her to cope with the traumatic events she has experienced.
In the game's sequel, The Last of Us Part II, Ellie adds more tattoos to her collection, including one that says "Forgiveness" and another that reads "Endure and Survive." These tattoos serve as a reminder for Ellie to continue moving forward and find strength in the face of adversity.
Inspiring Real-Life Tattoos
Ellie's tattoos have not only captured the hearts of players in The Last of Us, but they have also inspired real-life tattoos. Many fans of the game have gotten similar designs inked onto their own skin,
showing the impact and significance of these tattoos beyond the virtual world.
The unique and meaningful tattoos of Ellie from The Last of Us serve as a testament to the power of body art and how it can tell a story and hold deep personal significance.
Ellie's tattoos are not just a design, but a form of self-expression and a way to honor the people and experiences that have shaped her.
