### ‘Severance’ Season 2, Episode 8: Delving into Harmony Cobel’s History

In Episode 8 of *Severance* Season 2, the narrative veers away from the known territory of Lumon Industries, leading us instead on a somber exploration of Harmony Cobel’s (Patricia Arquette) background. Her return to her childhood residence in search of something meaningful reveals a stark and empty home that offers revelations about her character and formative years.

Though the house exudes an uninviting atmosphere, various items and features throughout the space illuminate significant facets of Harmony’s history and her intricate ties to Lumon.

### Discoveries Concealed in Harmony Cobel’s Childhood Residence

Upon entering the dwelling, Harmony quickly ascends the staircase, where a Lumon plaque is displayed on the wall. The inscription states:

> **Quarterly Striver**
> 4th Quarter
> Year of Vision
> **Youth Apprentice Matron**
> Celestine “Sissy” Cobel

The designation “Sissy” Cobel may refer to an elder family member—likely an aunt—who appears to be discontent with Harmony’s unexpected arrival. This plaque indicates that Harmony grew up in a household linked to Lumon, where the company’s influence was a significant part of her family life long before her own involvement.

Further emphasizing this notion, another room in the residence features a shrine dedicated to Kier Eagan, akin to the one Harmony was shown venerating in Season 1. The shrine showcases four statue heads symbolizing the four tempers—woe, frolic, dread, and malice—alongside a newspaper clipping that proclaims, *”Jame Eagan Assumes Role as Lumon CEO.”* Additional noteworthy items comprise a poster labeled *”Work-Life Balance,”* cards illustrating *”Lumon’s Core Principles,”* and a card positioned behind Kier’s likeness that chillingly states, *”YOU MUST BE CUT TO HEAL.”* These elements highlight Lumon’s cult-like grip, reinforcing that the organization functions as more than merely an employer—it embodies a belief system that is profoundly ingrained in the lives of its adherents.

### A Look into Harmony’s Early Years

Subsequently, Harmony stops by a nearby shop, where she stumbles upon a book entitled *Annual Reminiscences.* The cover features the logo “ME,” representing the *Myrtle Eagan School for Girls.* Within, she discovers snapshots of her younger self—a teenage Harmony with a hockey team, another depicting her as class valedictorian, and a last image under the title *”Jame Eagan Wintertide Fellowship.”*

While these elements may not unravel *Severance*’s most significant enigmas, they illustrate a clearer understanding of Harmony’s history. The episode underscores how profoundly Lumon has influenced her existence, spanning her education, professional path, and personal beliefs to her familial narrative. Harmony Cobel was not merely a Lumon employee—she was shaped by it from a young age, making her steadfast fidelity to the organization all the more disconcerting.

*Severance* Season 2 is currently available on Apple TV+, with new episodes premiering every Friday.