The World According To Chris

In 'The World According To Chris' from 'Carrie (The Musical)', the character Chris Hargensen lays out a harsh, Darwinian worldview. Chris believes that life is a zero-sum game where only the ruthless survive. She argues that it's better to strike first than to be struck, to dominate rather than be dominated. This perspective is rooted in her father's teachings, emphasizing that niceness gets you nowhere. Chris's philosophy is a reflection of her own insecurities and desire for control, manifesting in her bullying behavior towards Carrie and others she deems weaker.

Contrasting Chris's harsh outlook, Sue Snell represents a voice of conscience and empathy. Sue questions Chris's cruel behavior and the necessity of such a cutthroat approach to life. She reflects on a moment of collective bullying against Carrie, expressing regret and a desire to make amends. Sue's internal conflict highlights the moral struggle between following the crowd and standing up for what is right. Her conversation with Tommy Ross, who advises her to apologize, underscores the theme of redemption and the possibility of change.

The song also touches on the broader social dynamics within the high school setting. Billy Nolan, Chris's boyfriend, and other students join in, reinforcing the idea that cruelty and dominance are normalized behaviors. This collective mentality creates a toxic environment where empathy is seen as weakness. The repeated refrain 'The world according to Chris' serves as a chilling reminder of how pervasive and damaging such a worldview can be. Ultimately, the song is a commentary on the destructive nature of bullying and the importance of challenging harmful social norms.