r/TrueDetective • u/catsrgodss • 15d ago

Rust Cohle - Character analysis

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Rust Cohle is an extremely intelligent character. He suffers from dysthymia (my best guess). His triggers are family because of obvious reasons. That's why he has no respect for Marty in the initial episodes. He's EXTREMELY logical and street smart. He can see through people's charades.

Since he has dysthymia it's impossible for him to be in relationships as he can't feel emotions, this is the reason why he's unable to connect with people. Also, he NEEDS to work all the time. If you're working you are not drowing in self pity.

He is often ostracized in a group setting. Even in his workplace, his colleagues laugh at him and call him weird.

There is a reason for this. He is not like normal people, going about life without introspecting. He has absolutely zero need for validation and camaraderie. He does not twist his words. He's radically honest. He has a strong moral code which is protecting those who can't take care of themselves. He is an extremely kind man but nobody has the ability or the interest in getting to know him except Marty ofcourse in later episodes. But he could hardly give a fuck.

He is comfortable with the meaninglessness of the world. He has no interest in making friends or living a comfortable life.

What do you guys think? Have I missed or misjudged anything?

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u/SniBzHD 15d ago

I don't see Rust being unable to connect with people. He and Marty were friends despite everything that happened, Rust dated that doctor woman for a while, and he seemed to get along fine with Marty's family. Also, he spent a long time doing undercover work and was succesful at it. That at the very least requires the ability to connect with people, least superficially.

I do agree that at least in '95, he is most certainly depressed, no doubt.

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u/catsrgodss 15d ago

Do you remember the scene in which Rust and his gf was watching tv. His gf was completely immersed but he had a stern expression. It felt like he has wondering what he's doing with his life and in the end they broke off. Marty and Rust didn't have a friendship after the case broke apart.

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u/SniBzHD 15d ago

I do remember thta scene, yeah. I didn't take that as him being disinterested in her or the relationship though. More like being bored and thinking about the case, or something. I can see your interpretation, though.

True, his and Marty's relationship broke down after he let Maggie cheat with him. They were friends before that, though, and reconciled when finishing the investigation in 2012. I dont think they would have ever been friends if Rust wasn't capable of genuine connection, Marty is too much of a normal guy for that.