Had we been watching a mytharc, I probably would have seen that ending coming, but when we have a usual investigation, such a personal revelation to one of our characters has to be examined in a much more immediate light. What I mean is that with mytharcs, we expect the unusual and devious and often lofty and serious revelations. In an MOTW, the focus in usually on the investigation. So when we see something so far-reaching introduced, something that has its roots in conspiracy, we're heralded to take notice. Cancer is a monster in 'Leonard Betts', and it is not only the personification of the devouring disease, but the disease itself, which announces its presence with resounding silence in Scully's bedroom at night.
Cancer is the real thing to fear, to disprove, and to solve eventually.
Cancer is the invading body, the threat, and the mystery. Leonard Betts' is a great vehicle to deliver what will turn out to be one of the most powerful stories in The X-Files. Scully lies back down in bed but she probably doesn't go back to sleep. I wanted to write about Memento Mori tonight because I just absolutely love this episode, and I just uncover a new layer every time I see it. The first instance is in the x-ray room, where Mulder comes in with flowers.