I needed a refresher, so I went back to read "A Million Little Pieces" again. That reminded me just how much the events and characterization had touched me in this universe.
This prequel really provides a revealing and insightful platform for what is to come. By alternating perspectives, you've provided a more complete context as well. The way you include Kirsten's and Sandy's doubts- and realizations about Seth, even if unspoken or not shared with one another or anyone, sheds light on many of Seth's defining traits and behavior that goes beyond this particular time. It makes me wonder if they're feeling guilty for never addressing so much of his self-absorbed and entitled tendencies sooner rather than indulging, excusing and ignoring them, along with encouraging such an unbalanced dynamic between Ryan and Seth. They can't really deny that they weren't aware of how unequal the relationship between Ryan and Seth has been, or what Ryan has felt obligated or responsible for doing with or for Seth that hasn't been reciprocated.
That epiphany of Kirsten's, while at Ryan's bedside, has to be horribly painful. She's being forced to look at her own child and recognize what he's cost another child she agreed to protect and care for, but who ended up being at risk instead and horribly compromised while almost paying the ultimate price. That makes me wonder what is in store for her relationship with both Ryan and Seth, although the first chapter certainly shows her in a very supportive and comforting role with Ryan.
As for Sandy, he seems to know both boys tells and is in a horrible catch-22 situation. He is programmed to unconditionally love, protect and defend his child, but he can't help but see the signs that chill and sicken him. You raise the question of when he'll finally confront Seth, since Seth doesn't have the integrity or courage to be truthful, and Ryan certainly is too insecure, vulnerable, uncertain, torn and loyal to disrupt the Cohens' lives further or cause them more pain. One of his worst fears, beyond outright abandonment, is being a burden. He has to believe he's already there and any further revelation he might make could lead to him being discarded- or fracturing the family. Nothing he could say would change the road he has to struggle on now anyway. It won't turn back the clock, only unleash more problems for him. At some point, Sandy's own conscience will have to dictate what he does and how he interacts with each boy as a result.
I hadn't thought about Luke, but I really like that you've included him in this way as part of the circle of friends right from the outset. Having Summer call him when she was in such a state, and so soon, is proof of the bonds between the three of them. The way Luke reacts, and Carson's words, only add to the plausibility and add to the atmosphere that feels real in a heartbreaking way. Somehow, it's Carson Ward as a parent who must be recalling his own son's far less serious car accident, that makes the emotional impact hit with full force.
Malcolm's perspective is a wonderful way of showing the personal investment even from someone who doesn't know Ryan intimately, but who is still so moved by what he encounters and has to deal with. It might be a job, but it's also a calling and a choice he made- and regrets when it's this painful. You have both him and Emily (of course!) being so compassionate and attentive to Ryan in a way that goes beyond their basic reponsibilities. In that brief time, they're emotionally involved despite themselves. Something about Malcolm's thoughts about his former role as police officer also hints at the prevailing attitude- now and to come- towards Seth. Some so-called accidents aren't so accidental.
You've touched upon many relevant points here and so much of what's involved in the family and personal dynamics. There are a number of opportunities here, so I really do hope you continue delving into this universe, even if it means lots of Kleenex for each reading.
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timeasmymeasure
no subject
Date: 2008-03-29 02:27 am (UTC)This prequel really provides a revealing and insightful platform for what is to come. By alternating perspectives, you've provided a more complete context as well. The way you include Kirsten's and Sandy's doubts- and realizations about Seth, even if unspoken or not shared with one another or anyone, sheds light on many of Seth's defining traits and behavior that goes beyond this particular time. It makes me wonder if they're feeling guilty for never addressing so much of his self-absorbed and entitled tendencies sooner rather than indulging, excusing and ignoring them, along with encouraging such an unbalanced dynamic between Ryan and Seth. They can't really deny that they weren't aware of how unequal the relationship between Ryan and Seth has been, or what Ryan has felt obligated or responsible for doing with or for Seth that hasn't been reciprocated.
That epiphany of Kirsten's, while at Ryan's bedside, has to be horribly painful. She's being forced to look at her own child and recognize what he's cost another child she agreed to protect and care for, but who ended up being at risk instead and horribly compromised while almost paying the ultimate price. That makes me wonder what is in store for her relationship with both Ryan and Seth, although the first chapter certainly shows her in a very supportive and comforting role with Ryan.
As for Sandy, he seems to know both boys tells and is in a horrible catch-22 situation. He is programmed to unconditionally love, protect and defend his child, but he can't help but see the signs that chill and sicken him. You raise the question of when he'll finally confront Seth, since Seth doesn't have the integrity or courage to be truthful, and Ryan certainly is too insecure, vulnerable, uncertain, torn and loyal to disrupt the Cohens' lives further or cause them more pain. One of his worst fears, beyond outright abandonment, is being a burden. He has to believe he's already there and any further revelation he might make could lead to him being discarded- or fracturing the family. Nothing he could say would change the road he has to struggle on now anyway. It won't turn back the clock, only unleash more problems for him. At some point, Sandy's own conscience will have to dictate what he does and how he interacts with each boy as a result.
I hadn't thought about Luke, but I really like that you've included him in this way as part of the circle of friends right from the outset. Having Summer call him when she was in such a state, and so soon, is proof of the bonds between the three of them. The way Luke reacts, and Carson's words, only add to the plausibility and add to the atmosphere that feels real in a heartbreaking way. Somehow, it's Carson Ward as a parent who must be recalling his own son's far less serious car accident, that makes the emotional impact hit with full force.
Malcolm's perspective is a wonderful way of showing the personal investment even from someone who doesn't know Ryan intimately, but who is still so moved by what he encounters and has to deal with. It might be a job, but it's also a calling and a choice he made- and regrets when it's this painful. You have both him and Emily (of course!) being so compassionate and attentive to Ryan in a way that goes beyond their basic reponsibilities. In that brief time, they're emotionally involved despite themselves. Something about Malcolm's thoughts about his former role as police officer also hints at the prevailing attitude- now and to come- towards Seth. Some so-called accidents aren't so accidental.
You've touched upon many relevant points here and so much of what's involved in the family and personal dynamics. There are a number of opportunities here, so I really do hope you continue delving into this universe, even if it means lots of Kleenex for each reading.
Thanks!