Years have passed since the tragic death of Alexandra DeWitt, yet for Green Lantern Kyle Rayner, the pain and guilt still linger. Alexandra’s demise marked a pivotal moment in Kyle’s career as a superhero and shed light on a disturbing trend in comics. Even amidst his countless battles and triumphs, nothing has impacted Kyle more profoundly than the loss of the woman he loved.
In Green Lantern #8’s backup story “Good Talk” by Ron Marz and Dale Eaglesham, Kyle Rayner finds himself alone, reminiscing about his early days as the sole Green Lantern of the DC Universe. He recalls a time when he felt confident and secure, facing off against adversaries in New York City.
As Kyle concludes his tale, it’s revealed that he has created a construct of Alexandra DeWitt, his former girlfriend, using his power ring. In a remote location, Kyle unburdens himself, pouring out his thoughts and emotions to this construct of the woman he lost.
Kyle Rayner was thrust into the role of Green Lantern following Hal Jordan’s fall from grace. Supported by Alexandra, he embraced his new responsibilities. Tragically, Alexandra’s life was cut short when Kyle’s nemesis, Major Force, brutally murdered her and callously left her body in a refrigerator for Kyle to discover. This shocking event, criticized by many, including Gail Simone who coined the term ‘fridging,’ left a lasting scar on Kyle and the comic book community.
Despite Kyle’s subsequent relationships with other heroes like Donna Troy, Jade, and Soranik Natu, the memory of Alexandra’s death continues to haunt him. Despite his efforts to process the trauma, seek therapy, and lean on his friends within the Green Lantern Corps, Kyle struggles to come to terms with the loss, feeling a sense of responsibility for her demise.
The question remains: Can Green Lantern Kyle Rayner ever find peace and closure regarding Alexandra’s death? While he appears to be coping and maintaining a semblance of normalcy, his decision to create a construct of Alexandra reveals the depth of his enduring grief. Like many heroes burdened by the weight of past failures, Kyle’s journey toward healing is ongoing, with the specter of Alexandra’s death serving as a constant reminder of his greatest loss.
In the end, while Kyle Rayner may continue to grapple with the pain of Alexandra’s death, his resilience and the support of his fellow Corps members offer hope for his eventual reconciliation with the past. But for now, a part of Green Lantern will always be tethered to the memory of the woman he loved and lost.
FAQ
Who is Alexandra DeWitt in Green Lantern comics?
Alexandra DeWitt was the girlfriend of Kyle Rayner, who later became the Green Lantern. Her tragic death at the hands of Major Force served as a significant event in Kyle’s superhero journey.
What is the significance of Alexandra DeWitt’s death in comics?
Alexandra DeWitt’s death sparked discussion within the comic book community about the treatment of female characters and the use of violence against them as a plot device. Gail Simone’s term ‘fridging’ originated from this event.
How does Kyle Rayner cope with Alexandra DeWitt’s death?
Kyle Rayner struggles to come to terms with Alexandra’s death, despite seeking therapy and support from his friends. His grief is evident in his ongoing emotional turmoil and the creation of a construct of Alexandra to confide in.