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A Study In Contrasts - The Color Blue

Just when you think you know where a storyline is headed Weiner shifts your attention or reveals a side of a character that was unexpected. Another aspect of the writing for this show is the parallels between characters. The tension in the room when Sally answers the silent phone (I think it was Hilton) and the contrasting parallels it brings to light. The feeling that all of the characters are in some way trapped and unhappy and how that sensation is dealt with seems to be a central focus of many storylines. The Birtish wife trapped in NYC. Fashion model Betty trapped in the domestic life. Sal trapped by the lies about his sexuality. Peggy trapped by her gender in light of her ambitions. The teacher sad for her brother's illness ( and yet unexpectedly completely OK with being the other woman). And ultimately Don seemingly the most trapped and yet the most free. So in this episode we see various shades of "blue" and how these shades change in the light. And like all colors they can be painted over, especially when your successful husband gives a speech to a roomful of admiring peers.

Posted by JasonLloyd73
October 19, 2009 4:17pm

Comments

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By 60'schild on October 19, 2009 4:27 PM

Hi JasonLloyd73!

Great post!!

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By Loves Mad Men on October 19, 2009 5:21 PM

@jason: I will respond to certain sentences in your post.

Just when you think you know where a storyline is headed Weiner shifts your attention or reveals a side of a character that was unexpected. AGREED

Another aspect of the writing for this show is the parallels between characters. The tension in the room when Sally answers the silent phone (I think it was Hilton) and the contrasting parallels it brings to light. THAT WAS THE TEACHER WHO HUNG UP ON SALLY. THE THING THAT GOT ME ABOUT THAT SCENE IS THAT BOTH BETTY AND DON'S HEARTS STOPPED. THEY WERE BOTH GUILTY. THEN SALLY GOT SNAPPED AT FOR IT. I WONDER IS SHE'S GOING TO MURDER HER PARENTS SOME DAY. THE TEACHER IS DECEITFUL AND MANIPULATIVE.