Once Upon a Time in the City of New York

A new show premiering:

It is so hard to think back and remember what my first impressions were of a new show on CBS called, “Beauty and the Beast.” I had read and re-read the summary of the new show in the “Fall Premiere” issue of the TV Guide. I gazed at the full-length picture of Catherine in the arms of a large, strong man in patchwork clothing, his face hidden behind a curtain of golden hair. A modern retelling of my favorite fairytale. I could not wait.

I fervently hoped that TPTB would not destroy this beloved story like they did with that awful comedy based on “Snow White”. I hoped that the show producers would use a lion’s face rather then the boar’s head, which I had seen in various book illustrations. I hoped that this show would be something special. It was certainly different than anything else I had seen on TV in recent years. I will be honest and say that I did not expect the show to go beyond that first year---few of the “unique” shows that struck my fancy ever lasted very long. A Friday night time slot was the “kiss of death” to most CBS shows. I could only hope.

Thankfully, I was not disappointed. “Beauty and the Beast” was a show beyond my greatest expectations and inspired my imagination. I have never had a story capture my heart, become a part of my life, and continue to live within me to this day. The world of “Beauty and the Beast” and Vincent and Catherine’s unfathomable love changed my life. I would never be the same.

*****

When looking at this first episode, I find it hard to forget what I know about the whole story of Vincent and Catherine. I will try to look at just the episode and make my conclusions on what I am told in only this one episode.

The Pilot has a lot of ground to cover. Who are these characters and why should I care about them? How they act, and interact with one another and what they say speaks volumes about who these people are in a short time.

*****

Once Upon a Time….

Catherine Chandler:

Catherine: “No Dad, I am the daughter of a fine corporate lawyer.”

Who is Catherine Chandler? She is a woman born into the high society of New York City life, a beautiful, confident, professional lady. Her father is a corporate lawyer and she has followed in his footsteps. She is very much “Daddy’s Little Girl” and has probably lived the sheltered and pampered life of the wealthy. She is doing her best to please her father by working in his firm. But, I get the feeling that she is unsatisfied.

By her actions and words we can understand the underlying dissatisfaction with her life. She is late to the office on many occasions. She is not “inspired” or “stimulated” by her corporate work. Her social life and evenings out are often an extension of her professional life. She is the prize catch on the arm of the most eligible bachelor in town; a choice in a man her father approves of ---since there is a hint that she has chosen poorly in the past.

At the party, Catherine demonstrates her gentleness, warmth, and compassion for others by taking the time to talk to a hurting friend. Her friend is more important then the “wining and dining of the Planning Commission.” She bristles at the coldness and callousness of her boyfriend, Tom, and Catherine does not hesitate to stand up to him, tired of being told what to do by others. She is a strong, capable woman with her own mind, yet most often yields to the expectations of others as her high-bred upbringing dictates. I think Catherine is looking for meaning in her life, but she is not sure how to change things. Maybe she lacks the courage to make those changes because she does not want to disappoint those that love her.

IMHO, I thought that her storming out onto the street and trusting a complete stranger to call a taxi was very naive of her. It made her an easy prey. Catherine is much too trusting of others. She should have known better when on the NYC streets. However, I am sure she thought she was safe since she was in a familiar and “good” part of town. On the other hand, Catherine did not have much of a chance since these men were determined to do harm.

I think that Catherine fought against her attackers as much as she could, but they easily subdued her, beating her and slashing her face. She was dumped like garbage. I do not know how long she lay in the wet grass, the night cold and loss of blood endangering her life.

*****

Tangent: Would Catherine's slashed face have caused enough blood loss that she would not have survived if Vincent had taken her to a hospital rather than Below? Could she have been slashed or stabbed elsewhere on her body? We know she had been beaten and had broken ribs. How long did she lay there in the grass before Vincent found her, maybe the combination of blood loss, shock and hypothermia was taking its toll and she was close to death.

****

A Safe Place

Voice: You’re safe. You’re safe, now.…

Catherine wakes up frightened and in an unknown place. Her body is racked with pain and with the bandages swathed about her head she is unable to see. A quiet, gentle voice reassures her that she is safe and that no one will harm her. Somehow, through her fear, she makes the first step toward recovery by trusting that unknown voice and believing in it. Catherine even gives him her name. Her tentative trust took amazing courage on her part, I doubt she would easily trust anyone again. It is almost as if she cannot help herself in believing the compassionate, honest voice of this person called Vincent. She has nothing else to cling too.

I wonder what she thought when she touched his hand to steady the spoon? I wonder what she convinced herself it was—a furred sleeve perhaps?

Even as she heals and talks to Vincent, her fears and worries continue to haunt her. She does not know where she is. She is in essence blindfolded even though her eyes were not hurt. She wants to know the truth about her slashed face. She is worried that her father has no idea where she is and must be frantic. When Catherine knows she is left alone, she is no longer willing to wait—is it impatience or bravery? She must get her answers and tears off her bandages.

*****

Vincent:

Vincent: Don’t be afraid. Please…don’t be afraid.

A woman is hurt and frightened, and more important then her physical injuries, is her mental and emotional injury. He wants her to know that she is safe and that no harm will come to her. Rest. Sleep. Relax. Heal. “Don’t be afraid.”

*****

<SIGH> The “Voice.” <swoon> It is said that it took Ron Perlman awhile to settle on a “voice” for Vincent. I understand that it was very soft, throaty, and often hard to hear on the set. <smile> I think he got the voice right. It is the heart and soul of this incredible character.

*****

Who is this mysterious person named Vincent? We have not yet seen his face. We learn about him through his words and his surroundings. His heart is filled with compassion and care for others. Although, he takes precautions because he apparently looks different, his safety is the least of his worries when it comes to the lives of others. His soft voice is reassuring in its gentleness, goodness, and honesty. His chamber is cozy, warm, and comfortable. His room speaks of an educated and cultured man at peace with himself.

Vincent is sworn to secrets, but he somehow knows he can trust this woman from Above with them and in turn ease her fears. He tells her where she is, a little bit about his home, and about himself. While his tale seems fantastic, like Catherine, we know it is the truth.

*****

Father and the Tunnel World

Father: “You have the soul of a doctor…”

Father is very upset with Vincent for bringing a stranger Below. It is against his rules and threatens their safety and secrets. Father is very protective of his unique son and reminds Vincent again---I can see he must do this often---of the dangers Above and what would happen if he was discovered. Yet, there is a lot of love for his son and he speaks fondly of Vincent’s heart and soul.

Father could be a leader; he seemed an authority figure. It is established that that he is a doctor. There were secrets to be kept. The people living below the city know of Vincent. They communicate with each other and take care of one another. The first episode does not give much of a hint to the scope of the tunnel community that we have come to know.

I did not know what to expect of the tunnel world. I got the feeling that Vincent and Father were one of many pockets of people living below the city, part of a scattered community underground. Vincent and Father appeared to be living deep in the bedrock, rather then those in the steam tunnels and forgotten caverns closer to the surface. Vincent’s chamber and his father’s library are filled with castoffs from the city above ground. They both are well educated and seem to surround themselves with the Renaissance type of “finer” things. Even their clothing is medieval and layered against the underground chill.

*****

The Faces in the “Mirror”

The one thing Catherine cannot find in the strange chamber is a mirror and this is what she desperately needs. She frantically finds a bowl-shaped auto headlight reflector and looking in the distorted glass sees her slashed face for the first time. Her face is more horrible to her then she can imagine and her fears begin to mount anew. In the same moment, there is movement behind her and in the contorted glass another face appears. Catherine turns and flings the reflector.

IMHO, I think her cry of fright and reaction was mostly because of the horror of her own disfigurement and the surprise of having someone come up unexpectedly behind her. I do believe she was startled by Vincent’s alien face; she was shocked by it, but not horrified. It took her a moment to realize it was Vincent, the “voice”, and her friend. If she had been afraid of him, she would not have pursued him to the doorway as he turned and fled.

Catherine drops down on the bench and starts to sob. She cries for herself, her fears, her ruined face, and the friend she has frightened away. She is lost and alone, without hope.

*****

Tangent: “ I never regretted what I am…until now.”

I have often pondered these haunting words. Vincent appeared to be comfortable in his own skin, he understood his differences, his limitations in life and accepted them. Father tells Margaret in "Song of Orpheus" that Vincent embraced life. So, I have never understood why he would suddenly regret what he was when he met Catherine.

Perhaps it was her reaction to him, although I have always felt it was more from the horror of her own disfigurement. If Vincent had stopped at "I never regretted what I am". I would have thought it was to ease Catherine's misery of being disfigured, because he understood what it was to look different---to be different.

Yet he adds “… until now." Perhaps, he was wishing that if he looked normal—or could be accepted Above---he could be there for her when she returned to her home, to encourage and strengthen her as a friend would. He knows that he cannot do that and it saddens him. He cares for her.

Perhaps the Bond was manifesting itself and feeling strangely connected to the stranger from Above, Vincent knew the sadness to come when she would leave him behind, as others had. He says later in an episode that Catherine had opened the world to him. I am sure that during those 10 days together Catherine talked of the world Above, answering Vincent's many questions, feeding his curiosity, reminding him of experiences that he would never have. Perhaps, after Devin left, Vincent never connected with another person or had a best friend. Someone from Above must have been different and unique to Vincent, perhaps even something forbidden. Father wished to keep Vincent safe from anything Above. The world of Above was dangerous, I think Catherine was perceived that way in Father's eyes.

****

Encouragement

Vincent: I never regretted what I am…until now………I was born and I survived.

Vincent returns and stands in the doorway with his hood drawn up. I think he may have assumed Catherine was afraid of him at first. But, he is drawn back to her, somehow knowing her despair is more for herself and not because of him. Vincent feels responsible for this woman. He brought her Below, helped nurse her back to health, and he will see her safely home, whatever the personal cost to himself or their (brief) friendship.

Vincent tells her he does not regret or despair over who and what he is. He was born this way and it is all he knows. He is content with what life has brought him, no matter how difficult and limited. If there is any regret, it is that he knows he must take her back to her home, her life, and her world, and not be a part of her continued recovery there.

Catherine: Tell me it’s a nightmare. That it didn’t happen, that it can’t be…

Vincent: It’s not a nightmare. It happened…and you’re alive. Catherine, you survived…and what you endured will make you stronger and better.

Catherine: I don’t have your strength…I don’t know how to do it.

Vincent: You have the strength, Catherine…You do…I know you.

Catherine’s face is a myriad of emotions—fear, anger, and hopelessness. Catherine wishes her attack was all a terrible nightmare. She is almost angry that it is not and it is not fair that she now has to face this challenge in her life.

I love the way Vincent bends down in front of her. He is eye to eye with her and he gives the most important words of encouragement he can give to send her on her own path of recovery alone. She has survived. She will be a stronger and better person. She has an untapped inner strength and he knows she will endure. He has faith in her. This gives her courage beyond her own strength.

*****

Acceptance

I like the moment when Catherine’s thoughts turn from herself and toward this mysterious wise leonine man kneeling before her. Her whole expression changes and she gives Vincent the wonderful gift of her acceptance and friendship. She pushes his hood back to look at him in all his wondrous uniqueness. There is no fear or repulsiveness in her smile and lingering gaze. She will always be his friend.

I love the way Vincent gasps as Catherine reaches for his hood to push it back. He knows her intent, but is startled by it and it frightens him. His eyes dart from side to side, seeking escape from so close a scrutiny, but remains still and lets her do as she wills. His blue eyes meet hers shyly and he can see the trust and acceptance in her eyes. I think Vincent lost his heart to Catherine at this moment.

*****

The Journey Home

Vincent: “This is where you go out.”

You can almost hear Catherine’s heart sink as Vincent dumps her clothes in her lap. .” He tells her simply, “It’s time.” Going home to face her father and her former life is easier said then done.

Vincent takes her home through his world of forgotten tunnels, twisting staircases, and dark caverns, and along the way they must pass other tunnel-dwellers. I noticed the curiosity was on Vincent’s companion, rather then the familiar lion-man. Catherine is shy about her ruined face as she endures the people’s stares, but she loses this when she and Vincent are alone.

I like the scene where they cross the steam pipe. Vincent gracefully leaps from one to the other. Catherine is not as brave, but calls for his help. She reaches for his waiting clawed hand without hesitation or thought. <smile>

Finally, their journey ends and I love Catherine’s wonder and surprise that they are in the basement of her apartment building. Just as there are streets and maps Above, there are “streets” and “maps” of Below that correspond.

*****

Parting:

Catherine: Your secret is safe with me. I would never betray your trust.

Vincent: I know…I knew it from the beginning, when you trusted me.

Catherine: What can I say to you?

The couple suddenly realizes that they are about to go their separate ways, go on with their separate lives. A deep friendship had formed over the course of 10 days and this interlude must be remembered as a special moment in their lives for eternity. I am quite certain that both know they will never see each other again.

Emotions well up and Catherine embraces Vincent to thank him for all he has done for her. Her simple hug is almost more then Vincent can endure emotionally and physically. He is deeply touched by her embrace and he dares---for a moment---to hold a “dream” in his arms.

Voices from Above. The couple moves apart. As Catherine assesses the danger, Vincent slips away back into the shadows of the tunnels. Catherine finds herself alone---armed only with her courage and Vincent’s belief in her. She raises her hood, squares her shoulders, and returns to her world.

*****

Tidbit: According to my sources, the "embrace" was the first BATB scene shot. This was the first scene RP and LH did together. I think they picked up the emotion of the moment and grasped the characters beautifully.

*****

Catherine’s dream

What trials and tribulations did Catherine have to endure when she returned Above? She had to face her father, her boyfriend Tom, the police questions, and endure the doctors. It all becomes a tumbled, twisted mix of memories, thoughts, fears, and truths in her drug-induced dream. With her father, money is no object---it is the best doctors, a shopping spree, and a paid vacation for his little girl. But, did he ever ask what happened to her? The scene changes and the nightmare of the attack is relived. And then the scene alters again, and her boyfriend, Tom, who loves perfection, pities her and sees her as a tainted beauty and “a loser.” Her family, friends, and colleagues all stand around and laugh at her misfortune. There is no hope for her. No way out. Trapped. But then she turns, and sees Vincent standing there strong and golden. Their eyes met and his silent nod of love and encouragement is all that Catherine needs. She will endure.

*****

Aloneness

Catherine: You can read me the last chapter of “Great Expectations.”

It is a little scene but I find it sad. Catherine has come out of her surgery. The doctor gives her empty, practiced, professional platitudes. He says if there is anything she wants to share just tell him, and then he leaves her alone before she can reply. How alone she is. Where is her father, her mother, her boyfriend, or her friends?

The same with Vincent’s climb to the building roof to gaze wistfully at a world he cannot be a part of ---her world.

*****

Eight Months Later

Catherine has recovered from her ordeal. The road has not been an easy one. Catherine has made changes in her life. She has to prove herself to her new colleagues that she is more then just a “shopaholic uptown” girl. I love Catherine’s comeback when Edie finds her assault picture. “It’s an old picture.” and an “old” Cathy.

Catherine gets serious about learning to protect herself by taking lessons with Isaac Stubbs. She learns “New York City Street Fighting.” (At this point, she does not know Vincent will come to protect her.) She finds primal, savage survival instinct within herself. Also, I noticed that she has learned to use a handgun (in the nightside stand.)

Catherine dumps Tom. The man’s ego does not want to believe it, but Catherine is letting him go.

One of the first things Catherine does that I think is very brave, is track down the intended victim of her assault. She has placed herself into a position to help Carol and bring the men who attacked them to justice.

And, Catherine has never forgotten the extraordinary man who helped her find the strength and courage within herself---every time she crosses a steam grate—she fondly remembers her golden leonine knight. <smile>

*****

The Bond

Vincent: “…but I cannot forget her. We are still connected…”

This conversation between father and son reveals Vincent’s gift of empathy. Vincent can sense or “read” other people’s emotions on an extraordinary level. Somehow, Vincent’s connection to Catherine is different and stronger because even with distance Vincent can still sense her emotions.

Father is both amazed and deeply concerned. Can this be because Vincent loves this woman? This unrequited relationship will only bring his son unhappiness. It is obvious that even now, Father is unable to stop the inevitable---his son has fallen in love.

I think Vincent has fallen in love. It has been eight months since he has seen Catherine, but everyday her presence in his heart haunts him. There are new feelings for Catherine that he has never felt before and it is heightened by his empathic link to her. The emotions are as intoxicating as they are forbidden. Catherine’s brief presence in his life, those 10 short days together, shined a bright, warm light upon his dark aloneness. She has profoundly touched a deep part of his soul and it has changed him. Vincent dares to dream of “impossibilities” even though he knows he should not dream it. He has no choice but to follow his heart. When he can no longer resist the pull toward her---he must go see her.

*****

Tangent: I wonder if this is the first time Vincent has fallen in love? We know nothing of his past. On the other hand, Father seems to be speaking of a knowledge that love will only bring Vincent unhappiness. Maybe Vincent has loved before. Or maybe, Vincent is forbidden to love because of who and what he is. Hum….

*****

The Reunion

After eight long months, Catherine discovers Vincent has come to visit her. She is elated to see him and she rushes to embrace him---almost, to prove that he is really real. He actually hugs her back!

Vincent: Your face…

Catherine: "They fixed it."

Vincent did not expect to find Catherine’s face “fixed” of her scars. This is an awkward moment for him. I am sure that she is more beautiful then he could remember and it will make this parting even more difficult. On the other hand, I wonder if her ruined face in some way made her more like him, someone he could easily relate too and now, she was beyond his experience. (Since we do not know Vincent very well, we can only wonder how he feels about his “otherness.”)

*****

Tangent: “They fixed it.” I know Catherine was referring to her face. However, it struck me that, in many ways, her father, boyfriend, and doctor wanted to fix everything in Catherine's life and deny that the attack even happened. The quicker it was put behind them all, the easier it would be to forget. They all wanted the "old" Cathy back.

*****

There is so much that both needed to share with each other. Catherine tells Vincent how hard the recovery has been and the choice to take her life in a new, fulfilling direction. She is learning to be strong. In her eyes, you can see that she owes all her personal growth to his simple words of encouragement. She has not changed who she is, but rather changed the priorities in her life. Her life has purpose.

Vincent attempts to explain the connection between them, the Bond. He does not have the words, but wants her to know he will always be with her in spirit. He laments that he will not see her again because there is no acceptance of him in her world and, although, he will not forget her, he must forget about the “dream” of loving her and being a part of her life. Catherine is not happy with this declaration, but sadly understands it.

Catherine cannot bear to have him leave her and I don’t think Vincent really wanted to go. They must have talked and read until the dawn had to chase him back into the shadows. I think they once again said a last good-bye.

******

Vincent: …There is no place for me in it. I know what I am. Your world is filled with frightened people and I remind them of what they are most afraid of.

Catherine: Their own ignorance.

Vincent: Their aloneness.

What does Vincent mean? It is easy to see that most people Above would fear Vincent because they tend to fear what they do not understand. They would quickly judge the surface, his “Otherness”—the lion face, the teeth and claws, his extraordinary strength and deem him a danger to society and science. He is endangered by their ignorance. In this thought, Catherine is correct.

But, I think Vincent skips this surface reason and speaks of something deeper---if people are willing to look deeper within their own souls. He is someone so truly and profoundly different, so “Other” and so one-of-a-kind that he represents how alone people are in their own minds and souls. He would remind them that each and every one of them are different and unique within themselves. They spend all their lives searching for connection with others, acceptance and belonging, many find a “soulmate”---and many do not.

L.W had a wonderful insightful post. She states, “Vincent is the most alone of all of us, who are all alone anyway---and HE is the one who finds a way to be connected to another beyond what everyone else has. He is the one who DOES actually feel what another person is feeling, almost hears her thoughts from inside her mind…” I had never thought of the Bond in this light. Very true.

*****

The Beast Revealed

As fate would have it, Vincent and Catherine do meet again. Vincent cannot deny or ignore the cry of Catherine’s fear. He races to her side, probably not knowing what he was going to encounter or what he was going to do. All he knew was that he needed to get to Catherine, be by her side and protect her.

Catherine does her best to protect herself, using what she had learned from Isaac Stubbs and trying to think ahead of the criminals after her. She does her best, makes a few mistakes, but puts up a good fight. Unfortunately, no amount of fighting skill is any match for a bullet.

I think she was just as surprised as the henchmen were to see Vincent come crashing through the house---a huge, wild, roaring, terrifying lion. Vincent rips into Catherine’ attackers, mauls them. He does not stop until the danger is past. His attack is quick and frightening. When it is over, Vincent turns to see Catherine’s horror and disbelief in her eyes. Vincent slumps back against the stairs in shame of his own instinctive actions. What will Catherine think of him now? Her gentle friend has a wild, primal side.

I have no idea what Catherine is thinking. Her first concern is that she must get Vincent back to safety. She grabs his bloody hands without hesitation—with acceptance and understanding. “We can’t stay here.” I think Catherine was horrified, but knew the actions were justified as self-defense of her. Vincent risked his life to protect her the only way he knew how. Her gratitude outweighs her fear or disgust.

*****

Parting:

Catherine: I owe you everything…everything.

Vincent: You owe me nothing. I’m a part of you, Catherine, just as you are a part of me. Wherever you go, wherever I am, I’m with you.”

Catherine owes her life to this wonderful, noble leonine man. Somehow, they are connected to each other. She cannot begin to understand it any more then Vincent can. She is just grateful that he will be in her life.

Vincent does not know what the connection, the Bond, with this strong, courageous, beautiful woman will mean for his life. This new facet of his empathic connection will have to be carefully explored and understood. He knows that it is now his duty to keep her safe, he is her guardian and protector.

Vincent: Good-bye

She hugs him again---and he hugs her back! <sigh>

Catherine: For now.

I love the “For now.” Catherine knows they will meet again.

I also love the way that they walk away and then turn at the same time to look at each other. This Bond is going to be fascinating to watch unfold and deepen.

*****

The pilot is an incredible and satisfying opening to a show with great promise and depth. I wonder where they are going to take the story from here?

*****

Additional thoughts:

These were the first questions asked during Episode Discussion in 2002:

1. Who has changed the most in this episode: Vincent or Catherine? In what way?

The changes in Catherine’s life are the ones presented. She is a high society girl going through the aimless motions of her sheltered, pampered life. We quickly sense her underlying dissatisfaction with her life. I think she is looking for meaning in her life, but not sure how to change.

The attack shattered her life. She had to work through her fears of the unknown and learn to trust again. I do not think it was easy for her to trust that voice in the dark and her unknown whereabouts. Yet she had to cling to something, find a foundation to stand on to rebuild her life. Vincent's encouragement, and his belief in her strengths, gave Catherine the courage to become a better person. Without Vincent's intervention, she would have remained a shattered woman (Alternate Catherine in "Remember Love").

We did not get to see all that Catherine went through during those months of recovery, but I know it must have taken a lot of soul searching and courage to make the changes that she did. I am sure those around her did not make it easy for her. I think she found strengths within herself that she already had, but had not yet tapped.

We really have no idea what Vincent was like before he met Catherine and we do not know what has changed in him now that he has met her. Did he change dramatically or subtly? I think he remained the wonderful soul that we know---he is kind, gentle, compassionate, and loves everyone deeply. I think he is comfortable with himself and has resigned himself to the limitations of his life. Even in this first episode, I got the feeling Father had a heavy hand in shaping Vincent's self-image. Vincent also seems convinced---probably heavily influenced by Father also--- that no one could, or should love him and that he should not even think in that way.

If anything changed in Vincent, it was his heart. Something in Catherine touched him deeply, profoundly, and he knew he would never be the same. What gave him a dream of love? Why the bond? Why did he know he had no choice but to follow his heart, even if it could destroy him? I do not have any answers. Perhaps, he was searching for meaning in his own life.

2. What parallels from the classic fairytale is evident in this modern retelling?

I found this quote from the prologue of Beauty by Susan Wilson (a modern BATB type tale) that perfectly sums up Beauty and the Beast in our case. “Unlike the fairytale, it isn't the Beauty who needs to discover the man inside the Beast, but the Beast himself...There are no physical transmutations, only intellectual ones; the only magic mirror that of the soul in love." ---Harris Beliefleur

3. How do you perceive the central conflict to this story?

It is the setting for changes. Changes in two people from two very different worlds. Catherine has opened a new chapter in her life, a life where she now has a purpose: to help others. Vincent's life has been opened to dreams, love, and possibilities that he dares to believe can be his---if only for a time. They have found themselves bound together, and now they must figure out where to go from here.

*****

About the tunnels feeling primitive in the first episode:

I give technical license to the differences in the pilot and regular episodes. I do not think a lot of details were carved out in stone for the pilot and they used "temporary" sets or actual locations rather than more permanent sets, especially for Above shots. Catherine's apartment changed (hotel room for the pilot, maybe?). The DA's offices were actually the BATB production offices in the pilot. Details to Father's chamber and Vincent's chamber seemed to not change much, a few furniture additions and subtractions only. There is no point in making several expensive sets until a show is actually picked up for a season.

BTW: Catherine's apartment was always changing by adding and subtracting the closet and a bathroom. Art often changed and the apartment did seem to get a complete make-over halfway though the season. To this day, I have never figured out her kitchen. LOL

*****

The trek to Catherine's apartment seemed to get shorter or change:

I do not think that the length of the trek had changed. We just did not see it. Catherine was still recovering from her attack and she would have been weak from it, I do not think Vincent would have made her walk any further then she had too. On the other hand, it did seem to become shorter. I personally think that it takes a good 10 to 15-minute walk underground from Catherine's basement to the community hub. However, we must remember that the “ways change”, so the journey would shorten or lengthen accordingly.

*****

Do you think this is the first time Vincent has had to kill?

I don't. I think he has been called upon before to protect his home and those Below--he knowingly went to defend them. Being summoned by Catherine's fear must have been a new experience--to defend at all cost. Did he have a conscious choice in his actions? I wonder what it felt like to him; to have Catherine’s fear cut through him. Hum…

*****

There was a bit of discussion about “Was Catherine raped?”

No. I do not think Catherine was raped. The police report only mentioned “aggravated assault.”

*****

P.C. asked: Anyone have any ideas as to why it takes Vincent eight months to visit Catherine?

I think it took eight months, because they did not expect to see each other ever again. Catherine had no way to contact Vincent. Though, I suppose she might have revisited the threshold under her apartment building just to convince herself Vincent and the Tunnels were real---and hoped.

Vincent probably would have never visited her again. She would have just become another person he helped---accept for the Bond. He was the one that needed to see her again---and then only "one more time." Or maybe, Vincent talked about seeing her and let Father talk him out of it for months. I don't know.

The Tunnels seem very secretive and closed, only known by a very few Helpers. I would suppose that you would chance upon them once and never again. Unless, years later they were in need of some service you could provide.

*****

The timeline: Eight months?

The timeline: I, too, must take the show's TPTB to task— April plus eight months is December. Halloween (Masques) is not in January the last time I checked. If they had said five or six months, it may have made more sense. Perhaps not.

I do not know how long it takes for plastic surgery to heal. And, I do not know how long it takes to find a job in a DA's office.

So, I guess it is left to us fans to find some way to "explain" it away. I choose to ignore the obvious error. Others have questioned the span of time and made it two years. Does it really matter? LOL

*****

What are your "ideas" on Vincent's origins? Do we really what to know?

Part of me wants to know Vincent’s origins and the other part does not. To solve the mystery of him would somehow ruin the wondrous magical enchantment of Vincent. And I think that any explanation would always lack in its satisfaction. However, that does not keep any of us from happily speculating. <smile>

IMHO, I have “ideas”, just as Vincent has “ideas.” He would be curious about his origins and would have pursued answers from a scientific and medical POV. He is the son of a doctor and has probably studied about many subjects in the medical and scientific fields. Vincent is the genetic blend of a man and a lion. He possesses both the intelligence and humanity of a human and the instincts and acute senses of a lion. He would have studied human and lion nature and anatomy and compare them in terms of himself. Only he alone, would know how his two natures work within him.

As for how he came into being---IMHO, as a mystery of nature or a scientific experiment---I don’t really want to know and I think Vincent does not really want to know. I think he has suspicions but does not want to think any further into the ramifications of such thoughts—like me. He was born---and he survived.

*****

Two Cents---

Midnight Rose

CABB Episode Discussion Group posting: 2/2/2002

Final Edit: 9/26/2006

The “Two Cents” essays are the sole property of the author, Midnight Rose, and are not to be duplicated or shared in any way, shape, or form except with the express permission of the author.

 Terrible Savior

I did not see TS until the summer reruns of the original season, so I have always struggled with forgetting the context of future episodes when looking at this installment. This is the episode that followed the pilot. "Once Upon a Time…" established the characters and, now, as the story progresses, we will learn more about Catherine and Vincent and his world.

*****

What do we know so far?

Catherine has overcome a life-altering attack. She has met an extraordinary leonine man named Vincent. Eight months had past without any contact other then the 10 days of her recovery. Vincent reappears on her balcony and tells her they are "connected." Catherine goes about doing her DA job and winds up nearly dying except that, miraculously, Vincent showed up. She watched Vincent killed three men in her defense.

What do we know about Vincent? What do we know about Catherine? Not much. We do not know what Vincent does, what his life is like, or how he spends his time. We do not know what kind of DA investigator Catherine is going to be, what her job entails, what her social life is like, or how she feels about Vincent.

The story of these two characters is only beginning to unfold.

*****

Catherine:

Catherine does not know Vincent very well. He is a man of contrasts and contradictions. She knows of his compassion and gentleness, but she has also seen his dark, beastly side and the death he is able to render with his claws. She has witnessed what Vincent is capable of and, as an officer of the courts, I think she is still struggling to legally justify his actions even though they were to save her life.

When faced with the reality of a Subway Slasher, she cannot help but wonder if Vincent is involved. Her doubt (more then her fear) of him is understandable. Catherine does not know much about Vincent’s life and his activities. She is just beginning to discern his character. She has to investigate him just as she must investigate Jason.

*****

Tangent: I think that given Catherine’s own attack and her ongoing recovery; trusting in other people is now more difficult. Trust must be given unconditionally, without doubts or second thoughts. When trust is broken, it is not easily repaired. Trust takes time to regain once it has been lost. I wonder if Catherine’s mistrust is an internal defense. She has given her trust too quickly in the past and now she is more guarded. Hum….

*****

Catherine’s thoughts, doubts, and fears are exposed when she talks to Isaac Stubbs and almost confirmed by the cleaning lady. How do you ask someone you know, and are emotionally involved with, that you suspect him? What do you do if they are involved? What if Vincent is a vigilante? How is Catherine going to deal with her conscience and her relationship with this man both personally and legally? If Vincent is innocent, what damage will this cause to their friendship? Catherine’s mind and the circumstantial evidence are at odds with her heart and her gut feelings. Somewhere in the depths of her heart she knows Vincent is not that person.

Then, why can’t Catherine shake her lingering doubts? Why can’t Catherine, when she comes face to face with Vincent, keep herself from stepping back in the involuntary reaction to her fear of him. Is it a subconscious fear of him? As Vincent says, "Must you hear the words, before you trust?"

I suppose Catherine has worked herself up with her conflicting thoughts. Vincent is kind and gentle---yet he can be violent. She has nothing to disprove the circumstantial evidence or witness accounts. She has tried to contact Vincent and he is avoiding her---could this be because of his guilt? She dreams that Vincent attacks her—should she fear him? Does she have reason too? She has just been found lost wandering in the tunnels (probably lost for several hours) and now, she is face to face with Vincent and she is upset with him.

Even as Vincent speaks of his innocence, I am not sure if Catherine is completely listening. I can see her sizing him up, remembering the killings, considering the possibility of his strength and claws, considering what if---and at that moment he steps forward and she gasps and steps back. She did not mean to, she apologizes, but it is too late. The damage is done. Her actions have spoken louder then words in Vincent’s mind and heart. She cannot yet give Vincent her unconditional trust.

*****

Tangent: Hum…. Catherine’s dreams (In the Pilot and TS) seem to be a plot device to show her innermost thoughts. They speak of her internal disquiet as she works out an issue. The first dream is fed by her conflicting questions about Vincent. The second dream is almost a relief in its revelation--- her heart convinced her mind that the Slasher is not Vincent. She must then figure out who is the vigilante. Who else fits the profile---Jason.

*****

Vincent:

Vincent is haunted by the whispers of Catherine’s doubts and fears. Somehow, through the Bond, he knows that her fears are directed at him. It is apparent that Vincent is aware of the news and headlines from the World Above and quickly makes the sad, but obvious connection.

He does not want Catherine to fear him, yet Vincent cannot face that possibility coming from this woman he loves, so he avoids her. He fears the confrontation just as much as she does. On the other hand, Vincent must wonder if Catherine should be afraid of him, he is well aware of the death rendered by his hands, his claws. He cannot forget that guilt and shame. Vincent is beginning to understand what the "call" of her fear does to him. Should he be afraid?

Catherine’s doubts, fears and unspoken accusations cut him to the core of his soul. You can see the terrible hurt in his eyes and the tension in his body. This confrontation is so painful to endure. Vincent stands rigid and still, he steps forward to comfort her fears. "I would never hurt you…" Instead, Catherine backs away from him and he is crushed. He cannot contain the hurt and emotion and must move to harness his need to react to the stress. Vincent paces and raises his arm to strike at something, but fights for and regains control.

*****

Tangent: I never realized that Vincent aimed to strike AT something---the lampshade. His raised hand makes sense now. (Thank you, Tallulah, for pointing that out.) Until now, his violent reaction did not make much sense to me because we never saw him do such an action again. I suppose this reaction was there to remind Catherine (and us) that Vincent could be dangerous.

NL pointed out that Vincent is acting very human. He is "a person with physical expressions" like any one of us. In later episodes, he banged a book or his fist on the desk when arguing with Father and he has often raised his voice in argument or in command. Both of these actions are made all the more powerful and intense because Vincent is so controlled, reserved, quiet and soft spoken. TM remarked, "It is in those moments that we do see Vincent as a complete person." I agree.

*****

Evidence of the vigilante using the old tunnels is a clue to the case that Vincent cannot keep from Catherine. He returns to her balcony with his important message. He seems resigned to endure whatever welcome he is to receive.

I wonder what Vincent is thinking as he climbs to see her. I wonder what he feels from their Bond. I have to wonder if the Bond becomes stronger and clearer the closer he gets. Vincent must somehow notice that the bond is no longer tainted with a cloud of distrust.

*****

Reconciliation:

Catherine is afraid that her fear and distrust has ruined their friendship. She had wounded him deeply with her doubts and mistrust. She is relieved to see Vincent again. Catherine wastes no time in asking for his forgiveness. She has been a fool not to trust him unconditionally. She was foolish not to trust her heart. (This is a milestone in their developing relationship---trust.)

Vincent accepts her apology as if he has already long forgiven her and understands what drives her fears. It is not his nature to hold onto hurt. It does sadden me that Vincent blames himself for her distrust because he feels it is a result of his obvious differences and violent actions. As much as it pains him to have people fear him, Vincent does not blame them for that fear.

I love how Catherine gathers up his hands during their exchange. This action symbolizing she is not afraid of his hands or of him. Sweet, subtle moment.

*****

Vincent’s fear of discovery:

If Vincent has one fear, it is the fear of discovery. It has been a miracle that he has not been discovered by the world Above, even though he walks the shadows unafraid. If someone decided to really make a point to find him and hunt him, they might have a chance of catching him. His exchange with Father about the innocent child’s game of "hide and seek" is a metaphor for his belief that there is truly no safe place for him.

*****

The Myth

Jason to Catherine: "The city has its own myths. We are so rational, so sophisticated, so cynical that we still need our gods and demons, our heroes and villains……Some terrible fierce creature who haunts the dark places; something with a face of a demon, the soul of an angel."

I know that the tunnel community has a patrolled perimeter, but beyond that there are mile upon mile of tunnels, many with other inhabitants. I would think that with Vincent's extensive wanderings Below and Above that rumors of him would abound. They may never of have seen him or just caught the slightest glimpse of him, but I am sure that his roar was heard on occasion, especially if Vincent happened to come upon a criminal situation.

Jason: "The story, the demon protector, the angel from Below, the city needed him. Frighten people need symbols to make them feel safe. So many people hurting... frightened more every day, day after day, year after year. I began to doubt, to question whether one man could make a difference, but no longer…The deaths weren’t important the legend was. It’s time for them to be afraid now…Legends never make mistakes, they never miss, or stumble or strike out in panic and they never hurt those who don’t deserve to be hurt. The problem is men do all those things."

As has obvious heard the street legend of the "demon protector." He probably grew up on its myth. He still believes in it. When he found those hidden tunnels under his building, his imagination ran wild, and the possible truth of the "legend" was renewed in his mind.

Jason’s initial noble desire was to protect the weak and hopeless in his community. He taught people to stand up and to defend themselves. But it is obvious that he felt that law enforcement was not doing enough. He was frustrated with "the system". He wanted to do more. But, what could one man do?

Jason needed something to believe in, something---or someone to do what he as a "Protector" could not do. He needed a powerful symbol---something unquestioned, unstoppable, untouchable, and incorruptible. He had to become something more. Jason took a turn down a dark path, the wrong path; he went from being a protector to an avenger. He chose to use the myth of the "demon protector" to become a vigilante, in essence going against everything he preached in the light of day. He was drawn in and corrupted by the absolute power that his "alter-ego" gave him. Jason soon felt that even he was above the law.

Then along came Cathy Chandler bringing with her the threat of the "system" Jason was fighting against. It was pure luck that he stumbled upon her secret and the truth that his myth, his legend, was real. I wonder what Jas thought. I wonder what Jason would have wanted from his "demon protector" come to life. I have often wondered what he and Vincent would have done or what the two men would have discussed if their confrontation had been more civilized.

Or maybe, Jason was truly afraid of the "demon protector." His conscience was not clear and therefore, his incorruptible myth could---would exact his punishment upon this corruptible man. Jason ran. At the Whispering Bridge, Jason finds himself cornered. He turns and fights. Maybe, it is self-defense---maybe it is a battle of let "the true legend" win. I don’t know.

TM, I love your insight into why Jas did not kill Vincent. "I think Jason realized that HERE was his myth, his god/demon and he couldn’t kill it. Because if he killed it, what was left to believe in?…He still NEEDED to believe. I agree. I think this is the reason more then a simple redeeming act of mercy on Jason's part which Vincent and Catherine speak of later. Hum…

*****

Is Vincent a vigilante?

Vigilantes go looking for trouble. Trouble always found Vincent.

"Even the gentlest man has a demon locked inside of him." Vincent wonders aloud if he is truly any different then this vigilante. I am sure that in his travels Above, he has engaged in "intervening" on behalf of the safety of others. He protects those he loves and the helpless he encounters. He protects Catherine at all cost. I have always thought of Vincent as a reluctant hero rather than a vigilante or avenger. He knows his role as a protector of his home and those he loves. When called upon, Vincent goes out to do what is necessary to be done. The personal cost is high for him. He knows what the outcome is going to be. He carries the guilt of his actions no matter how justified.

*****

Tangent: In episodes where Vincent comes close to crossing the line between protector and avenger, at the last minute the circumstances change and he is able to avoid the final avenging decision or action. For example: Jas in TS, Mitch in Beast Within, and Paracelsus in The Alchemist. The deaths of Mitch's men and the men in China Moon were more of a preemptive strike. (Maybe???)

*****

Other thoughts

I agree with Taptap’s insight that where Jason was corrupted by power, Vincent’s soul is not so easily corrupted or seduced. Vincent is "strong within himself, about what is good and what is not, that he’s never in danger of crossing the line." In fact, he is overly cautious in every aspect of his life.

**

Did anyone find it strange that Vincent did not feel Catherine's fear until he heard her voice? He was distracted by the music. I think the bond was still a tentative thread at this time and that Vincent had to concentrate on Catherine to feel her emotions.

**

Catherine, Edie, and the vending machine scene is cute.

**

Personally, I did not quite like the ending to the episode. Jason did show mercy in choosing not to kill his "myth." However, I do not see anything noble about his actions, certainly not enough to compare him to King Arthur. Jason started out on a passionate mission and lost his way. It is sad.

Perhaps Vincent is right----<shrug>

******

Two Cents—

Midnight Rose

Siege

No Way Down

JS summed up the episode perfectly: to contrast the “inhumanity that man is capable of directing against his fellow man. He may look like a beast, but he is what we all strive to become.” So true.

*****

Father:

This is the first meeting of Father and Catherine without Vincent present to act as a buffer or to hold Father's tongue. Father rips into her. He lets her know where he stands. "Your relationship with my son is a tragic mistake." Since he is unable to get this point through to his son, he tries it on "the girl".

First, his son falls in love with this woman and a bond is formed. Second, this woman breaks his son's heart by falling in love with another man. Now, his son is lost Above, injured and in a dangerous (and "forbidden" ---perhaps per Father) part of town. Why? Because he was with this woman. Catherine is nothing but trouble as far as Father is concerned. The sooner she is out of Vincent's life the better.

Despite, his hard feelings toward Catherine, I think Father is forever grateful that she has found Vincent and helps him back home. She does the same in "Nor Iron Bars a Cage." It will take awhile before Father's feelings toward Catherine begin to thaw.

*****

Catherine:

Why would she go meet a witness alone? I think this shows how naïve she is about the streets and this puts her in unnecessary danger. I wonder if this is part of her effort to prove herself in the DA's office. I find myself relieved when Vincent shows up, and so is Catherine. Unfortunately, this gets Vincent hurt. I wish I could say that Catherine learns an important lesson about her responsibility of keeping herself safe, so that Vincent is safe, but this is not voiced again until late in the 2S.

Her guilt for getting him hurt and her fear for Vincent safety is on her face and we know she will not stop looking for him until he is found. I think she was very brave to seek Father's help and stood up well under his harsh words. It was good to see her trust Isaac too. I think when Catherine says that she knows Vincent is near and knows that he is not dead, we are beginning to see the bond manifest itself in her. Yet, Catherine has not learned how to recognize the voice of the bond or listen for it and, therefore, cannot find Vincent by “feel.” She is tracking him using Father’s locations and following the evidence of Vincent’s trail. Also, a lot of luck.

*****

Tangent: I join CS in her observation and agree--- It is important to add that Catherine did not save Vincent in this episode. She was always one step behind him; she caught up with him at the door of his world. Vincent, despite his injuries, uses his instincts and knowledge of the city (once the security guard told him where he was)---and a lot of luck---to save himself.

*****

Vincent:

I never noticed until the other night while watching the episode that Vincent was standing in a shop doorway when he meets up with Catherine. An alley would have given more cover. I wonder if this was to point out how exposed Vincent was in this part of town. Despite the danger to himself, he is there to protect Catherine.

When Vincent’s senses Catherine go by in the cab, his reaction I conclude as “She is alive and Ok.” I don’t think he was sure that Catherine was safe and unharmed. He now knew she was looking for him. She was so close but so far out of his reach. Vincent knew he could not count on Catherine finding him, so he was still on his own.

I find it interesting that Vincent remains silent in front of the aggressive gang members, but speaks to Howie. (He also remains silent in "Nor Iron Bars.” ) He refuses the security guard's help, but accepts Lucy's. I think his empathic abilities are at work here, that Vincent intuitively knows whom he can trust and who he cannot. Vincent is deeply saddened, when Howie gives up his life to save his. It must have been frustrating for Vincent to be unable to protect Howie too. Vincent could do nothing but stand there, hurt, blind, and exhausted.

*****

The ending was rather abrupt. Vincent has made it through the door and towards home. Catherine finally catches up to him. Taking her place by his side, she breathes her relief that she has found him, and that he is safe, although injured. Catherine was never giving up her frantic search until she found him and was reunited with him.

Father, I think, shows up at one of the possible entrances to the Tunnels Vincent might use. He would have been prepared to wait there in hopes of intercepting his injured son. He arrives, very relieved Vincent has found his way home. (I wonder if he had a hard time dislodging Catherine from Vincent’s side. <smile>)

*****

Lucy and Howie:

Both of these characters are not shown much love or care from their fellow man. Lucy is “used” by others because of her “profession.” The members of the gang abuse simple-minded, child-like Howie—he is only tolerated as the “muscle.” Yet despite the “inhumanity” around them, Lucy and Howie do not lose their compassion for others. More importantly, they see the “humanity” in Vincent and help him despite the danger to themselves.

I wonder what became of Lucy? I wonder if her brief meeting with Vincent changed her life? I wonder if Vincent ever went back to thank her?

*****

What did Isaac think? He trusts Catherine and Catherine trusts him not to ask too many questions. Do you think Isaac ever asked Catherine about Vincent? Did Catherine ever tell him? Hum…

*****

Extra Thoughts:

TM: “What do you think the snow globe symbolized in this episode?

I have to agree with the other posts: innocence, innocence lost, sacrifice. Hum…

TM: “Do you think Catherine was following Vincent using her thin thread of the bond or do you think it was all using her investigative talents?”

Catherine did not show any signs of being aware of the bond until "Shades of Grey". Even though she was now aware of it and the bond was working within her from the beginning, she has not learned to recognize it, understand it, or trust it. After talking to Father and knowing where Vincent was headed, Catherine could put her investigating skills to work. She was hot on Vincent’s trail, but one step behind all the way.


TM: “After No Way Down, do you think Vincent suffered any emotional trauma besides the physical trauma he endured? And if you do, how would it have manifested itself?”

I think there was some emotional trauma. Vincent was faced with one of his greatest fears--discovery Above and the fear of being injured Above. Vincent knows the dangers each time he leaves the tunnels, but he needs to be free for a few stolen hours. I think Vincent craves the fresh air and to roam Above. The freedom of Above is worth the risk.
However, I am sure that Vincent's first return Above would give him pause. He would be extra vigilant and walk where he knew it was safest. Going Above is a fear he can easily conquer. (It did not stop him in “Masques”.)

I am sure Father sternly reminded Vincent of how correct he was about Above. The world Above was too dangerous for his son just like he had always said. Vincent heard the warning, but did not let it stop him.

*****

Off Topic:

DK’s comment: “More times than not I think that Vincent "beasting out" is just one side of a complicated personality. But truly not a split personality.”

MR’s answer: I agree. I never felt that Vincent had a split personality, more of a complicated one. He has a man's intelligence and an animal's instinct. A man talks and reasons his way out of a situation. An animal either fights or flees. Vincent is a protector of others, but he also has a deeply ingrained sense of self-preservation at all costs. He is constantly at war with the two sides of his nature. Both sides color all his responses.

I think Vincent has been conditioned to fear his animal responses to situations. These responses are not considered human and he is ashamed when he lets them loose. If he would just accept and embrace the duality of his nature, he would find peace.

(Am I making sense? Do you know what I mean? My thoughts never come out right when I type.)

*****

Way off topic: Why do we love to see Vincent come to Catherine’s rescue? And vice-versa?

I agree that it is fun to see Catherine getting herself in trouble just to see Vincent come to her rescue. Some fans love to see Vincent “beast out.” It was part of the excitement of the series. Violence-hurt-comfort story lines is the stuff of romantic stories, I suppose.

I also have to remind myself that I was 20 when the series was on. I was different then, young, innocent, and naive. Do I have a more mature outlook on things? I would hope so. Do I look at the different aspects of BATB with a more realistic, critical eye? I suppose.

But believe me, I still love the series just the way it was. Vincent can come to Catherine's rescue anytime.

*****

Two Cents

Midnight Rose

CABB Episode Discussion Group posting: 4/4/2002

Final Edit: 12/29/2006

The “Two Cents” essays are the sole property of the author, Midnight Rose, and are not to be duplicated or shared in any way, shape, or form except with the express permission of the author.

Masques

“Masques” is one of my favorite episodes. I love the idea of Vincent being able to appear Above in safety. His conversations with Bridget and the time he spends with Catherine are among my favorite BATB moments.

This episode has a series of "firsts". We find out that Catherine's mother is deceased. Why Father came to the tunnels is alluded too. Mary is mentioned. Then there is Vincent's first appearance in his fancy, ruffled shirt and thigh-high boots--- (pause---a moment to sigh---<SIGH>). This is also the first time, Vincent and Catherine have spent time together Above without being surrounded by danger and time limits the whole time.

****

Vincent and Father:

After "No Way Down", it is reassuring to see that Vincent has recovered and is strong and bold as ever.

I get the feeling through Vincent's conversation with Father about going Above that they have already been arguing about it. Father's "Well, go on then." shows he is nursing the wound of defeat. His son will not listen to him. I am sure that Father has tried his best to convince Vincent that there is nothing in the world Above for him and that there is no reason to go there. Vincent, however, is drawn Above again and again like a mouth to a flame. I get the feeling that a foray Above on Halloween night is an annual occurrence for Vincent; much to Father's chagrin. He seems very self-assured that his face will pass for a mask.

I wonder if Vincent looks upon his face as a mask, hiding the man within. Hum….

*****

Tangent: Can you just picture a young Vincent listening to Father's Halloween tales--eyes big as saucers. <grin>

*****

Catherine:

For Catherine's character, the party has the same "fun, light spirit with a twist of mystery in it" that we don't see again until "When the Blue Bird Sings."

I am a little surprised that Catherine and Vincent did not make an evening of being together Above. I suppose that we have to remember that their friendship is new and developing. The bond is an elusive thread. They may not have even mentioned Halloween to each other or the possibility of being together on this night—of all nights. Catherine may have thought it to be too dangerous and; therefore, her surprise at seeing Vincent at the party was all the greater.

I wonder what she would have said if she had met up with him in the room. Welcome him or think he was crazy? Hum…

*****

Tangent: I do find it odd that Vincent did not sense Catherine in the room. I also find it odd that in such a small(?) space that the two of them would not notice each other sooner. Ok, I will suspend disbelief here.

*****

Vincent and Bridget:

Vincent has found a kindred spirit in Bridget and I think she is intuitively drawn to him. They understand each other and the joy and pain love has brought to their lives. And, they both chafe against the limits placed on their lives and “leave their safe places” to dare to live life to its fullness.

Someone wondered in another post why Vincent spoke of his pain to a stranger and not to someone he knew. I don't think Vincent had anyone to confide in or is not comfortable in confiding with anyone except Father, especially on matters of the heart. Father did not accept Catherine and made this plain to his son. Father could not be objective on the subject.

I wonder if---or when---Bridget realized that Vincent's face was not a mask. She points out his features as being mythical. She seems very intuitive. I think she knew he was different---and it did not matter. She accepted him for who and what he was, without ever really knowing him.

I love the mischief in their eyes when they plot to sneak away and Vincent gives her his cloak. He has shed his “safe place” of shadows and now the protection of his cloak to walk “empty handed” in the world Above.

*****

Tangent: After "No Way Down", this episode affirmed that Vincent was not afraid to leave his "safe place". Every time Vincent pushed his hood off his head, I got the same feeling—he is leaving his shadows and safety.

*****

I wonder why Vincent chose to walk away in the park and not stay---perhaps afraid of closer scrutiny or the arrival of police. I don’t think he was actually walking away to avoid Catherine, even though his conversation with Bridget gave that impression. She was the one that turned to Catherine with a knowing smile, “…but I think he would have liked to have stayed.”

I was happy to see Bridget reconcile with her father. Despite all he had done to her, she forgave him. She still loved him. So many years were needlessly lost between father and daughter.

*****

Tangent: Family feuds are something that I don’t understand. How can you hate those you are supposed to love? Yes, you can agree to disagree---but why cut yourself off? (Unless the matter is illegal or dangerous to yourself and well-being.) Too much time and energy is lost and wasted. <sigh>

I have the same feelings on the feuds of two groups of peoples from anywhere in the world. These warring factions have been taught to hate each other for so long and for so many generations, I doubt they even know why anymore. Sad. Sad. Sad. What a waste.

*****

Vincent and Catherine:

I was glad when Vincent and Catherine got to spend the rest of the night together---after all this is what we were waiting for during the whole episode. Throughout the montage, I think Vincent surprised Catherine with his knowledge of the city. I bet she learned things about the city's sites and history she may not have known. For me, this established Vincent's knowledge of the world of Above. He is not isolated Below.

They have walked and talked till dawn, probably talking about anything and everything. They finally find some time to just get to know each other and this advances their relationship.

*****

The jogger

What is with the jogger and his stupid comment? “Halloween was yesterday.” It is barely dawn---our beloved couple can’t be the only two people in all of NYC to still be “partying” at sun-up. Catherine was still in costume. Vincent was in costume…wearing a mask or maybe Vincent's "realistic make-up" caught the jogger off-guard. (Probably just a plot device to halt the kiss. <grrrr….>.)

Since we all love Vincent and find him beautiful, I suppose we find it hard that others would find him ugly or scary when he is sitting innocently on a bench with a beautiful woman.

Would they have kissed if the jogger had not interrupted and spoiled the moment? We can dream……

*****

The return to “the safe places”

Vincent's shrug and the raising of his hood mark the end of their time together. The miraculous night has come to an end and he is an outcast in world of Above for another year. Catherine reached for Vincent as he rose, but stopped short. She would have liked him to stay a few minutes longer but knows he must go. There might be a hint of sadness in the moment but they are very happy to have shared the stolen hours together. I think this night will be looked back upon as a special, magical night in both their memories. Catherine's expression says it all---she is so full of happiness.

*****

This and that

RS pointed out a brilliant insight: Bridget spends equal time with Catherine and Vincent in this episode. I had not considered this before.

I love Catherine’s owl mask---Bridget’s too.

Did you notice that it was the same set of kids at Catherine's door and in the tunnels?

And Ron's hand? Oops! RP’s hand is not “made-up” in the scene where Vincent leans over and hugs Father.

*****

Cloak moments

For the first time in “Masques”, we see Vincent give his cloak to Bridget and then later wraps it around Catherine. How many other times did he remove his cloak and give it to others?

In "A Gentle Rain", Vincent is reading to Catherine on the balcony. She is half-asleep against his shoulder and has Vincent's cloak wrapped around her legs.

In "Remember Love", in the dream, he removes his cloak and wraps it around the "broken" Father.

In the “The Watcher”, Vincent wraps Catherine in his cloak to keep her warm after she was pulled from the water. She wears it all the way home and even then holds on to it while talking to Joe and Jenny.

Hum…I think I have a cloak fetish like TM. “When I think cloak, I think Vincent.”

*****

Two Cents

Midnight Rose

CABB Episode Discussion Group posting: 4/30/2002

Final Edit: 1/1/07

The “Two Cents” essays are the sole property of the author, Midnight Rose, and are not to be duplicated or shared in any way, shape, or form except with the express permission of the author.

The Beast Within

Why is Catherine alone in the hospital? Where is her family and friends?

Beast Within: Thoughts and perspective

(What Midnight Rose really thinks.)

• In the context of 1st and 2nd season, continuing classic:

• In the context of 3S:

Nor Iron Bars a Cage

Additional thoughts: Father bashing

Song of Orpheus

“The wreak of my memories”

Catherine: Why do you say that?

Dark Spirit

I am dismayed that Catherine did not turn to Vincent for help; strange that she not. Instead, Above, she found someone who understood Voodoo and the "curse" began. She turned to that person for help. I suppose it is logical to do so. I think the drugs and subtle persuasions clouded Catherine's better judgment. I think she would have caught on to Ross if her mind had been clear.

I love the introduction of Narcissa. She is an interesting character and I am glad that she appeared in other episodes. She has her own "sight into things”. It was wise of Vincent to seek her out despite Father’s objections.

I find it interesting that Vincent is open to all possibilities when seeking knowledge. He finds the best sources available. Yes, there is fact and logic to be found in books, but to live what you believe gives you a different, deeper perspective. Perhaps, because of his own uniqueness, Vincent’s is open-minded enough to believe in a little magic.

The first balcony scene is heartbreaking. Under the influence of drug, Catherine is not herself and totally illogical. (Her dark side???) You are shocked to see her turn on Vincent and when she spits "I hate you"... each time it is a dagger into Vincent's heart, but he stands with her all the same. His love for her is his shield.

*****

Tangent: I agree with Donna’s insight, the one thing that Vincent fears the most is Catherine’s fear of him. It is the one thing he cannot protect her from. Catherine’s heart knows Vincent. However, with her mind under the influence of Ross and the drugs, her heart cannot tell her mind how gentle Vincent is or remind herself of how much she loves him.

*****

OK, I don't know what all the heavy make-up and the sexy dress has to do with anything, but—— I wonder what Ross told her to do? Catherine is in his power. Perhaps he suggested that in order to break the "curse", she needed to "do" certain things so that he would be better able to help her. Catherine was totally open to his suggestion.

*****

Tangent: Hum---I wonder what the girl thought when Baka came for Catherine and really carry her off?

*****

The final balcony scene was the perfect counterpoint to the previous one. No words. Vincent and Catherine’s actions and eyes "said" all that needed to be said. Acknowledging the heartache for causing a loved one pain. Forgiveness. Love. Gratitude. Vincent crushes the shell and sets all that happened before, behind them. Good triumphs over evil. Evil has no power when you armed with love.

*****

Questions about Dark Spirit:

What image does Vincent see on the wall?

Vincent would be a fool NOT to see the image on the wall as himself. I am sure that he has harsher, more self-degrading thoughts of his own image then Catherine does. He is wise enough to know it is coincidence. On the other hand, if someone has been spying on Catherine and seen him, he may be a bit more concerned. Hum…I could also see him make a mental note that this image of Baca may come in handy. It certainly was to his advantage at the end.

Is it Catherine's perception that led her to see "Vincent" painted on the wall?

(Keep in mind, we are seeing hallucinations through Catherine’s perspective. Per some research: Baka appears as a demon in animal form, so why did it HAVE to look like Vincent???)

You can't help but see Vincent in the "painting." The show's writers did not have to stretch much on this point. I suppose the lion is the King of Beasts; powerful, ferocious, and merciless like Baka was believed to be.

Catherine sees the image of Vincent because it obviously resembles him. If she did not know him, she may have seen only a lion-like demon. As the hallucination drugs take over her mind and she irrationally fears everything, she even fears Vincent and begins to believe the image is him.

Hum…I suppose you could also speculate that Catherine still had a deep, buried sub-conscious fear of Vincent because of her reaction to the image.

What does Vincent's nightmare mean?

Vincent is empathic. I am not sure where prophetic dreams or premonitions come in without being a little physic. The writers use his dreams often. I think that Vincent's dream foretells or forewarns of danger to Catherine and Vincent must be watchful over the one he loves. How he knows Catherine will be in danger BEFORE the danger enters her life, escapes my understanding of the bond and Vincent’s empathic abilities. Hum…

What kind of powers do you think Narcissa possesses?

I think she is gifted with a "special" sight and wisdom. An old soul. She has her mysteries. Neat character.

Could she (Narcissa) somehow have prevented Catherine's death? IF Catherine had died, could she have brought her back on the grounds that Catherine was not meant to die from evil at that time (or anytime in the series)? (Figured that it would be kind of a mystical/soulmate way to do it to keep the fantasy.)

Hum...what a cool thought. Anything is possible.

When does Catherine call the police? (It seemed like Vincent arrived just a minute after she did and saw her messed-up apartment.)

Timing is hard to judge. I am sure that Vincent arrived as soon as his feet could carry him to her balcony---maybe 5 minutes. Catherine had not felt any fear till she was IN the apartment. Catherine would not begin to clean up till after the police got there.

What does the snake achieve/represent? (From the one in her car to the one in the pot)

I do not know what the symbolism is here. Other then to scare Catherine, prey on her fears (most women do not like creepy, crawly things) and make her turn to the person who understands all she is going through and be able to help her—Ross. Strange that she did not turn to Vincent.

What is your view of the final scene, where Vincent crushes the shell?

The shell represented a door or safety, a voodoo talisman? (I don't remember even after watching DS last night) Anyways——

V crushed it. It had no more power, never did. It was a tangible object that could never stand up to the intangible power of love, darkness was over and all that had happened between them was scattered to the wind to be forgotten.

Great Questions!

*****

Two Cents---

Midnight Rose

 A Children’s Story

I enjoyed this episode very much; it was very satisfying and well done. It is a welcome change of pace after so many action-packed episodes that we wanted—and it was time—to get a bigger glimpse of the tunnels. Each episode we learn a little more. I wish they had done more Tunnel-centered episodes.

The tunnel community is slowly being revealed and we get a glimpse into what goes on in their daily lives. Kipper playing Above and learning chess from Father; Vincent and Father working on the plans for a secret door; and the boys ability to conduct themselves Above and Below.

The Tunnels may be separate from the world Above, but they interface with it seamlessly. The boys blended into the street life while they tracked the children's gang. Kipper was just a kid with skateboard, perhaps coming back from an errand. The boy pressing the note into Catherine's hands, just a street urchin, one moment he was there and gone the next. Nice touches showing that there is safety Below and yet the freedom and street smarts to survive Above.

Although not a major point, I think the children Below are well cared for and were a counterpoint to the treatment of the children in the coldness of the orphanage and abuse of the street gang. There is also a lot of trust given to the children, they are capable and dependable. They may not be adults, but they are given the responsibilities of adults and taught self-reliance. I think this gives them self-confidence.

*****

Tangent: I noted here and in following episodes that Vincent is very protective of children. He knows that they are the future and must be loved and protected. They are the innocent ones. “Ones who prey on children steal everybody hope.” I wonder if children in crisis cut him to the heart because he was abandoned himself? His life tuned out for the better by being raised and nurtured by Father. It would have only taken a quirk of fate to give him a colder and darker life.

*****

In this episode, instead of Catherine seeking Vincent's help---Vincent is seeking hers. Each in their own way, they worked on the case together. I think they make a good investigation team.

I like Eric and Ellie. Eric haunted Catherine throughout the orphanage, his silence but persistence raising her suspicions. He was dying to tell her something, we could tell. Ellie is the overprotective sister and with good reason, she and Eric had only each other for family. My heart went out to Ellie, when she was separated from Eric and because of the things she had to endure. She was so scared, yet very courageous.

Eric's introduction to Vincent is one of my favorite scenes. Catherine is more afraid of Eric being afraid of Vincent, then Vincent is. I love the wisp of humor in Vincent's voice: "That he will be afraid?" Eric is young and innocent and his reaction to Vincent has a child's curiosity and acceptance.

Father's exchange with Eric is wonderful too, very fatherly. We watch a new member of the Tunnels take "The Oath". I thought Father explained it well and brought it down to Eric's level of understanding. We learn the important promise and pledge that is the heart of this tiny hidden world—the promise of help and support to others friends and strangers alike.

*****

Observation: Did anyone notice the ceiling of Father's Library? In the scene of Vincent being told Catherine was in the Park, the angle that the camera shot shows a stained-glass skylight.

*****

I liked the tantalizing touch of Vincent drawing the portrait of the man who took Ellie. It is unfortunate that this particular talent, or any of Vincent’s talents, was not explored further. Vincent would often do something in one episode and it was never mentioned again.

*****

Catherine showed her determination and grit on this case and despite the obstacles, she persevered. I loved the Cathy/Edie caper at the Social Services office. Catherine held her own at the orphanage without Vincent's intervention. She showed her courage in facing the gang leader and her compassion in her passionate plead to Deb.

I do not know how Catherine escaped some sort of investigation in her "kidnapping" of Eric and disappearance of Ellie. Someone is bound to ask her where the children were that she was looking for. Catherine broke the case wide open and she was a witness to the crimes committed by the orphanage headmaster and the street thief. I suppose she could get away with leaving Eric and Ellie out of her report because there were enough other kids involved. I am sure that the criminals would not have said anything about Eric and Ellie and the orphanage staff seemed to go out of their way to make the kids “disappear” on paper. (I know, TV plot.)

*****

Tangent: Did anyone catch Vincent's reaction to Catherine's news that the people running the orphanage had been arrested? It seemed a little odd---like it caught him off guard a moment. Maybe he did not expect the “wheels of justice” to spin so quickly. Or maybe it was a simple affirmation to what she said. Hum…

*****

Vincent and Catherine:

V: When I see you, Catherine. I am filled with a happiness sweet then I have ever known. At the same time, I am reminded of a life that can never be—and I feel great pain.

<sigh> I love Catherine and Vincent's exchange of glances while Father is talking to Eric. Vincent loves her so much and is so proud of her.

I like the last scene too. Catherine and Vincent can both be proud of what they have accomplished together. Vincent downplays his involvement, happier to rejoice in Catherine's accomplishment. Catherine acknowledges how hollow her life of luxury was. Yes, it is grand but it did not bring her happiness or satisfaction. Helping others is her source of worth right now.

I like how Vincent basks in the warmth of Catherine's feelings; fear is such a sharp knife to his soul, that you forget that he feels the ebb and flow of her other calmer emotions. Catherine is still awe of what he does feel through the bond. I know she wishes that the Bond could be as strong in her——someday.

A Children’s Story: 2^nd episode or 10^th episode?

IMHO, I think Terrible Savior was a better choice for 2nd episode because it showed us what Vincent was NOT. We, as fans, were still getting to know him, as was Catherine. We have been introduced to a compassionate, gentle, cultured human being who had the ability to crush all his opponents with the quick, decisive, terrifying ease of his leonine heritage. We have embraced his human side---just what is his “dark” side? How does he use his protective abilities? Is he a vigilante or a reluctant hero? I think it was important to establish that point early in the series.

IMHO, I don't think ACS works as well as the 2nd episode. I enjoy it where it is in the line-up.

An Impossible Silence

Laura didn't have to tell anyone about what she saw happen. She didn't know those men. They weren't a part of her world. Laura could have escaped Below and remained silent. But she didn't. Why? Because, for her, it became an impossible silence.

When she found out that an innocent man was being accused of something he didn't do, she could not remain silent. She followed her conscious, her moral compass and took the first step in breaking the silence and told Vincent.

Looking for guidance from Vincent, Laura is told she is strong and powerful in ways she can't even imagine and she must choose her own path. After much soul searching she makes the difficult decision and goes Above leaving the safely of her family and her home Below and follows her conscious.

Laura's strength in this episode is wonderful. After being shot at, kidnapped and threatened with death, she still has the courage to do what is right.”

MR: The above comments hit the nail on the head. It was impossible for Laura to remain silent about what she had witnessed. It took great courage for her to follow her conscience and step out into the world Above; a world that had earlier rejected her because of her handicap. I think this is the heart of the episode.

*****

Tangent: I was did an online search for <poem, impossible, silence> and came across this one. I thought it was appropriate.

A Poem by Leonard Peltier, “In the Spirit of Crazy Horse”:

“Silence, they say, is the voice of complicity.
But silence is impossible.
Silence screams.
Silence is a message,
just as doing nothing is an act.

Let who you are ring out and resonate
in every word and every deed.
Yes, become who you are.
There's no sidestepping your own being
or your own responsibility.

What you do is who you are.
You are your own comeuppance.
You become your own message.

You are the message.”

*****

I got to thinking about the other "silences" in BATB. Everyone who knows of the Tunnels must keep the secret, their silence. Catherine must misdirect questions about the man in her life and where she "finds" witnesses or where she has disappeared too. Father kept the secret of his past and even the whole truth of Vincent' discovery in his silence. Father sat mute in front of the investigators in "Song of Orpheus." Vincent chooses silence as a defense when in danger (No Way Down, Nor Iron Bars) and as a wall for his own feelings and inner most thoughts.

*****

Of Communication:

This episode, I think, was an interesting side study in communication. The pipe chamber, the hub of tunnels message system is revealed. We are introduced to Pascal and his continuing work to streamline the "chatter” on the pipes. He knows he has an important job. Without this ingenious method of communication, the Tunnels would be a very isolated place.

Father, Vincent, and a few other dwellers have taken the time to learn sign language in order to communicate with Laura or anyone who is deaf.

Laura is not just introduced as a "character that is deaf" and the story runs on from there. We are given a glimpse into her world. She collects things that make noise and vibrate, she longs to hear the stolen sounds. Her dialog is rich with body language and facial expressions that do not need an audible word for us to understand. The scene where she "says" good-bye to her chamber, she moves among the items, signing and hugging herself as if to tell the objects she loves them and will miss them. The moment in front of the mirror is almost sad when she tries to say, “Hi. I’m Laura.” It reveals her worry and fear of not being able to communicate properly in a hearing world. And again, when she speaks with Vincent at the threshold, her emotions clearly seen on her face and her beloved “I Love You.”

The impatience and rudeness of the police and investigators when faced with a deaf witness, is probably very true to life---Because, I know this happens in real life. My city has a large deaf school and college community. We are in contact with the hearing impaired every day. I worked in retail and it takes patience to work through a communication barrier, but the deaf appreciate your time and patience and always sought me out for help.

The small non-verbal gestures that we covet in each episode of BATB--- all subtle communication. A lingering look. A final hug. The fingering of Catherine's hair as Vincent places the cloth on her forehead.

*****

Vincent:

Vincent became Laura’s friend, her teacher, and looks upon her as a daughter or sister (even though he will not admit it, I am sure). He inwardly grieves for the loss of Laura in the tunnels when she leaves and is rightfully worried, as she strikes out on her own.

It seems right that Vincent would be the person to take the time to learn to speak sign language. He understands how differences can isolate people. His first instinct to helping those he loves is to encourage them to be all that they are destined to become and help them in their journey. Laura has been taught what she needs to know to become the courageous and independent person she is.

Vincent is also willing to embrace the possibilities that await those who chose to grow beyond the tunnels and seek out the world Above. The Tunnels are a sanctuary for those who need them, a place to heal, a temporary dwelling, or a permanent home for those who chose to remain. Vincent can see the possibilities of Above, even though he knows he cannot be a part of it.

*****

Father:

Father, on the other hand, his gut reaction is to shun the world Above. It is no place for anyone in his tunnel world. He sees no possibilities there, it is certainly no place for a helpless deaf girl (but Laura is far from helpless.) Perhaps, he looks upon Laura's deafness as an impossibility, and sign language a barrier in the hearing world(It can be, but does not have to be.) He has not learned sign language well, he struggles with it, and perhaps it is his own personal impressions of it that fuel his reluctance. He feels there is no way for Laura to be prepared for the hardships Above---keep her safe Below.

*****

Catherine:

Catherine keeps finding herself between a rock and a hard place: going against the open and shut case of the Police Dept, DA’s office, Joe, and the TRUTH. They want her to be silent, but she cannot. The truth speaks and it must be listened too.

I like the way Catherine puts Jackson, the career criminal, in his place. He may not have murdered the cop, but she lets him know she feels nothing for him but contempt for his illegal activities. (Brilliant, LH)

I like the way she stands up to Joe. He must hear the truth despite his personal objectives in the face of his father’s tragic passing.

*****

Tangent: Maybe it is just me, but when Joe grabs Catherine’s arm, she objects strongly. It seemed to be a gut reaction, bordering on fear or, maybe, a reaction because of her attack. I could see that Catherine would be very weary of men who grab her. Hum…

*****

Vincent and Catherine:

Catherine: Vincent... Don't go. I need you close.
Vincent: I'll watch over you. Don't worry. Sleep now.

*****

This and That:

Per my sources: the sign language in the episode is accurate. The more formal, official “American Sign Language” is used Above during the deposition. In the tunnels, “Home Sign” is used. It more informal and uses more gestures and “personal” signs. I understand that Terrylene and RP worked together to come up with some “Tunnel signs.”

I have to applaud RP on his portrayal of Vincent's ease with sign language. I love to watch his hands.

*****

Two cents....

Midnight Rose

Shades of Grey

A few musings---

*****

Elliot:

Elliot: Maybe in your life, your choices have always been black and white. But in mine they are always gray.

I think Elliot summed up the theme of this episode. Life and the choices we make are not always black and white, there are many gray areas depending on the "perspective" or POV we take.

*****

Mouse:

He does not see that what he is taking from Uptop as stealing. He needs it, he finds it. Uptop has plenty more and the tunnels need so much. He has justified his "taking". It is not a perspective shared by the others. He does know what his punishment means. Silence. Isolation. Perhaps this has a deeper meaning to Mouse. After what must have been years of aloneness, Vincent found him, educated him, became his friend, gave him a family, a place to belong—all these would be gone and Mouse would be alone again.

*****

Tangent: Something that struck me---Mouse, at one point says, Vincent breaks our (the tunnels) rules---And does not receive punishment (seems implied)? I wonder if there isn't a little bit of a double standard when it comes to Vincent breaking the rules. Why? Father's reluctance to blame Vincent solely? Others high opinion or pity for Vincent because of all the restrictions on his life? What rules did/does Vincent break? Hum........

*****

Jamie:

She tries to soften the blow of Mouse's misdeeds by offering her own explanation, perhaps trying to take some of the blame upon herself. She knows what Mouse did was stealing. She feels some responsibility for Mouse's actions. Her perspective is that Mouse was trying to help the community and it should count for something in the final decision.

I get the feeling that more often then not she is Mouse's "Jimmie Cricket", his conscience.

I like the way her eyes shift wearily from Mouse to Catherine when she runs into the two of them. I can almost see the inward groan of "Oh no, what rule has Mouse broken now!" I also like the way she defends Mouse, his knowledge, and his "gizmos". She has great faith in Mouse's abilities. She is a true friend for our endearing gadget maker.

*****

Winslow:

He may be hard, stubborn, and gruff on the outside, but he loves everyone (including Mouse) with a fierce and deep love. At the counsel meeting, You know that Winslow is exasperated with Mouse and his explanations of stealing vs. taking. Winslow has made up his mind about Mouse's guilt and is impatient for the vote, Mouse stole and there should be no delay in punishment. He has a hard unyielding perspective.

I liked the comments that looked at Winslow as a representative of "the way things are always done, " I can see it in him. These are the rules of the tunnels and there is no deviation from them. The only way the tiny community can survive is with unity.

With Vincent and Father trapped, Winslow takes on the burden of community leader. He is the one everyone else is looking up too for guidance. Winslow is afraid. He fears for Father and Vincent's lives. He is afraid that they will not rescue them in time. He is frustrated with the lack of back-breaking progress. He is angered at the division of rescue strategies and action when he expected a united front (behind him, the leader). I think he is also afraid of the future of the Tunnels if Father and Vincent are not rescued, he may be the next leader. A leader leads his people into a plan of action and acts quickly when necessary; this Winslow does well. But a leader must also be open to all possibilities in finding the best solution, Winslow has a hard lesson to learn. I think when Catherine came to get him and the others that Winslow had already come to the conclusion that his way was failing. He would not admit it but it showed in his eyes and it cracked open his single-mindedness to consider another way.

*****

Father:

We see the governing body of the tunnels in action at Mouse's sentencing. The whole community has gathered to hear the issue, both sides have their say and to vote on the decision. It was a hard punishment to hand down, I think, but they knew it was necessary. The strain shows on Father's face, he sees no other way to get through to Mouse. Once the decision is made and he sees Mouse's reaction to Vincent ("Vincent too."), I wonder if Father is having second thoughts. Did he do the right thing for Mouse? Father's perspective is that the rules/laws of the tunnels must be followed for the sake of the whole community, their safety depends on it. The cohesion of a community depends on its rules.

More then once I have heard Father spout about the rules of the tunnels, when upset by someone's disregard for them. He does this with the children. He is reprimanding them for being bad but also reassuring them that everything will be set to right again. This is what a Father does.

There are some wonderful moments between father and son during the cave-in. We get a glimpse of how much Father loves Vincent and he speaks from his heart. I get the feeling that Father does not hold much hope for rescue or of his survival because of his injuries. Although, he does speak as though he knows Vincent will survive and be rescued. (?) Father knows the harshness and unforgiving nature of the underground. It is a matter of time before air runs out and he speaks of topics and issues that he may not have otherwise discussed with Vincent.

Father speaks in awe of Vincent and Catherine's connection. He reveals to Vincent what he thinks of their bond and how it works and knows that V & C cannot escape it or their love for each other. Perhaps, he realizes he cannot stop it.

I love Father's story of how he met the girl of his dreams and then dreamed for a year before seeing her again. Perhaps, he understands Vincent's need to dream. Perhaps, there is a bit of envy or jealousy for V& C, Father was never able to share his life with Margaret. I think from here forward that Father becomes more understanding and "tolerant" of Vincent and Catherine's relationship and of Catherine.

Father speaks of regret. He misses the colors of Above. He has been Below so long, was he right to make this decision for himself to hid himself in the ground? Is it regret of what could have been Above? He wishes that he could have shown Vincent all that the world could offer him, wished to show him the world Above. If Father had chosen to live Above, would Vincent have had different opportunities?

As Father gives up hope of rescue, he charges Vincent with the importance of keeping the dream of the Tunnels alive. Keep the world of Below going for all that need a safe place to grow and heal, continue his legacy, be his heir. I think Father, through the years has purposely trained Vincent to someday replace him as the leader of the Tunnels. Vincent's voice is the truest and the strongest, he being raised directly under Father's ideals and vision.

*****

Tangent: One of the things Father tells Vincent about taking the reins of leadership of the tunnels is that it would not be without sacrifices. The same sacrifices that Father himself had felt he must make in general? Or, is Father being more specific---meaning Vincent's "impossible" relationship/romance with Catherine. Vincent would have 24/7 duties Below, there would be no time for "distractions." Hum....

*****

Vincent:

The first thing that strikes me in this episode, is how unassuming Vincent is in the mist of the rest of the community gathering. He is not portrayed as Father's right-hand-man or the second-in-command. Vincent is just another voice in the fiber of the community. I do think that others look up to Vincent and respect his wisdom, an honest voice.

Mouse respects Vincent and looks up to him almost like a father. Vincent's compliance with the community's verdict pains Mouse and, hopefully, teaches him the graveness of his crime and punishment.

Vincent tells Father that the decision troubles him. "The Silence can be terrible." Has Vincent been given the Silence himself? By being sensitive to others emotions, does Vincent know how the "Silence" effects people? Or, does he speak of a more personal silence or isolation that Vincent knows of only within himself? Hum...

Vincent's perspective is one of hope. He keeps Father believing that rescue is possible and that they will survive their ordeal. Father wishes he could have given Vincent all that the world had to offer and Vincent gently assures him that his life is rich and satisfying enough. Vincent could not ask for more. If it were not for Father's vision of the tunnels, Vincent would not have the life he has. Vincent also calms and reassures Father that his parent's legacy will continue. This is something of great importance on Father's weary mind.

Vincent is in awe of the workings of the bond. I don't think he realized that the bond could manifest its voice in Catherine. Until now, the bond seemed to be his gift only. Vincent seems to find strength and hope in her presence and courage as well.

At the basement of Catherine's apartment building, Vincent's love and admiration of Catherine is so evident in his eyes. He is humbled by her love and by everything she did to help rescue them. He is almost speechless...is speechless.

<sigh> The "Hunger" look of love speaks volumes of what lays just below the surface of Vincent's heart.

The bond has manifested itself in Catherine. She is aware that whatever she is feeling that it must be coming from Vincent. Until now, we did not know if she could feel the bond like Vincent could, or that she would be able to.

*****

Tangent: I think we get a sense of Vincent's true fear of the cave-in, for Father, and for himself through Catherine responding to the bond. Outwardly, Vincent never seems to show his fear of the situation.

*****

As Ciao pointed out in her post, Catherine enters the Tunnel world---Alone---not introduced by Vincent. The tunnel community knows OF her, but most have not met "Vincent's Catherine". Vincent is not there to defend her right to be Below and Father is not there to argue why she should not be. Catherine will be judged by her character and must win the respect and acceptance of the community on her own---which she does. I suppose in the community's mind, the question was: Is she worthy of their trust and of Vincent's love?

The community is divided and Catherine's pled is the reminder that they can only win and rescue Father and Vincent by acting with unity and having trust in each other. Catherine is willing to put her own life on the line for Vincent by offering to set off the explosives herself. Is she worthy of their trust? Strength, courage, determination, selflessness, and most of all love showed the truth of Catherine's character.

*****

Vincent: Catherine...

I think Catherine finally realizes where her heart stands concerning Vincent. She loves him. She knows that she cannot live without him---no matter how she tries.

Also, the writers had been pushing to introduce more of the tunnel inhabitants and this was a great excuse. Here we are at episode 12 and the tunnel world is still a mystery to us viewers. How easily we forget who we have met and when, since we have embraced all the tunnel characters for so long.

**

I love Mouse’s exclamation, “Vincent’s Catherine!” She did not know she was a celebrity Below. LOL

I also like that bit of humor between father and son about being lucid, quoting Virgil and Vincent’s impish reply “Then I will be asleep.”

*****

Ok, It was more then a few musings---

Two Cents---

Midnight Rose

China Moon

Overall, it is a good episode. The focus is on Lin and Henry rather then Vincent and Catherine. As has been pointed out by others, there are many parallels drawn between the two sets of lovers and their communities.

*****

Lin

Dr Wong: Poor Boy...What can he hope to give her? Vincent: His heart.

Father: Dr Wong wants what is best for Lin. Vincent: Only Lin knows what is best for Lin.

I like Vincent's defense of Lin.

Lin wishes to follow her heart in light of the betrothal forced upon her and takes the steps to do so no matter what the consequences. I think she wants to do what her grandfather asks of her, but her heart is not in it. It feels wrong to her and Vincent agrees. I think the grandfather would rather allow Lin to follow her heart and marry Henry, but he is bound by Chinese tradition to honor the wishes of a family benefactor—the Chens. Dr Wong is not willing to step-out against tradition and stand up for Lin's heart. This is sad.

Father's reaction, I think, is his wish not to go against a trusted, old friend and Helper. Vincent persuades him to think of Lin's happiness with matters of the heart.

Vincent understands the need and the struggle to follow your own heart. I wish he would shout at Father "Only Vincent knows what is best for Vincent!"

*****

Vincent: Why does it sometimes seem that the world conspires to keep lovers apart?

Catherine: Or brings them together when it is impossible?

I think when Vincent spoke these words, he was thinking only of Lin and Henry's situation. These young lovers just wanted to be able to share a life together and everyone was suddenly standing in their way-it made no logical sense. Catherine's words turned it around so that Vincent could see what she saw, that it was the same for the two of them in many similar ways. Both couples were fighting obstacles from outside influences as well as within themselves.

*****

When Lin talks to Catherine of her arranged marriage ---and in the opening sequence of the dinner party--- Lin's true feelings show on her face. She is very unhappy. But…when she is asked to speak of Henry, her face lights up and the love in her heart glows on her face.

I liked the parallel Catherine made of her own relationship with her father. His ideas becoming her ideas. I great depth of understanding on Catherine's part.

******

Vincent and his “duty”

Catherine: Come back to me, Vincent.

Priest: May you enter this marriage with love and respect for one another. May your years together be blessed by children. Your love, the sum of your being, must be cherished unto the end of your days. For love is truly the strongest of bonds. Yet for all its strength, love is also delicate like a Locus Flower and requires care. Let your courage to love serve as an inspiration to all who climb the highest mountain and cross the great waters in love's name.

Ahh...the long look of longing in Catherine and Vincent's eyes as they dared to dream. Dared to silently take the vows themselves.

*****

Vincent and Catherine

Vincent: They have a lifetime together…Our time together is always measured…minutes…seconds..

Catherine: Then we must learn to measure our lifetime in another way.

Vincent: Yes.

The ending is sad, but poignant. Every brief moment that V&C spend together is so precious, a treasure. In those brief moments, they give all of themselves, all of their love to each other. (As much as they can give for now.) Vincent's lament is that he (still) believes that a lifetime together is impossible for them and that they must embrace what they have. Catherine gives voice to hope that life will not always be this way, that they will find a way. They continue to dream............

*****

Vincent and Violence:

Father: ...Then you and I must share the responsibility for OUR decision.

Vincent: This is our home they threaten. We will do what we must. Henry: You don't know them... Vincent: Chan doesn't know us.

Vincent: They have given us no choice. Father: None.

When Father and Vincent decided that they would allow Lin and Henry to have sanctuary Below, they made the decision themselves without the approval of the tunnel council. Whatever the consequences were they would share the burden and take all responsibility. They had no way of imagining the Tong would invade and threaten their home. Because of THEIR decision, I can see them refusing to put any of the other dwellers in direct danger of fighting the Tong. I also think that Vincent believes he is the sole protector of the tunnels and his family and that he would refuse any help. He knows what killing does to the soul. He and Father's actions brought the Tong to their door and Vincent will defend it at all cost.

*****

Tangent: (IMHO) I, personally, find Vincent's stalking and killing of each enemy more calculated and chilling but, at the same time, more in line with his leonine heritage. A cat lies in wait for its prey, the lions of Africa carefully stalk and pick out their prey before charging. Felines are calculating, precise, and deadly. Vincent prowls the tunnels, he instinctively knows each twist and turn, each place to lay in wait. With a man's intelligence and a cat's cunning he waits for each opportunity and then strikes with silence and surprise. I was impressed with his deadly control.

Only when a cat is cornered and sees itself in danger does it "freak out". I think that this is what happens when Vincent feels Catherine's fear and "beasts out". Her fear cuts him to the core of his being and her being in danger is the same as if he is in danger for his own life. Vincent will stop at nothing to protect and defend her. What bothers me, is that he seems out-of-control and I find this more freighting and disturbing. “Beasting out” seems out of character for Vincent, who is always so centered and disciplined. Perhaps, what Vincent says of himself is partly true----he feels he becomes "disconnected." (Again IMHO)

*****

Other thoughts:

I came across an interesting footnote about this episode in a commentary interview with writers George Martin and Alex Ganza in Above and Below: A Guide to Beauty and the Beast. In the original final confrontation with the Tong leader, Vincent answers the leader and then kills him.

(Paraphrased)

Tong leader: Only a monster would kill an unarmed man and fortunately you are a man of honor.

Vincent: Only a part of me is a man of honor and the other part of me is not a man at all.

The CBS TPTB did not like this and watered it down to the scene we see---Vincent ducking as the throwing star strikes the Leader in the chest, (Which would not have killed him per writer's comments. They decided the guy was so shocked that he had a heart attack.)... Thereby taking the final death out of Vincent's hands.

If it had not been for the ninja star, do you think Vincent would have killed the Tong Leader? Did Vincent have a choice? What do you think of the original dialogue? Would the scene have had a different impact on you, the fan, if Vincent had said those words and then killed the Tong Leader?

Quote from Martin: "...Death should disturb people. It there's one thing I'm proud of on BSB that we did, it was the fact that we may have been a violent show, but the violence had consequences---Death is a shocking thing. We shouldn't trivialize it..."

I don't. Vincent didn't.

Violence is not an easy topic. There are no easy answers. Violence cannot be rationalized or justified, as hard as we try. Unfortunately, it happens....

*****

Two Cents---

Midnight Rose

The Alchemist

Catherine:

Catherine Chandler’s job is an investigator for the DA’s office. (She is trained as a corporate lawyer.) Since I had never given the "does and don'ts" of Catherine's job much thought until this discussion group, I did not find this joint department sting out of the ordinary. Yes, there were risks, but I don't think Catherine put herself in any real danger. She knows how to handle herself and she did have backup (much better then going off alone, unless Vincent is very close by). I have never been sure why Catherine volunteered, perhaps the sense of duty to the case she was working on or perhaps the police approached her (?). Yes, this seems like work that could be better done with a police undercover agent trained in such scenarios. Yet— I propose the following: The club was a high-class place, Catherine is a socialite, she has the bearing and upbringing to move smoothly through and blend into a high fashion and glamour world. Perhaps, she was better suited for the job and no one in the Police Department fit the profile they needed. (???)

I liked the fact that Catherine took what she knew of the “glowing” drug and turned to Vincent and his knowledge of the underground as she investigated its source. (I would like to see more of Vincent and Catherine working together to solve a case.) At the same time, after Jimmy’s death, she subtly and skillfully redirects the investigation away from exploring the tunnels beneath the warehouse and protect what is underground.

I like the personal connection she made with Jimmy (She is good at connecting with people). They had a good working relationship and Catherine seems to be able to read him well. She is stunned and crushed by Jimmy's death, she has lost a real friend.

In light of Jimmy's death and the plight of the other drug victims, Catherine actually yells at Vincent over the Tunnel's inability to deal with Paracelsus, the source of the drug. (I don't think we have seen her mad at him before this.) Vincent tells her that Paracelsus has been judged according to their laws and punished to the extent to them—in essence, their hands are tied. The counsel must decide IF further action CAN be taken. Catherine's frustration shows and she vents it at Vincent.

*****

The Bond:

There are no words to describe the workings of the Bond. I am in awe of it. The power of the connection between Vincent and Catherine continues to unfold and reveal the depth of it episode by episode. At first, I looked upon Vincent as the keeper---the source---of the bond, that the bond begins within him. He seems to be able to control it, whereas in Catherine it is a reflection. In Shades of Gray, Catherine finally becomes aware of the Bond because of Vincent's fear. But, IMH, my conclusion was wrong and it changed with this episode, I think the Bond flows between them unchecked, Vincent is more attuned to its presence then Catherine. Vincent has learned to focus on it because he is attuned to his empathic abilities.

Here, Vincent is lost to himself, he is his primal self. The light of the Bond, the thread that binds her to his heart, is Catherine's only shield, her only tool to reconnect with Vincent. I don't think she knows how to "use" it, but she approaches Vincent without fear of him, projecting all her love toward him, knowing somehow, some way that she will be able to reach him. I do admire her courage because she had no idea what would happen when she reached him. She has faith in the bond, their love, and her conviction that Vincent would never hurt her.

*****

Of Vincent’s True Past:

When looking at these episodes, I often find myself trying to reconcile all the little tidbits of information we are given about the tunnels, its beginnings, and Vincent—The Alchemist, To Reign in Hell, Dead of Winter, God Bless the Child, the Trilogy. Here, Father tells Vincent about Paracelsus for the first time. This man helped shape the tunnel community from its infancy and was exiled before Vincent was born— as Father tells it. In Dead of Winter, it is mentioned that the exile of Paracelsus was a new wound and that Vincent is a babe. In God Bless the Child, Father's “Baby Vincent” story is given embellishment, but mentions a dark time after (Paracelsus?). Yet, later in the Trilogy Father tells Catherine Paracelsus's wife, Anna, brought Vincent to Father. Whether Paracelsus was still part of the community then, I do not recall with clarity. In such a case, Anna and John may have been Vincent's first parents. But because of John's unhealthy obsession with the leonine child, Anna feared for Vincent's safety and future and was brought to Father for raising. If anything, Father tells the story of Vincent's beginnings truthfully, but leaves out specific details—omitting actual details until he must reveal all (in the Trilogy).

Vincent loves and trusts Father. But I have to wonder, if Paracelsus' way of cleverly undermining Father is to make Vincent begin to question what he knows, to doubt Father. Paracelsus is questioning the story Father tells of Vincent's beginnings, questions arise again in To Reign in Hell, and in the Trilogy his lie is Vincent's undoing. But Father lies to Vincent with silence, In Song of Orpheus and Shades of Gray, Vincent finds out about Father's past. In Promises of Someday, Vincent finds out that Devin is Father's son. Wouldn't this make someone wonder if he is being told the truth? (Am I making sense?)

*****

Father’s Silence:

I do find it odd that Vincent had not been told about this man, this threat, to the Tunnels. How was it kept from him all these years? Did no one ever speak of Paracelsus? I wonder if Father forbid any mention of Paracelsus. Perhaps Father kept quiet for the same reasons he had kept the secrets of his life Above and love of Margaret, the memories of all he lost were better "forgotten". The loss of John, the exile of his friend, his mentor (?), was also very painful and better "forgotten".

Father's silence may be, in part, to protect Vincent from Paracelsus' possible influence. Father is Vincent's only parent, the direct influence in his life. Father is always "over-protecting" Vincent. I wonder if Father fears losing his solid hold on his son, if Vincent got wind of the "full" truth of his beginnings. Would Vincent seek out Paracelsus? We learn in later episodes how Paracelsus really felt and what he believed about Vincent. Paracelsus would be a grave endangerment to Vincent's fragile mental and emotional balance.

IMHO, if Vincent is the principle protector of the Tunnels, then he should know of all “known” threats to the community. Also, I would think that Father would be very concerned that Vincent may run into Paracelsus in his vast wanderings underground. Father should have warned him and told him the whole truth. Otherwise, Vincent would not know to be on guard to battle this man’s subtle manipulations.

When Father meets with John, you can see the tension in Father's face. I think he had mentally prepared himself to confront John. I think Father was hoping to find a "softer, remorseful" John after so many years of exile, rather then a hard, bitter, evil man. The loss of this man's friendship still hurts. It is soon quite clear that Paracelsus cannot be reasoned with.

*****

Tangent: Father is always quick to dismiss the problems of Above as not the Tunnels’ problems. Not in this episode, the danger to Above starts Below. Perhaps, Father feels responsible because it is Paracelsus, a former member of the community. Father must also protect Below from discovery.

*****

Paracelsus:

Tony Jay, himself, said of Paracelsus that he was a villain with a definite and particular point of view. His

evil had a purpose---As of this episode, the purpose is unclear other then sell poison because of greed. I

think that John began the Tunnel world and with Jacob's help made it flourish. The two forefathers worked

side by side for a while until Paracelsus got power hungry. Do we really know what happened and caused Paracelsus to be exiled? If the Silence were considered a severe punishment, what would have deemed exile?

Paracelsus plays mental games. He makes you question what you believe—or the way things are. He reminds Father that it was HE who came up with ingenious ideas to help the tunnel world. He attacks Father's authority because Jacob is called Father; a name of unquestioned parental authority in most peoples minds. Perhaps, John has a valid point.

He even baits Vincent. How did Paracelsus know that the questions of Vincent's beginnings would be an Achilles' heal for this extraordinary being? Was he just testing him, looking for weakness? Do I sense a little jealousy of the father-son relationship between Father and Vincent? We know in later episodes that Paracelsus looks upon Vincent as HIS son.

I think Paracelsus was afraid of Vincent and knows he is the protector of Father and the tunnel world. I am sure the pipes are alive with talk of Vincent and his abilities. Paracelsus knows he is being pursed by "Death" itself when Vincent goes after him.

*****

Tangent: Paracelsus has vowed to expose the Tunnels if discovered. Why would he do that? He would be exposing his home, his one and only hidden sanctuary. Also, who Above would believe him? A criminal is not creditable. What is he going to do? Draw a map? To me this seems like a lame threat—but maybe I am wrong.

*****

Vincent:

At the beginning of this episode, Vincent gently "chides" Catherine for what he believes are unnecessary risks. He speaks of her attack as a possible cause. Yes, I think Catherine is driven to help those who need help because of her own experience. I think she makes each case personal. Yes, Catherine has ended up in danger many times and Vincent has come to her aid. Vincent has taken upon himself the role of her sole protector and HIS fear of not being able to reach her, frightens him, I think. He has spoken of this same fear in previous episodes.

Yet, at the grate scene, when he is explaining what the Tunnels can and cannot do, he tells her "you must live according to your conscience." (Even if your conscience says take a risk?) Vincent takes on his own risks---At the Counsel, he suggests that he be the one to go out and stop Paracelsus. (How? Talk him into stopping? Threaten him with harm? Cave in? Break his legs? LOL We never find out.) Vincent is taking a risk to protect his home.

Under the influence of the drug, Vincent talks about feeling "disconnected." He has lashed out at those who love him, injured his father and was about to give a more deadly blow before being driven away. What was unleashed within him frightens and embarrasses him. We come to realize what a fragile balance of man and animal Vincent is. How easily the scale is tipped.

Despite being lost to himself, the bond is the thread of connection. Catherine walks toward him as he is roaring and snarling, but he seems to be unable to lift a hand to strike at her. It is almost as if he is mentally in chains "Do her no harm!" Her love, her touch, her hug, her presence brings him back to himself.

*****

Tangent: I had not given the images of the hallucination much thought until one post suggested that the image of Catherine was a demoness beckoning him toward hell and torment. Another post, suggested that Catherine’s image is of a temptress and he is struggling to resist her. The flame could represent the loss of control, destruction and it is something to fear. (Vincent was run off by fire.) Fire is also a symbol of passion. Regardless of either POV, in his drugged state Vincent would not know what is real or not real. The true vision of Catherine and her “real” presence and the “real” call of the Bond broke through and Vincent was able to grasp on her “truth” and battle his way out.

****

I love the tenderness between Vincent and Catherine while back in Father's study, how she gently touches him, comforts him. How he caresses her hand.

Vincent is ashamed that Catherine saw him in all his terrible glory, but is grateful that she was able to save him. Perhaps he knew that she was the only one capable of reaching across the darkness and touching him with her light. I think he is also, relieved that even though she has seen his dark side that she still loves him and is still there for him. It is a shame that he still questions her unwavering love for him.

When Vincent is about to go back to face Paracelsus, he tells Father that Paracelsus' judgment for what he had done is now "Mine!" No more discussion, no more counsel. Vincent is the judge, jury, and ??? It has become personal for Vincent. Why? Revenge? Or now that he has seen for himself the evil of this drug, he will not let it continue. He will risk everything to stop it.

Again, when he confronts Paracelsus, I have to wonder what Vincent would have really done? But the decision is taken out of Vincent's hands—the fight that happens becomes one of self-defense for him and despite everything Paracelsus has done, Vincent tries to save this evil man from the flames.

When Paracelsus mentions Vincent's beginnings, you can almost see the longing, the hope to know of his beginnings in Vincent's eyes and his hesitation. Yet, I sense that Vincent is still being very cautious because "There is a truth beyond knowledge…Love."

Finally, Vincent now understands why Catherine takes the risks she does because he takes the same kinds of risks himself. "There are some things worth risking everything for."

*****

Two cents— Midnight Rose

Temptation

All of my BATB sources that I use for reference dismiss this episode as the "Joe" episode. Vincent and Catherine are forced into the background and a secondary character is given his moment to shine. Even the writers/producers of this episode were not happy with it because they felt that (1) It was too early in the series run to focus on a secondary character. (2) The episode does not stick out in anyone's minds except for the brief moments with Vincent and Catherine, and the last scene, which in their opinions was one of the series great moments.

Do I agree?

Honestly, I have viewed this episode many times over the years and I will admit I fast-forward most of the time and watch the "good parts"—V&C. I know the "Joe" story. I enjoy the V&C moments, the affectionate humor of Vincent and Father’s exchange, and the scene with Mouse, so I watch them over and over.

*****

Joe:

I like Joe and I enjoy watching the working relationship and friendship he has with Catherine. They make a good team. He trusts her. He listens to what she has to say and considers her opinions and arguments. They might not always agree, but they respect each other, are loyal to each other, and care deeply for each other. As the series progresses, Joe seems to take on an almost "big brother" fondness for Catherine. I think Joe loves Catherine and if he were not her Superior; he would probably pursue her romantically.

It is Erica that rattles off all the qualities that Joe has and that we know he has: bright, charming, committed, aggressive, straight-shooter..... Joe is honest and hard working. He wants to see justice done. Everything he is, his personal character and integrity as a DA, is put to the test when Erica is brought into his life to discredit him. Yes, he swayed—he was charmed by her beauty and tempted by an offer of a better job—who would not be? I think Joe needed to be reminded by Catherine to re-check his priorities and he did. He was out of control, his head in the clouds, he knew what was right to do and Catherine's frank chat helped him take the most difficult first step.

*****

Father:

I was glad to see Father finally admit that he likes—and cares—for Catherine. Time and again Catherine has proven her love to his son and I think Father is beginning to concede that Catherine is here to stay. Father also admits that he is in awe of the bond Vincent and Catherine share and reveals that it touches the lives of everyone Vincent and Catherine know. The love of this extraordinary couple will leave an incredible legacy.

*****

Vincent:

The love of Catherine and his love for her have changed Vincent's life. Many impossible things that he may have dreamed away in the past have given him new hope for the future. Here was an extraordinary woman from a "forbidden" world that loved him—HIM—everything that he is, the light and the dark. Vincent tells Mouse that Catherine's love was the end of his aloneness. (I wonder if we can truly understand how alone Vincent was because of who and what he is?) This bond he shares with Catherine is his life-blood. I truly feel that he could not go on living without her.

*****

Catherine:

I think that where Catherine is in her personal development of “Self” is a great testament to Vincent's presence and love in her life. Look where she has gone in a year—The survived the attack mentally, emotionally, and physically, left her Father's firm, joined the DA, changed her outlook, and priorities in life—Catherine has come far as a person. It has taken great courage on her part and Vincent's words of encouragement were the spark.

Catherine has taken the darkest hour of her life and filled it with light. The doctor is perplexed that she would keep the scar and be constantly reminded of that night. Even Vincent remarks that it is remarkable that Catherine chooses to celebrate this turning point in her life, rather then put it out of her thoughts and mind. She gives all the credit to Vincent and to the love and hope he gave her, but the credit should go to Catherine herself.

*****

The Gifts:

The last scene of this episode is so romantic, candlelit, —and the exchange of gifts. <sigh>

This anniversary night is really a profound turning point on both their lives. I thought it was very touching that the two of them would take the time and chose a special gift to give the other ---symbolic tokens of their great love for each other.

Vincent travels for days in search of something from his world, a world of darkness that contains unimaginable beauty as well. I do not know much about the mythology of crystals or their meanings, but Vincent says it reminds him of a piece of eternity. Mouse remarks that there is a fire inside of the quartz jewel. I think the crystal is a symbol of Vincent's love, speaking volumes when he cannot yet find the words or courage to tell Catherine of them. His love of her is everlasting and undying and he burns with passion for her. The bond that they share is fathomless and will transcend space and time.

Catherine's gift is a white rose, an obvious symbol of love, but it is something deeper and more meaningful to her, I think. This is a treasured heirloom, a gift from her mother, an object of remembrance. Catherine was afraid of the dark and her mother gave it as a comfort. Vincent drew Catherine from the darkness that had engulfed her life and gave her his love. She gives this precious, irreplaceable memento to Vincent now as a reminder of her love for him. The bond connects them, makes them a part of one another, and they have only to follow that silver thread of consciousness to know the other is thinking of them. Neither will ever be alone again.

*****

Conversation between MR and TM: The gifts

MR: I think the gifts chosen are perfect. I don’t think they are too romantic or overly symbolic of a love that has not reached “that” height of intimacy. Vincent and Catherine’s love is unrequited and IMHO that makes it a deeper, stronger, and more romantic. It is pure love. A courtship. Their love encompasses them within the Bond and I do not think you can unite two hearts and souls more intimately then the Bond. The bond has made them one. There may be no physical expression (yet), but the passion is their eyes and hearts cannot be ignored.

TM: I see an innocent simplicity, an expression of purest love between two people who are just discovering the magic and wonder of a relationship that is so extraordinary that neither one could have imagined it. They each gave the other a part of their world, a part that captures the exquisite beauty that is found there. And to put a more common symbolism spin on them, jewelry and flowers for a first anniversary.

*****

Tangent: I know this is an old, worn out argument, but—I must take the show TPTB to task—This episode throws the series timeline out of line. April plus eight months is December. Halloween is not in January the last time I checked. If they had said six months, it may have made more sense. Perhaps not. A lot has transpired between the night they rekindled their friendship and the adventures that have happened in between—almost too many in such a short span of time.

So, I guess it is left to us fans to find some way to "explain" it away. Any theories? I chose to ignore the obvious error. Others have questioned the span of time and made it two years.

My ponderance is---separate from any timeline---How much time goes by between Vincent and Catherine getting together for a few moments or for an adventure. Do they try to see each other once a week or is it several weeks before they see each other again, perhaps a month or- more? Catherine is overloaded with her job Above and Vincent has duties Below, their free time is limited. Hum......

*****

This and that:

I like Vincent’s reply to Mouse. “It was neat.”

Erica is a corporate lawyer just like Catherine was.

Joe is playing with a large crystal while laying there in bed with Erica. Vincent is searching for a crystal cavern.

Joe’s apartment---it is a re-do of Catherine’s apartment set. It is shot from a different angle, but it is the same foot-print as Catherine’s home. Even that approach from the hall and door is the same.

*****

Two cents—

Midnight Rose

Promises of Someday

I thought this episode was very well done. We are given another glimpse into Father's past and Vincent's childhood. Little by little the mystery of Devin is unveiled throughout the episode and I remember not knowing where it was going to end up until the scene where Father reveals all.

Who is this Devin? I was glad he did not end up being another Mitch character. He reminds me more of Jared on "Pretender," with his ability to mold—or bluff—his way through any role he wishes to play. Devin is a charming rouge and (to be honest) a con-artist, but one with a good heart and like he says, he could never decide what he wanted to be when he grew up.

There is a lot of pain and regret revealed in this episode and the "promise of someday" to tell the truth and make amends. Father thought Devin was dead and he regretted never telling the boy the truth of his parentage and almost did not once again. Devin feels the regret of leaving home, of leaving Vincent behind, yet the unresolved issues with Father are eating at him. For Vincent, it is the painful lost of a childhood friend who was more like a brother to him and the loss of dreams that included him.

Hum... How to tackle this episode.........

*****

Devin and Catherine:

Catherine's role in this episode is most simply that of a messenger. She warns of a possible intruder or danger to the tunnels and sets the final wheels in motion for Father and Devin to speak the truth to each other.

When Devin is first introduced, he is a young attorney that is assigned to the case Catherine is working on. This is a very personal and important case for Catherine and I think she feels that “Jeff” is muscling in on her territory. I think she feels a little slighted by Joe and Moreno for having to "share" the case. I do think that right away, something about “Jeff” did not add up for Catherine, she is suspicious from the beginning.

You can almost hear the alarm bells going off in Catherine's head when "Jeff" headed for the drainage tunnel. Here is a strange man showing up in her office and now he has knowledge of the tunnels. I am sure thoughts of another "Mitch" crossed her mind.

A mystery is afoot and she is determined to find out if “Jeff” is friend or foe. She warns Vincent of what she knows and hopes that he might know if this person is a danger. But all she gets is Vincent's vague and strange explanation. Why didn't Vincent tell Catherine what he knew of this man—or at the very least, his suspicions? It was obvious on Vincent's face, he knew—or hoped— that is was who he thought it was. I am surprised that he did not tell her what he knew right then. Without some explanation, Catherine could have scared Devin off before anything was resolved. Catherine trusts Vincent to tell her in his own time and he does. Unfortunately, she knows she cannot let the "Jeff' charade continue; it is illegal. She is caught in the dilemma of following the laws of Above and her loyalty to the tunnels and Vincent. The thought of hurting Vincent over this is very hard for her, but what choice does she have?

*****

Tangent: IMHO, I think the scenes starting with "Jeff' at the tunnel and following are out of sequence. If I was Catherine I would have stayed at the tunnel entrance and warned Vincent that night.

1. Catherine follows "Jeff' to the tunnel (re: C in trench coat over her blue dress with round jewelry piece.)

2. Next morning, Catherine comments on Jeff’s research (re: C in a black dress and triangle jewelry)

3. Next scene, Catherine meets with Vincent (re: C in blue dress, round jewelry)

4. Catherine tells Jeff good night and finds the crumpled notes (re: back in the black dress.)

Another question: How did Devin NOT see Catherine following him, hear her behind him, or see her hiding in plain sight? You would think him to be more vigilant. Hum....

*****

Finally, Catherine is used as a catalyst to bring Father and Devin together. She tells Devin she will not expose him for Vincent's sake and then challenges him, faces him over the incident at the carousal. Devin

bellows in anger (and perhaps he has every right to feel this way)—everyone around him seems more concerned about Vincent then him. Here he is, twenty years later, and Vincent seems to take precedent over him once again. I don't think that was anyone's intention, but it is very true. This aside, Catherine is acting on Vincent's behalf, and helps Vincent brings father and son together.

*****

Musing: The writing on the envelope "I am a fraud... but I am a good fraud." I have often wondered if Devin left this on Catherine's desk and that Devin forged Vincent's handwriting. I know, I know... I am stretching here, but it is an odd thought that has stuck with me for years.

*****

Devin and Vincent:

It was not until the end of this episode that we find out Vincent and Devin are brothers and it is not until "Brothers" that we find out that Vincent and Devin shared a chamber. At this point, Devin is portrayed as a best friend to Vincent, a friend who included Vincent in dreams and adventures as much as possible. I am sure that Father told Devin time and again to "watch out" for Vincent's welfare and perhaps sometimes Vincent was an unwelcome "shadow", but I think that Devin loved Vincent very much and took him under his wing. In turn, a young Vincent would have looked up to an older "brother."

Boys are boys and brothers are brothers, they love each other and hate each other in the same breath, but are always best buddies. After their fight, I can see Devin wanting to make it up to Vincent by arranging something special for him. The escapade at the Carousel must have been magical to the young Vincent, a very rare, once in a lifetime occurrence. Devin was the apple of his eye. Unfortunately, Devin's moment of triumph ended in a harrowing escape for both he and Vincent. Putting Vincent in danger was never his intention.

Devin faced Father's wrath for the last time and decided it was time to leave the tunnels; run as far away from the pain as possible. Devin says himself that he was running from the pain of losing his mother and the anger and frustration of never being able to please the only father figure in his life. Since he and Vincent were raised as brothers, I think there was also a bit of resentment toward a younger brother that everyone cared more about then anyone else. His pain and anger drove Devin from his home and I think that he felt there was no way to go back once he left.

*****

Tangent: I have to wonder why Vincent never cleared up the misunderstanding of that day. If Father were to have believed anyone, it would have been Vincent's version of the story. I suppose Vincent may have been too young to articulate what happened or perhaps it was loyalty to Devin. Perhaps, Vincent had heard the "official" story told by the other children and silently questioned Devin's true intentions. Devin, on the other hand, never had the chance to set the record straight because of Father's foregone conclusions. Instead of defending himself, Devin lashed out in anger, hurting Father where he knew Father would hurt the most—intentionally bringing danger to Vincent.

*****

Gone twenty years, Devin's thoughts turn to home, the only place he has to "belong". For all his adventures and all his wandering, Devin never found the happiness he sought, he never felt "free" of his past. There was unfinished business at home and it compels him to return.

I have to wonder what Devin thought as the hidden door rolled back and he came face to face with a full-grown Vincent. His little brother was a sight to behold—bigger, stronger, intimidating. A lot is said in the body language of Devin's awkward steps backward. I don't think he was sure of the reception he was going to get. And then Vincent envelops him in a bear hug.

After a reaffirming embrace of love and of brothers, Vincent tells Devin about what happened after his sudden disappearance and the unfruitful search that followed. Vincent shares his own pain and loss, but this confrontation does not have the accusing tone that Devin faces with Father, Vincent has the gentle loving spirit to forgive all that had happened in the past, embrace his prodigal brother, and look toward the future. Devin, in turn, shares some of his adventures, but there is an element of sadness, he regrets leaving Vincent behind, as Devin later stated in the episode of "Brothers. “And dreams... oh God, how we dreamed. Things we were gonna do, Vincent and me. Places we were gonna go, everywhere south of Oz and North of Shangri-La. Then I grew a little older. One day I realized that I was never gonna do any of them unless I left Vincent behind.” —Devin, Brothers

Years may have pasted between the brothers, but Vincent and Devin have an easy time rekindling their friendship and brotherhood. Vincent would hope that Devin would stay, but he knows his brother well enough and knows that Devin's visit will be short. What bothers Vincent even more, is the unresolved issues between Devin and Father. He cannot let Devin leave without making them confront the past and make peace.

Even though Devin's wandering spirit takes him away from the Tunnels and Vincent will be left behind again, both know that Devin will return from time to time. I think in a way, Devin knows—or feels—that he must go out into the world and experience all that life has to offer because Vincent cannot. Devin carries Vincent's spirit with him.

<sigh>I love Vincent's shy admittance that Catherine is "more" then just a friend.

*****

Devin and Father:

A boy—a son—thought to be dead is standing in front of Father and over-whelmed with shock Father picks up right where he left off—speaking angrily at Devin. This does not make any sense to me, it seems completely out of character for Father. I expected a welcome home, a hug, at the very least. This is his son! Why wait a moment longer to tell Devin all that Father knows he must tell him.

*****

Tangent. What if Devin had only been another child Below would he have been given the same cold welcome? Father had the same cool reception for Lisa. Those who Father feels puts Vincent at risk---are not welcome???

*****

Father's actions don't make sense—or maybe they do. (Father is only human with his own faults.) Father does not seem to be able to let go of the bitter emotions of his past, he holds on to every hurtful memory like a shield. Thinking his son was dead, Father has been mourning that loss for years, just like his many other personal wounds. Having to face the hurts again makes Father lash out with his own pain.

Father loved Devin's mother, Grace, and lost her in childbirth. Father was unable to save her and is left with an infant to raise. Father projected his pain and guilt upon Devin, the representative of his failure and loss. By not embracing the boy as his son back then, set into motion actions (subconscious actions) of constant rejection.

Personalities of father and son also tend to clash when they are too much alike, because they are "cut from the same cloth." Father expected too much of Devin because he was his son and expected him to behave as Father thought proper, although this relationship was never revealed. They never learned to communicate with each other and they never learned to listen to each other. I think they were both hard on each other and, truthfully, did not know why. Devin, much to Father's dismay, is probably acting just like Father did in his youth: impulsive, daring, defiant, rebellious, and irresponsible. I also think that Father was hoping to mold Devin (like he has done with Vincent) into an heir to take charge of the tunnels, someone to make sure Vincent would always be safe.

**

Questions, questions, questions: Why did Father not acknowledge Devin as his son? Why did Father never tell Devin that he was his son? Did not anyone know that Father was the father of Grace's baby? Did not Grace tell anyone who the baby's father was? I have no answers.

If no one knew Grace's baby was Father's son and Father did not claim that right, perhaps, it was easier at the time to place Devin with the other children and not give him any preferential parental treatment. The community would help raise the baby. But then baby Vincent comes along and Father takes the opposite action, raises Vincent as his son and becomes over- protective. The boys are roomed together and were raised together as brothers (as we find out in “Brothers”), but Father always keeps his distance from Devin and dotes on Vincent. It makes no sense why Father would do this. Perhaps, Father realized his error in judgment concerning Devin too late and decided (because he knows best) that Devin would be better off not knowing. Father fears that Devin will hate him all the more if he knew the truth, but this truth is something Devin needs to hear and it is up to Devin how he handles it.

Father is willing to let this truth again go unknown as Devin leaves once again. It is not until Vincent is angry at him and forces Father to see his error of actions that Father says the words and finally claims Devin as his son.

We leave Father and Devin at the beginning of their reconciliation. I think they talked for a long while. Perhaps, an understanding began, but it will be a long road to healing for both.

*****

Vincent and Father:

Vincent is trying to understand this riff between Father and Devin. He knows that there is great pain between these two people he loves. Until Father and Devin make amends, Devin will never be a part of his life again. To find Devin and then lose him again is very painful for Vincent, he blames Father for his own unhappiness in this situation. Vincent is stranded in the middle, one of the many "issues" that complicate Father and Devin's relationship. Older and wiser, Vincent knows there is a hidden agenda.

We rarely see Vincent angry and Father knows that Vincent's anger is directed at him. Father seems to shrink back and almost looks afraid as Vincent storms back and forth across the chamber. He seems more intimidated (and concerned) by Vincent's anger then Devin's.

Father pleads with Vincent to understand that some relationships are not meant to be repaired. For Vincent's comfort and his own, Devin left them before and was destined to leave them again, and they should not be surprised. It is a lost relationship that is not worth reconciling. But for Vincent it is, he had a close relationship with Devin.

Vincent wants to know why Father has welcomed every other child that has come Below, loved them, raised them, been there for them, but never for Devin. What set Devin apart? Father suddenly realizes what he has done to Devin, again blinded by his own good intentions. At last the truth comes tumbling forth and Vincent is shocked by the revelation. Perhaps, some understanding comes.

Vincent's next concern is getting Father and Devin together so that Devin can know the truth. There are many issues and years of hurt to overcome for all three of them. The reconciliation and healing has begun, but it may be a bumpy road for all involved as their relationships with each other are redefined. How much can you forgive?

*****

A question for “Odd” Midnight Rose

TM: Why would Devin forge Vincent's handwriting?

MR: Like I said, this is just an odd thought that has stuck with me. It has no scientific basis, except for an odd musing on my part.

Re: Devin is a con-artist, a fraud, he admits it. Why not forge Vincent's handwriting on the envelope he leaves for Catherine. Just to make his point of how good he is, he can be anyone. (???) I have no basis for thinking that Devin left the envelope on C's desk either.

Fine, you caught me---my imagination is running away with me.

Just a quirky thought---brain in left field---exit stage right---<grin> <shrug> <scuff feet> <sheepish grin>

*****

Two cents —

Midnight Rose

Down to a Sunless Sea

The first thing that pops out at me in this episode is the three different relationships, Marcy and Husband, Catherine and Stephen, and Catherine and Vincent. One domineered by another, one manipulated by the other, and one freely loved of the other.

Marcy and Husband:

Marcy O'Neil is being physically abused by her husband. There is obvious danger to herself, she faces it each time she looks in the mirror, but she does not see it---or does not wish to see it. This "monster" has dominated her life and mind, crushing her spirit and trampling her self-esteem. Despite all that has happened to her, she still loves him and refuses help out of the situation. She rationalizes the abuse and holds on to the empty promises her husband gives her again and again. It is too late when Marcy realizes the awful truth.

*****

Footnote: I read in an interview with a BATB director or producer that the final "Marcy" scene was shot very early in the morning. It took only one or two takes and the whole crew was touched and awed by the powerful, heart-wrenching portrayal. I believe Take One was used. I also read, in a BATB commentary, that this was an honest portrayal of Battered Wife Syndrome. Kudos to the actress.

*****

Catherine and Stephen:

Stephen is more subtle in his abuse of Catherine, it is emotional abuse. He does not physically attack her (until the end), but he preys on her emotions by revealing his responsibility in his parents' death, his brain tumor, and the memories of the life and dreams they once shared as a couple. Stephen wants Catherine to feel sorry for him, pity him, feel responsible for his unhappiness, and this would somehow rekindle her feelings for him. He has already irrationally convinced himself of this, give Catherine everything she once dreamed of and she would immediately fall back into love with him. He will do everything in his power to "make" her love him.

The subtleties of Stephen's efforts work at first. Catherine seems weary of his sudden appearance in her life, curious to what he wants, but willing to rekindle a friendship. She knows that Stephen was possessive and domineering in their relationship, but she dismisses it as younger days and frivolous dreams. She assumes that just as she has grown up and changed that Stephen has also. His berating comments, quickly injected and then apologized for, do not give her cause for alarm, because she knows that their breakup was very painful to Stephen. Catherine does not see, or wishes to see, that Stephen is obsessed with her and that his intentions are demented before it is too late.

This leads to Catherine's frustration with Vincent and his dream. Vincent senses danger and knows that Catherine is the source, that this man, Steven, is the key. Catherine feels that she knows Stephen well enough and trusts Stephen to never harm her; he once loved her. Although Catherine trusts Vincent and his counsel, she still rejects Vincent's warning and feels his fears are unfounded; he is "just" jealous. (Perhaps, her rejection of the one person she truly trusts, is another part of the subtleties of manipulation. ???)

*****

Vincent and Catherine:

Vincent's love for Catherine is unconditional. He loves her with every fiber of his being, she is his light and breath, his reason for living. On the surface, Vincent could be thought of as "obsessed" with Catherine, but this is not the nature of his love for her. He puts no demands on her and he accepts all that she gives to him as a wondrous gift. He is her friend and her confidant and they trust each other. He loves her, she loves him, the bond binds their souls, but she is free.

He has appointed himself her guardian and protector. It is Vincent's duty to tell Catherine all he knows of the dream, cautions her to be careful---begs her to be careful---but he will not do anything to stop her from finding her own way. He will watch and wait, ever vigilant, and hope that the end he fears will not come to pass.

*****

Father and Vincent:

Vincent: I’m irrational...I cannot explain it.

Father: Then why don 't you try, Vincent.

Vincent: A powerful image, a foreboding...everytime I think of her.

Father: A foreboding? You mean some manifestation of the empathy you share?

Vincent: No. This is different.

Father: Well, Vincent, I remember the last time a man came into her life....

Vincent: Please, Father, these feelings are real.

Father: I am not disputing the feelings themselves, only the source of the feelings.

Vincent: You think I am the source?

Father: I can understand that... This man is someone with whom Catherine shared the dreams of a lifetime.

A life, unfortunately, that you and she could never have.

Vincent: It does not explain the vision... the threat.

Father: The threat to her... or the threat to you, Vincent?

Father, once again, makes me mad just because he seems to insist on shooting down Vincent's hopes and dreams. But, he does make a point that Vincent needed to consider.

Father almost seems to sigh in exasperation as Vincent reveals the dream that haunts him. Once more he must deal with the unrest in his son's already complicated life because of Vincent's preoccupation with an impossible relationship. Father dismisses Vincent's dream just as Catherine does. Vincent could be the source of the dream. He makes Vincent consider whether he is jealous of this other man in her life and that he feels threatened by this "rival"? Just as Elliot could have taken Catherine's love away, so could this man. Vincent longs for a life with Catherine that "can never be" and Father jumps at the opportunity to remind Vincent of this point. As much as Vincent tries to bury his "true" feelings and not let the "darker" emotions mar his love for Catherine; he still must feel them on some level. We know he does. Vincent is convinced that one day Catherine will turn to another and deep down Vincent fears that day.

*****

Tangent: LM points out in her post that Steven symbolizes Catherine’s past and all the advantages of a life Above, with its sunlight and with all its material trappings. To Vincent, his world only offers the “dark” and “cold” underground world with few conveniences and no material affluence.

I think Vincent is convinced that he can only offer Catherine the “cold” and “darkness” of his world. He does not see the light of community, the love of family, and warmth of belonging that the Tunnels and his love can give Catherine. He is convinced that his sunless world is not for Catherine---however this does not stop him from dreaming of her coming Below.

Catherine is Vincent’s Light and in many ways, I think, he needs her in the world of Above, she stands for him in a world he can never be a part of. He is always pushing Catherine back toward Above because that is where she can “become the person she is destined to be.” To paraphrase Vincent, Catherine is a creature of light and for her to come Below will in essence be “burying” her. (Does this make sense?)

*****

The events of the episode wind their way "down to a sunless sea", a dark path that no one can stop or escape. Marcy nearly kills her husband to protect herself. Catherine realizes too late that Stephen is still a danger to her and she should have trusted her dearest friend's warning, and Vincent's dream comes to dreaded life and ends in blood. Marcy's fate is hinged on whether or not her husband lives. Stephen, as we learn later in "The Trilogy", is in a mental institution with his body mangled. Vincent and Catherine are left to confront the questions of trust between them.

*****

Final Scene:

Catherine: ... Don't be ashamed, Vincent. You only did what you had to do.

Vincent: I know that.

Catherine: I was the one who was unfair. I just thought that you were feeling betrayed I forgot for a

moment how you trust me. I should have trusted you.... How did you know?

Vincent: I knew... because... somehow, somewhere deep inside, you--- you must have known.

The final scene is very tense. Vincent and Catherine stand apart. She is angry with herself and ashamed of how she has treated Vincent. Catherine knows that she is the one responsible for the events of the evening. If she had only heeded Vincent's warning and trusted him. . . trusted her intuition. . . Would the events have ended differently? Vincent would not have Stephen's blood on his hands and Stephen would not be fighting for his life.

Catherine knew that Stephen was dangerous. Her reaction to Jenny's news that Stephen was looking for her made her uncomfortable and tense. The good times she remembered were over-shadowed by the fights they had and the ultimate end of their relationship years before. She knew Stephen was possessive and domineering and Catherine was weary, but not weary enough. Her heart over-ruled her head as Stephen piled on the emotional baggage. (I heard a radio station DJ say just this morning that "Emotion forms its own type of logic.") She wanted to "be there" for Stephen as a friend and Vincent was warning her not to be. She became defensive and silently questioned Vincent's motive, misinterpreting it as jealousy. (He may have felt, deep, deep down, jealous or even envious of the relationship Catherine shared with Stephen, but Vincent would never let those dark feelings mar his love for her. Vincent would never let her know of those feelings. (Perhaps, deep down, Catherine knew.???))

Catherine forgot for a moment that Vincent's love for her is unconditional, he knows her heart and his trust is unwavering. He has only her best intentions at heart. His love has a purity that she has never experienced before. Vincent does not react as she would expect and she does not seem to know how to handle it or make amends.

Vincent stands quietly beside her. I think he is more injured by Catherine's mistrust then the guilt of attacking and almost killing Stephen. He is not ashamed of his role as Catherine's protector. He did what needed to be done.

*******

How did Vincent know?

Catherine: ...How did you know?

Vincent: I knew...because... somehow, somewhere deep inside, you—you must have known.

The strength of the bond is also shown at work in this episode and a new facet to the bond is revealed. First the Bond is like a compass, no matter what the distance, the beat of Catherine's heart and soul will lead Vincent to her. He knows all the emotions she is conscious of and those she may not be.

Second, I think the pull of the bond enabled Catherine to stop Vincent as he was lost in his attack on Stephen. It was more then her feeble strength that was able to pull Vincent away, reach him, and stop him.

Third, the Bond is working through dreams, a precognitive ability in Vincent. My understanding of the Bond is that it works on an empathic level, Vincent senses Catherine's emotions keenly. I accept the workings and whisperings of the dream; however, I question the "timing" of the dream in the episode. Vincent has the dream before there is any "known" danger to Catherine, (I think this is just a TPTB goof.) How would Vincent know of danger if he did not "feel" it in Catherine first? Vincent tells Father she is the source and here at the end of the episode, Vincent says he knew because Catherine subconsciously knew. It would make more sense if the knowledge of Stephen about to reenter her life were the turmoil in Catherine's soul that sparked the dream in Vincent. (I guess this is how I reconcile myself to these thoughts.)

*****

Two cents— Midnight Rose

Fever

I thought this was a very good episode. We are given another glimpse of the Tunnel community and see what binds this group of people together—friendship, commitment, loyalty, and generosity. We are also reminded of how fragile this hidden community is and how quickly dissention and selfishness can under-mind and destroy everything that has been created.

*****

Tangent: What makes one "feel" wealthy? What are the "true" treasures in one's life? I think these are questions for those who have nothing and those who have everything. Can we honestly answer? Do circumstances dictate our response?

*****

The Tunnels are a community that is not rich by monetary definitions, but rich in the spirit of love, friendship, compassion for others, loyalty to each other, and generosity to all. As Lori pointed out in her post, life Below is based in part on need, necessity, and a certain reliance on others and the "work together for the good of everyone" attitude is key to their survival. It takes going the extra mile to meet the needs of others with an outpouring of compassion and generosity. And going even a step further, to do things for others simply out of friendship and love. This is where the Tunnels are 'rich' and they would not exist without the spirit of generosity from within the tunnel-dwellers and the Helpers.

*****

I love the opening scene with Catherine passing out a few “odds and ends”---some with the price tags still attached. She loves this special community and they are her family. She has carefully chosen who is to receive each gift. (I wonder how often Father wore his sweater “for skiing”? LOL) Did you notice how everyone’s eyes lit up as she passed things out?

I thought Mouse was sweet when he so shyly presents Catherine with his gift.

*****

I liked TM’s post on the comparison of generosity and greed, "..how one opens a heart to others and the other closes it off." This is so true. Unselfish giving brings joy and happiness to all the parties involved, but greed and selfishness isolates the person and it becomes a lonely nightmare.

I don't think the Tunnels are a Utopian society, and the people there are only human. The world Above has either cast them aside, taken everything from them, or circumstances that they could not bear has driven them to the edge of despair and anger. They have come with nothing. Below they have found hope, healing, a home, a renewed reason for living, and a new philosophy for living, They have found a place to belong. They have found a way to feel 'rich' in their lives and in their hearts even though by Above's standards they still have "nothing".

But this does not mean that all are "content" in their lives. I think that there are those that wish or dream of the possibilities of "more" and "only if." Yes, Cullen is very generous in his carvings for the community and making something for others brings him happiness, but he longs for something just for himself. He feels the world owes him, the treasure is his way out, and greed eclipses all reason. I think when he knifes Mouse, that he realizes the nightmare he has created and works to find a way out and redeem himself.

I think everyone who came in contact with the treasure started out with a moment of selfish greed. Mouse finds the treasure, but only sees its usefulness as "stuff for gadgets and gismos." At first, he keeps the ship and treasures a secret, protecting his "taking". Cullen and Winslow get caught up in the excitement of finding more and making sure they have found it "all" and keeping it "all" together. Jamie and the children want to be a part of this 'find'. It is Mary who first suggests giving some the treasure away---Ah…I think that is where the trouble began… They are happy to have found the treasure, but share it? Share it with the Helpers, who give so much of their own merger livelihoods. Sell it for medicine, food, and things that the Tunnel community desperately needs.

Cullen thinks it "belongs" to those who found it and worked for it. Winslow knows that the treasure belongs to the whole community. Mary sees beyond the community. Even Father wrestles with it, its important historical value, and he is accused of staking a claim. Vincent's reminder that anything they do with this treasure will put the Tunnels at risk physically and destroy what they have fells on dead ears. As the dissentions continue, the 'visions of wealth" works its evil and threatens the very foundation of the Tunnel community. Slowly, the pros are outweighed by the cons but it isn't until Mouse is knifed by one of their own and then the danger brought to their doorstep that everyone begins to come to their senses and see what Vincent and Father have been cautioning against all along. Greed had blinded them all to different degrees but common sense, logical arguments, and the 'true' spirit of community return and save them.

*****

A note on Vincent:

Vincent seems to be the only one not caught up in the spiral of emotions, greed, and dissention. He sees the wealth, he sees its potential for good, and he understands what this treasure could mean. Yet, he is distant enough to quickly realize all the dangers of the treasure. Perhaps, he has the ability to quickly analyze a situation and view it from all potential angles as he does with every other aspect of his life. Perhaps, Lori (in her ED post) is right, Vincent has the most at stake here if the Tunnels crumble. He will have no home or it will change dramatically.

I like the scene in the ship when his voice alone brings everyone to attention and that they respect his authority.

I also like the moment with Cullen on the stairs of the Abyss. Cullen had been cruel to him in Father's chamber, yet Vincent shows Cullen how much he loves him, forgives him, and returns him to the tunnel community in a fierce embrace.

I also like the final scene when Vincent stops the community from letting the treasure defeat them and letting the destruction of it seal their fate. The treasure can still do good—maybe not for them—but others like them. I thought it was a fitting end.

****

Fever: Original vision vs. shown episode

In "Above and Below. A Guide to Beauty and the Beast" episode commentary with the writers/producers of BATB, George Martin remembers that there were a number of disputes with this episode and that a couple of major scenes were changed. He felt that the edits weakened the impact of the message that the writers were trying to convey in the story.

The first change was the ending at the abyss. Martin says, "The model for "Fever" is basically The Treasure of the Sierra Madre. Thematically, the idea is that money is inherently corrupting, and the discovery of this treasure corrupts even the idyllic tunnel community. In the end, led by Vincent, they realize this, and chuck the money into the abyss..........Ron's (Koslow) argument was that “it made our tunnel community look bad.....My feeling is that we were saying worse things about the tunnel community when we give it away. What does it say here? It says that the tunnel community is too morally flawed to handle this money in a sane way, but the nuns are somehow better, and it undercuts the whole thematic part of the money (as corrupting)..... .I think the irony of the situation and the whole thematic thrust required us to throw the money into the abyss." He finishes with saying the original ending would have been stronger, although a little darker and have had a slightly different message.

The second change was Catherine's line, "It's a disease from my world. Its called Greed.." The original line was, "It's a disease from my world. Its called Money." In Martin's mind this was a bad change. He says, "The original line goes straight to what the episode is all about, which is the statement about all money— "all money"—is inherently corrupting. That a money-based society by its very nature is a corrupt society; and that our people in the Utopian underworld who have a non-based society, a society based on human relations, interactions and people helping each other, have a superior society. By changing it to 'greed', it basically says, 'Well, there are some greedy people in the world."

MR: What do you think? Would it have been better for the tunnel community to throw the treasure into the abyss?

BATB episodes are often looked upon as morality plays, lessons about life wrapped in a fairytale. From Martin's perspective I can see his point, if the theory is that all money is corrupting, one has no choice but destroy it and believe the world Above is corrupt. I guess I find the thought of "all money is corrupting" a little harsh. One must decide what they want to "do" with money—how they 'feel' about it. Do they get greedy and want more money, more power, "more" at any cost? Or do they see money as a way to meet the needs in their lives and perhaps be generous to others also in need? I think the handling of money is a matter of perspective. Whether money is used for good or bad is decided by the minds that control it.

Do I think the treasure should have been thrown into the abyss? I don't think so. I have to agree with Vincent, it would have been admitting total defeat and a valuable resource for money would be lost. I think it was a harder choice to give it "all" away and not benefit from the treasure at all.

On that note, I remember someone commenting that giving it to the nuns would not have benefited them either…the treasure would be treated as antiquities. Maybe they would get a “finder’s fee” or benefit from an auction, but without origins that treasure would only have some historical value. Hum…

MR: Does the change in Catherine's line from "Its called Money." To "Its called Greed." change the impact of the line?

Did Catherine's line lose impact? I don't think so. I think "greed" and "want" were more of the driving force behind Cullen's actions rather then the "having" money. I think the corruption part would have come later if we had watched him squandered it all. Thorp, on the other hand, was totally motivated and corrupted by his greed.

Hum......

*****

Two Cents---

Midnight Rose

PS: Snippet I found in the TV guide years ago and tucked between the pages of "Above and Below":

"With everything being done by committee, by the time you get a script it has 15 sets of fingerprints on it

and it's a compromise—everything's a compromise."—Author unknown

Everything is Everything

This episode is not one of my favorites. I usually watch the "good parts" version—the Vincent and Catherine parts and the Vincent and Father parts.

Now, I don't know anything about Gypsy life, laws, traditions, legends, or lore. I sort of look on it like I do the Voodoo in "Dark Spirit." —since I don't know much about it, I will suspend belief and believe the context that the writers wished to stereotype for their story.

******

Fan asked a series of questions:

Radcliffe: What does the title mean?

MR: I think TM’s post summed it up brilliantly…

Everything is everything. "All that matters is what matters." "Everything" encompasses 'All". All or nothing. There are only absolutes, black and white. There is no room for 'gray' or compromise. The laws and traditions that a gypsy lives and dies by leave no room for exceptions. Father is partly right, that the gypsy culture needs its laws and traditions, because in a gypsy's transit lifestyle, it would be the only constant in their lives. However, as Vincent points out, the laws and traditions do no one any good if common sense and compassion do not rule them.

Radcliffe: 1) Vincent intentionally appearing Above. Is it okay for him to pretend to be a ghost or apparition? He is assuming these are very superstitious people and will listen to him. Also, Father is not the least bit alarmed that he went above and into someone's house. All he says is that he is glad Vincent "made his plea".

MR: I wondered the same thing. I don't know what the grandfather must have thought when he saw this "spirit" appear in his room. Vincent's gallant plea is from the heart and speaks a truth that the grandfather cannot ignore. Beyond laws and traditions there has to be a higher ruling---love.

This seems very dangerous for Vincent and Father would have---should have--- had a fit and yelled at Vincent about being so foolish. Or perhaps, Father and Vincent had already had this discussion and Father had no choice but to resign himself to Vincent's actions and pray. I get this feeling by how Father says "You look like you have not slept," that he knew Vincent was considering going Above to visit the grandfather and is a little surprised that he actually did. Or perhaps, Father knew Vincent's plea would have fallen on deaf ears, knew Vincent would have tried anyhow before he could let it go, and Father was glad his son was home safe. Hum...

Radcliffe: 2) Vincent shows that he can communicate with animals. Yet we never see him use this talent again. (Not even in 'zines) Does this conflict with the view we have of him being all or mostly human and so it is conveniently forgotten? Is it a "mistake" on the writer's part? ...A lot of humans have a way with animals, this could just be a sign of his super-sensitivity.

MR: Communicate. Intimidate. Dominate. Claire made a logical point in her post and I lean in her direction. Vincent understands the language of the animal world; it is part of his heritage. Animals react through instinct and take cues from the body language of fellow creatures and from their environments. The dogs attacked Catherine because they were guarding their turf. Vincent met them on their terms and dominated them because they instinctively knew he was the 'alpha male' and submitted to his presence. Perhaps there was some 'other' communication going on. Hum...

(IMHO)I have always felt that Vincent is the perfect blend of his human and leonine natures. He would not be who and what he is without this duality. I think Vincent has the added advantage of mixing his 'animal' instincts with the intelligence of his humanity and this gives him a bigger, sharper interpretation of his 'world'. I think that TPTB had to down-play his 'other' nature, so that Vincent appeared as human as possible. Back in the BATB world, I think Vincent suppressed many of his 'animal' tendencies because he wanted people to see beyond that 'fierce' exterior (A 'mask' in his mind that he could not personally accept) and see the man within. For me, Vincent is a fascinating character. There are so many complicated layers to him, physical, emotional, and mental.

Radcliffe: What is the message of the story? Tradition vs. Love? It's interesting how Father sides with the grandfather on the side of Tradition (with a capital T) in his conversation with Vincent. Vincent however, sees the human side of the story.

MR: A leader himself, Father sees laws and traditions as consistent and stabilizing elements that are the foundation of a successful community and society. Without rules there would be chaos. The gypsy traditions have been passed down through the centuries and through countless generations. For so long, this is the way things have been run that no one questions the 'rightness' of the laws and traditions. The 'coldness' of the laws comes from their unyielding absoluteness, if you change it or compromise it, it is viewed as weakening it. Or perhaps, it is for the 'better' good of the whole community rather then for a singular member that the law and tradition stand.

Vincent: "..rejected by his own flesh and blood... .but the cost.. .to be abandon by those you love...The pain would be unbearable."

Vincent speaks not only in reference to Tony, but also about himself. Vincent was abandon, rejected by those who bore him into the world. Thankfully, he has only known love and been brought up in a community that loves and embraces him. Yet, Vincent knows what it is to be "on the outside", his differences set him apart, isolate him even in the mist of his family. To be rejected by those who keep him safe would be unbearable to him, because he has no where else to go. Abandonment would mean his death.

Family. Belonging. Being surrounded and nurtured by those who love you and those you love is important to Vincent. He questioned the 'tradition' of Mouse's Silence, yet he was caught in the same dilemma Tony's grandparents are—this was the law of the community. Without the community you were alone. Without the support of those you loved, your life was dark and cold. Vincent cannot understand the 'coldness' in a tradition when it eclipses all logic, common sense, and compassion for others. He champions Tony like he does Devin and Charles.

Radcliffe: What about the theme of Truth vs. Lies? Tony uses deceit to get his way just as Uncle Vic did - so is it OK to deceive sometimes?

MR: This is a tough question to answer if you really want to be honest. No. It is not right to lie and use deceit even if it is the only way (that we see) to get to the truth. Yet we are all human and use this ruse from time to time to keep ourselves out of trouble or get our own way.

I don't think lying got Tony very far. He lies to Catherine and she should have marched him off to juvenile hall. He decides to tell the truth, no matter how bazaar it sounded and it made her pause and listen, and help him. Ok, so Tony needs a little help in the 'truth' department.

Vincent tells Tony, "The truth is your strength." In essence, “no more lies, just stick to the truth.”

Tony has been told the truth, but it is only his word against Vic's and he has no physical proof. Just the thought of the letter and what it could say is Vic's undoing, the psychological power of the letter brings out the truth. If the letter had not been "read" by Tony, would it have had the same power over Vic? I think the power of suggestion brings out his guilt, rather then a lie or deceit. Hum...

Radcliffe: Also, Catherine shows an unbelievable amount of trust for a kid that has treated her so badly, I'd doubt if most people would respond as she did.

MR: Is Catherine crazy? How can she even begin to trust this kid? That was my first thought too. I would have hauled him off to the police. (But then we would not have a story.) Tony could have mugged her and never shown his face again, yet here he was at her door---that would have peaked her curiosity. She does have a soft spot in her heart for kids. I think she stopped and listened because she has been taught by the Tunnel Creed to help others. Sometimes, you have to give a stranger the benefit of a doubt and help them, just a little trust. Catherine did verify Tony's story.

I find it interesting that Catherine tells Vincent that she will have to turn Tony over to Social Services and that she does not suggest that Tony could go Below. She trusts Tony but only so far. Hum...

Radcliffe: "A gypsy never forgets" -I really think Tony should have been brought back in a subsequent episode. This line really begs for it. Any ideas as to how he should/could have been brought back? Also, I noticed that it is often said that an elephant never forgets and Catherine read "The Elephant's Child" story to Tony.

MR: In the "Unseen Beauty and the Beast" book I have, one of the unscripted episode ideas was to bring a teenage Tony back in an episode called "All That Matters, Matters." He is caught up in a love triangle with another gypsy boy and girl. Shades of "China Moon”, except that neither boy ends up with the girl. Would have been interesting.

*****

Other thoughts:

Like I said, this is one of the episodes that I tend to watch only the Vincent and Catherine moments—the "good parts" version.

Vincent, Father, and Geoffrey presenting the scene from Romeo and Juliet. I love Father’s gentle prompting of Geoffrey. Vincent is reading Romeo’s part.

Vincent dressed in his finest ruffled shirt. Beautiful. Handsome. <sigh>

Catherine's shy smile as she recalls Vincent reading to her the first time.

Vincent talking to the grandfather and then his anger at the circumstances he is powerless to change. He has such passion and compassion in his beautiful soul.

Vincent subduing the dogs and the huge hug Catherine gives Vincent, the dogs all but forgotten. How much absolute trust she has in Vincent. She knows she is safe with him.

Vincent crashing through the door to free Tony. His "There's never been anyone like me before." Is there a smile in that voice?

When Vincent reaches for Catherine and draws her near for a hug. This is the first time I recall Vincent instigating a hug. <big satisfying sigh>

*****

Two cents— Midnight Rose

To Reign in Hell

In consulting my sources on this episode, TRIH was to be "a tribute to any and all of the quest myths." The writers started with a very ambitious script wanting to take Vincent on "a very mythic journey", but because of budget restraints and time allotments much of the original script had scenes that had to be cut. (Sounds like TRIH would have been a good candidate for a two hour episode.) Whereas fandom thinks this is one of the best episodes of the series, the writers and producers felt it lacked—not to mention the staff uproar over who was going to die. <frown> "Because all great quests have a death/sacrifice." (***source: Above and Below: A Guide to BATB. "The B&B Episode Guide.")

This story is a quest—Vincent seeks to save Catherine from the clutches of evil. This story is mythic—traveling the magical landscape of twisting pipes and tunnels, vast caverns, underground rivers, and paths into the bowels of the earth. It is also the journey of three companions, best friends, seeking a singular goal and willing to risk everything for what they believe in—love.

*****

Vincent, Winslow, and Pascal:

V: "You are my friends.. .I accept your help.. .Then we go, together, the three of us."

More important then the destination is the journey in the company of friends. We are reminded that Vincent is part of a community, he has grown up with these men, and they are his best friends. They love and care for each other. Vincent would have gone alone, but through the wisdom and common sense of his friends, he agrees to their companionship. He reminds them of the dangers but Winslow and Pascal agree that the risks are worth taking. Along with the safety of numbers, comes the gentle comfort offered by friends when one of their own is suffering—and Vincent is worried and fearful for Catherine's safety. I think Vincent found solace in Winslow and Pascal's presence.

I love the banter between Winslow and Pascal. First, as they listen to the pipe and share the stethoscope, and then at the rope when Pascal hesitated to jump. <grin>

Unfortunately, there was no way to see that the journey would result with Winslow's death. Vincent has named himself the protector of all those he loves. He let his friends come with him and he feels he is responsible for their safety—and responsible for Winslow's death. Even with Narcissa' warning echoing in his ears, Vincent accepted that there would be peril and death, he could not have known that it would hit so close to home. He could not turn back as Narcissa suggested, and neither would Winslow and Pascal if asked.

Vincent collapsed to his knees in shock at death of his friend. How he loved him. Vincent's eulogy was everything that Winslow was, gruff with compassion and strong in his love for others. Winslow knew what he lived for and, if given the choice, he would have given his life so that Vincent and Catherine's love would survive and so that the tunnels would survive against evil. His death was sudden, but he knew that it was right for him to be on this journey. (He was a great character and I am sad that TPTB had to kill him off.)

*****

Tangent: I still have to wonder why Paracelsus was never mentioned to Vincent before the “The Alchemist.” Winslow and Pascal remember John Pater and they are Vincent’s contemporaries and childhood friends. I do get the feeling that Winslow and Pascal are older then Vincent by maybe 5 to 10 years. Winslow remembers Paracelsus living in the tunnels and Pascal mentions that he had read Paracelsus’ papers. My second question is why Vincent has never read Paracelesus’ papers IF they are still in Father’s Library somewhere. Pascal read them…maybe Father confiscated them. Hum….

*****

Paracelsus and Vincent:

Paracelsus has kidnapped Catherine to lead Vincent away from the safety of the tunnels and Father's influence. Paracelsus says that he seeks to destroy Vincent because (1) he is the protector of the Tunnels and Father and this prevents him from returning to "his home" and (2) as "retribution" for the burns that scar Paracelsus' face. If he wanted to simply destroy Vincent, why not just come out and kill him? An ambush or cave-in would easily serve the purpose. Why all the "games"? I think Paracelsus in all his evil genius and intellect is after something else—the twisted fun of toying with an intelligent being and/or to prove his "theory".

He tells Catherine that "once a person is visited by violence, everything changes." In "What Rough Beast", Paracelsus says of Vincent, "…he tries to BE a man... And in that denies his own greatness." Tony Jay says of Paracelsus, "Paracelsus' own philosophy about evil is that you must own up to it and claim it as part of your glory...the Underground people underestimate Vincent, and therefore don't let him be his own natural self. He's an animal..." I think Paracelsus is in awe of what he perceives as Vincent's greatness and raw animal power and sees the potential of the frightening force Vincent is (the beast unleashed by the drug in The Alchemist). Oh, how great and powerful Vincent could become if he shed his humanity! Oh, to be the master of such animal might!

On the other hand, Vincent is clearly Jacob's son and what better way to destroy your enemy then to destroy what is most dear to that enemy—and crush the innocent party in the process. I have never been sure if Paracelsus' goal was to prove to Vincent that he is truly an animal or if it was to become the "father" of such an awesome fighting machine—animal instinct directed by human intelligence.

What Paracelsus needed to find was Vincent's weakness. I think he already knew that Vincent was a delicate balance of man and beast and he had only to find the key to tip the scale.

Plan A: As a person with unknown origins, the truth of Vincent's beginnings is knowledge any orphan

would be longing to know. It gave Vincent pause in "The Alchemist" and Paracelsus tries it again. Plant

just enough doubt in Father's story and make yourself the "lost" parent. Vincent is not swayed.

Plan B: Paracelsus' second try is more destructive, kill the love of Vincent's life and see if that will turn

"the man" into a raging beast. In the mist of despair and loss, the creature could be re-molded into

something of Paracelsus' design. Paracelsus was not out to kill Vincent, I think he wanted to try and make

Vincent HIS son first. If Vincent could not be swayed, then destroy him.

Plan C: The Trilogy. Prove to Vincent he was a beast and let that knowledge help Vincent destroy himself.

*****

Tangent: Part of looking at Paracelsus at this point in the series is to forget what we are NOT supposed to know yet. We don't know the story of Vincent's discovery. Paracelsus could have been involved and may have laid claim to Vincent. I get the feeling that Father refused to give John the child. This may have been the last straw that led to Paracelsus' exile. What were the circumstances that got him exiled? What is Paracelsus' background? Why was he in the tunnels? Paracelsus raises more questions then answers. We never really find out.

*****

Vincent and Paracelsus:

Vincent's goal is to find Catherine and rescue her from Paracelsus' clutches. Just as he is feeling responsible for Winslow's death, Vincent must feel some responsibility for Catherine's kidnapping. Paracelsus knows of her. Why? Vincent loves her. His love for her, his relationship with her, has put her in danger as a pawn of this evil man. Paracelsus knows Vincent will stop at nothing to free her and this will bring Vincent into his trap.

Paracelsus baits Vincent again with his version of Vincent's discovery and his "true" parent. You can almost see Paracelsus twisted hope that Vincent just might believe him, like Paracelsus had convinced himself. But Vincent knows Paracelsus has lied to him before and this time Vincent is armed with a "truth beyond knowledge" and is not swayed by such empty words. An evil man cannot know what love is.

*****

Vincent and Erlik (henchman, brute, Simple One)

Oh! Vincent knocked senseless! Vincent slung at the wall like a rag-doll! Almost defeated twice! Be still my heart! Has Vincent met his match in this mindless, witless brute? The first time, Erlik caught Vincent off-guard with his strength and size. If Jamie had not repelled Erlik back with her arrows, Vincent would have finished the brute off there. In Paracelsus lair, Vincent knew what he was up against and this was a fight to the death, Vincent prevailed. If you think about it, Vincent has always had the hesitation of surprise to dispatch his victims (someone pointed out.) This fight was different. They were evenly matched and the fight would not end until one of them was dead.

There has been a bit of discussion on this henchman's size and strength and why he is so strong. I agree with the rest of you. I think that Erlik is a big strong lug that Paracelsus has taught to stand up and fight his enemy. There only is victory or death. It helps to have no "common sense" upstairs (LOL) and I think Paracelsus has used drugs to enhance Erlik's strength, deaden him to pain, and keep him submissive to his whims. I get a chill to think that IF Vincent had fallen into Paracelsus hands as a baby, what a dark ferocious creature Vincent would have been. (Yes, I have read the fic, "Otherwise." Chilling. Even Paracelsus' influence on the tunneldwellers in "Remember Love" is chilling.)

*****

Tangent: Someone mentioned remembering that Vincent bit Erlik in the neck because his arms were pinned. This is not in the episode. It is found in the BATB novel, “Bright Spirit Descending” by Nan Dibble. This was her solution to how Vincent got free of the brute because Vincent’s arms were pinned to his sides where his claws were wreaking havoc to Erlik’s torso, but not enough to get free of the death grip. In the scene, Vincent sinks his teeth into the brute’s neck, Erlik let go, and Vincent then delivers the final slash to the brute’s neck. This image is disturbing, but (to me anyway) it made sense because, primal and instinctually, Vincent would use all his “weapons” to survive.

*****

Catherine and Paracelsus:

On the surface, Catherine's role is mostly the "damsel-in-distress." She is kidnapped from her own balcony, most likely drugged for most of the journey, and comes face to face with the tunnel's formidable enemy. It could make anyone crumble—but not "Vincent's Catherine". If Paracelsus was hoping for a weak, pleading victim to torture, he picked the wrong soul. Catherine turned out to be a most perplexing foe and antagonist. Who is this fragile woman from Above, who dares to love a beast? Who is this woman who shows know fear? Who is this woman unafraid to die? Paracelsus cannot conquer Vincent and he cannot conquer this strong, intrepid (fearless, dauntless) woman.

Catherine meets Paracelsus' challenges on an intellectual level, with reason. And with something Paracelsus did not expect—pity. She demands to know his reasons behind the evil he does. Later, she tells him that his reasons are foolish, a life wasted on hate and destruction. A life that had had such promise, a life that at one time had done such good for others. Wasted. Tragic. Evil turns a deaf ear.

I love the moment when Paracelsus is listening to/for Vincent's arrival, and says "Vincent is close." Catherine quietly answers, "I know." Paracelsus turns and looks at her. By the expression on his face, her words were strange to him. How would she know? On the other hand, I think he may have put two and two together and realized that there was some sort of silent communication or connection between Vincent and Catherine. (He uses Catherine's "call of fear" to summon Vincent to her aid in The Trilogy)

*****

Catherine and Vincent:

Kidnapped and delivered to Paracelsus, Catherine quickly realizes she is but a pawn to lure Vincent. She cannot bring herself to "call" him through the bond by her fear, because it would mean his certain and quick death. She centers herself, calms herself, and refuses to give into her fear. She would rather die and not have Vincent find her, rather then be the one who leads him into a trap.

So the question arises: Did she "mute" or "cut-off' the bond, so Vincent could not follow her? I think that for part of the journey, Catherine was unconscious or semi-conscious. The rest of the time the bond still flowed freely between them and Vincent was using the bond as a compass to her whereabouts, but she controlled her fear so that it would not spur him along blindly.

Vincent tells her that she felt "lost" to him; although I don't think she was. I think that her fear is a stronger, more focused beacon within the bond. Vincent is concerned that he knew she was in danger, but was unable to sense Catherine's fear and unable to find her quickly and protect her. He did not understand why she was not afraid, until he realizes why she refused to give into her fear. He knew it would draw him. I think her words struck him to the heart, she loved him so much that she was willing to sacrifice everything for him—just as he was willing to sacrifice everything for her.

"And the truth... is love."

*****

Two cents—

Midnight Rose

** TRIH is the episode focused on in Nan Dibble’s novel, “Bright Spirit Descending” on the Helper’s Network(USA) website. This story is told in flashback while Vincent is on his journey. It covers Vincent being found as a babe by Anna, Paracelsus’ unhealthy obsession, the abuse of the toddler (The Premise being Paracelsus raised Vincent for several years before Anna turned Vincent over to Father), Anna’s death, and Paracelsus’ exile.

Ozymandias

The Painted Tunnels are wonderful. The history of the Tunnels intertwined with the important happenings of Above. A great timeline of 40+ years that makes the Tunnels all the more "real."

Every society needs a historian, someone to leave a history behind for the following generations to inherit. Elizabeth paints the Tunnel's history. It makes me wonder if this is the only record of life Below or if someone else is also recording Tunnel history, a sort of community family tree. (I would think that photography would be expensive and dangerous to have developed. So, I can see an artist drawing portraits or depicting daily life.) When generations have faded into the past thousands of years from now, what will archaeologists think when they discover this hidden treasure of paintings?

I love Elizabeth. In her own words, you quickly understand this gifted woman's view of life, the depth of her character, and the importance of her work. She strikes me as being the eccentric, favorite Aunt of the Tunnels. Everyone comes to visit her, to look in on her, spend time with her, and share the stories and happenings of Below. Those paintings are her life's work, her legacy. She cannot leave them despite the danger looming overhead. Until her dying day, her "work" will not be finished.

It is so enduring and sweet, how she calls the grown Vincent "child." A boy she has watched grow into this incredible man. Her banter with Father makes me smile and her very serious comment about Mouse being "odd" is priceless. <grin>

*******

Father: "It is all being taken away from us, Vincent. The work of a lifetime...Everything we built, lost. "

The hidden community that Father has carefully built and nurtured for most of his life is threatened with destruction. Worse then having to simply relocate to lower tunnels, is the exposure of the community's existence to the world Above. The world Above will want to investigate the abandoned chambers and even if they left no trace of their existence, there would be tunnels and caves to explore. The Painted Tunnels would be a gold mine of discovery and Vincent's existence would be known. If the tunnels are discovered, there will be no place to hide below. There would be no safety anywhere.

I think Father is doubting whether he has the strength to rebuild again. Above his life was destroyed. Father came Below, he found a new life and a new calling. It will be hard to begin again. He carries the heavy burden of being the leader of a community of people counting on him, not to mention his concern for Vincent's safety. He sees nothing but the end of the tunnel world. They may be able to relocate or prevent discover for a time, but ultimately if the tunnels are discovered, they will never be able to live in peace and safety again.

*******

Vincent: "What is lost can be found again, built again...As long as we have each other our world will survive.”

Vincent is calm and resigned to the imminent discovery and destruction of his home. On the one hand, I would have to think that his appearance of calm in for the benefit of the panicked people around him. He has always been the pillar of strength, the voice of reason and common sense, and the keeper of hope. Vincent has the most to lose, the tunnels are his only home, and this is his world, his freedom. He has nowhere else to go. Despite, his own worries and fears, Vincent, as always, reaches out to those he loves to encourage them and give them strength and hope. All is not lost, as long as there is hope and love and each other.

On the other hand, I get the cold feeling that like other things in his life, Vincent believes the safety and the freedom of the tunnels is a temporary gift for him. The shelter of the tunnels provides sanctuary for now, but it is inevitable that it will be discovered. He feels blessed to be surrounded by those he loves and lovingly cared for, yet knows that in the end he will find himself alone. Even Catherine's love is a gift and Vincent is convinced that, someday, she too will leave him behind. Perhaps, he already has a plan of action ready for this day of destruction and is resigned to it. I know he will never let himself be found or caught, but it will be a cold, hard, and lonely existence.

As for Catherine's willingness to sacrifice herself and marry Elliot, to Vincent this is too high a price for Catherine to pay for keeping the Tunnels safe. He cannot accept her sacrifice for him, but he understands and is awed by the love behind her decision. Her actions are noble. It does not soften the heart-breaking blow of losing her to another. It crushes him where he stands.

I know he always seems to be reminding Catherine that their dream is temporary and reminding her that someday she will move beyond him and love another, but his main concern here seems to be that she marry for love. Vincent knows she does not love Elliot and knows that the marriage for Catherine will be a sad and lonely one, and this is not his dream for her future. At the same time, Vincent is convinced that any life with him will be one of unfulfillment for Catherine also. (Does this make sense?)

*******

Elliot: "I have waited my whole life to build this tower."

Elliot: "The tower is the most important thing in my life."

Just as Father had built his dream Below, Elliot is about to watch his lifetime of dreams and hard work pay off in the building of his tower. The tower will be a tribute to the city he loves and, probably more truthfully, a monument to himself. He has the ambition, power, and money to not let anything stand in his way in order to achieve his goal. Unfortunately, he does not care what he destroys in the process, whether it be demolishing a neighborhood, discrediting a community group, setting-up a known enemy, or use the woman he "says" he loves.

Vincent: "Now you see him as he truly is... good and bad, strong and weak...capable of great deeds and great wrongs. A human being."

Elliot is a complicated and contradictory man. He is charming and handsome. Ambitious. Gracious. Generous. He has the power and money to do great deeds, to do good. He is capable of love. He has a conscience and perhaps a little guilt in the "shady" business dealings he chooses to make. Yet, the same ambition, power, and money corrupt him. He will do what he must to succeed, even if it means deception. He may be charming, but he lacks integrity.

I think Elliot does love Catherine "as much as a man like Elliot can love." In Siege, we know he was head-over-heels in love with her. Even after she walked away, Elliot continued to contact her as mentioned in Shades of Gray. If he did not love her he would have refused to help her in Shades of Gray or let Mouse go here in Ozymandias. If it is not love, then he is definitely intrigued by Catherine and she is a worthy pursuit. Maybe there is some truth to Catherine's comment, Elliot is enjoying the chase. Since Siege, Elliot has been trying to prove himself to Catherine, he wants to be worthy of her love and approval, but his "shades of gray" keep haunting him.

Although Elliot does love Catherine, he cannot give up his lifetime of dreams and he makes a bitter, heart-wrenching choice. (He is absolutely astonished that she would ask such a thing. How dare she—) He cannot even let his love for Catherine stand in the way of his Tower. In the end, he loses everything because of the choices he made, because of his lack of integrity—no tower—no Catherine. He has lost himself.

*******

Catherine: "How can I stand by and watch your world be destroyed when I have the power to save it? "

I think Catherine is the central character of this episode. She is a woman of both Worlds and her loyalties to both are tested. She has named herself as the guardian of a secret world, while also being a champion of the law in her world, and these worlds collide, dividing her. As the episode progresses she becomes more and more desperate—to save both worlds.

Elliot has once again entered her life. He comes to the DA looking for help—innocent enough. Catherine is wary of Elliot's motives, because of his past "shady" business practices, yet gives him the benefit of the doubt. Elliot has cooperated with the DA as well as unknowingly enabled Catherine to save Vincent and Father. She feels she owes Elliot, there is goodness in him.

She cannot miss the pride in Elliot's eyes as he shows her his tower, his dream. This is his life. How can she not be just a little happy for him, even though she shares the same reservations about this huge tower as the rest of NYC.

She is saddened that Elliot does not wish to see the impact on the people. Remember that Catherine comes from corporate law and I think she understands the impersonal process and the questionable deals that have to be made to get a skyscraper built. Vincent helped her see the people of the city and they are more important then steel and concrete.

In the middle of all this, Elliot surprises her by professing his love. He says he is willing to do anything for her to make her happy. And Catherine puts that promise to the test. She is now so desperate to save the tunnels, she sees only one other option, one last possibility—offer Elliot the dream of loving her and she loving him in exchange for giving up his tower.

The scene where she tells Vincent her plan is heart wrenching. Her heart is dying, but she has made her decision. She is driven by her love for Vincent and she is willing to sacrifice her own dreams to save him. The emotional toll shows on her face, in her choked voice, and the tears that threaten to overflow. She holds herself together, until she rounds the corner. Then the tears fall and she almost runs back to the man whose heart she is breaking. But this hurt is for a noble cause in her mind and heart.

There is resolution but sadness in her eyes and voice when she talks to Elliot. She has yet to reconcile herself to the unfairness of killing one man's dream to save another. Just as heartbreaking must have been Elliot's ultimate rejection of her love for his tower. Not only could she still not save Vincent and his home, but Elliot's choice must have been a very personal rejection on her psyche.

In the end, Elliot destroyed his own dream with his own underhanded dealings and it brings the conclusion to the episode. All the episode heartache was, in hindsight, unnecessary. Did Catherine really think a man like Elliot would give up his building, his life's work, his dream—for her? This seemed to be an unrealistic possibility from the beginning (IMHO), but made for a good, emotional story.

The moral: How much is one willing to sacrifice for their dreams and their love for another?

*******

Thought: It just occurred to me that Catherine actually crushed the dreams of both men she cares about— Elliot's dream of his tower and Vincent's dream of loving her. She was able to restore the dream of one at the expense of the other.

Another Thought: Also, she is not being any more honest with Elliot, then Elliot is with her. They both have things to hide in order to "achieve their goal." They are both using each other. She is using his fondness of her, just as he is using her friendship for what he wants. Hum. ....

Question: During the scene where Catherine is telling Vincent that she is going to marry Elliot; what would have happened if Vincent had said, "Catherine, you can't marry Elliot. I love you. I have

been such a fool. Marry me and we will face what comes together", or some such thing. I am sure Vincent would be much, MUCH more eloquent. Would it have changed Catherine's resolve?

MR: Great question! I have thought about this question for awhile and, to be honest, I am not happy with the honest conclusion I came up within the context of the episode.

I am sure that Catherine has been waiting for Vincent to profess the depth and truth of his love. It is her greatest wish to hear those words. However, considering her desperation in finding a way to stop Elliot from building the tower, and her resolve in her "solution" before she ever faced Vincent; his proclamation now would only make her sacrifice more unbearable. She is trying to save Vincent's life and she sees no other way but to marry Elliot and she will see it through to the bitter end. Even if Vincent had professed his love before this, I think her resolve and choice would be the same. And I do not think she has time to think about either proposal because she needs to stop the blasting NOW and prevent exposure of the tunnels.

As for my happy answer? LOL To hell with Elliot and his tower! Catherine will chose to live her life walking beside Vincent, no matter where that road will lead or the dangers ahead.

I have read several fanfic considering what would have happened if Elliot had said yes to Catherine's proposal, stopped the tower, and married her. But never one that had Elliot building his tower and the consequences thereafter. Or what would happen if Elliot agreed to marry Catherine and then his "shady dealings" came to light, just like the end of the episode. Would that free Catherine of her pledge to Elliot?

I liked another suggestion I read somewhere, it was a proposed two-part episode idea, that would have had Elliot agreeing to Catherine's terms and then finding someway to stop the wedding. IMHO, I would hope that somewhere along the way, Elliot would realize that Catherine's love was not genuine and out of a "true" love for her, let her go. It would be an act of great unselfishness for someone like Elliot.

*******

Question: Why Vincent and Catherine cannot be together and why they never talked about it.

(Answer to Nea's question that became a mini discussion between MR and TM.)

MR: I cannot answer why Vincent and Catherine never discussed why they could never be together. I know that our fanfic writers and every fan have been trying to come to their own conclusions. And, maybe, that was TPTB's intention. I think it starts with TPTB vision of the show: to present a romantic, unrequited love relationship where it was impossible, (perhaps forbidden), for the couple to be together, it was destined to be achingly beautiful and bittersweet.

TM: Actually there is one time that the subject of them being together was discussed and that was in the episode Orphans. However, it was presented in generalities. Catherine has decided to go back Above and that she feels like she has failed Vincent in some way. Vincent responds and says, "It doesn't mean our dream can never be. It means only now is not the time." He continues by saying "now your destiny's in both worlds." Finally, Catherine asks if they will ever be together, truly together, and Vincent answers, "Only if and when we understand how great the sacrifices and, learn how large the fears and are able to move through them" and that the journey must be made with courage and with care. Each of them has their own set of sacrifices to make and their own fears to deal with before they are ready to truly be together and you have spelled them out beautifully in the following paragraphs. But that day will come, Vincent believes it, for he says that the dream is there and only time stands in the way of it becoming a reality. I know you have said that Vincent did not accept the thought of them ever having a permanent relationship but every once in a while he says something that makes me think that just maybe, he does believes it, deep inside his subconscious, especially after the episode, A Happy Life. I agree completely with your thoughts on TPTB.

MR: I think the reasons that Vincent and Catherine could not be together are both simple and complex. There are outward influences on their lives and they have their own uncertainties.

MR: First, they live in different and separate worlds; darkness and sunlight, poverty and plenty, hardship and ease. Vincent must live in his world and cannot live Above because of the dangers to him because of who and what he is. He has duties and obligations to his world that shelters him and protects him. Catherine "belongs" (Vincent's word) to the world Above. Her life is bound to a life of sunshine and privilege; her job gives her life purpose and meaning while helping others. She has become a liaison for both worlds. In many ways, the tunnels need her there. Can she give this all up? Maybe, TPTB see Catherine as a woman of one world or the other, they did not see how she could live as a woman of both (like the fans have).

MR: Second, all that implies to a relationship between a being who is uniquely different and a "normal" female. There are questions of Vincent's heritage, of who and what he is, and this is a bigger issue on some minds then on others. There are questions of whether their union is looked at as immoral or even forbidden, and this has come from the minds of TPTB or it may be within the realm of the BATB world itself. (Happily, as fans, we can make the BATB world what we want it to be.)

TM: I do think that this was the worry of the censors. How many times have we heard the term bestiality bandied about? To me, the idea is completely inane. Vincent, rather than being less than human, is so much more. Ignorance is the only excuse for this concept. It all goes back to the superficiality of appearance that so many people use to judge others.

MR: Third, because of the incident with Lisa, Vincent has his own fears and impossibilities to why he cannot be with Catherine. He has been brought up to fear his "beast" side, the raging, instinctual (normal for him) feelings within him. He fears himself, fears losing himself in passion and causing harm. Vincent feels it is impossible for him to love Catherine in any true physical sense, it will always be a spiritual union in his mind. He can only dream of being together with her.

TM: This IS Vincent's greatest fear, that he will harm Catherine. This is the fear that he must overcome. If he can get past this one, the dream is within reach for him. The others, such as his appearance and Catherine finding someone else, will fall along the wayside soon enough. He does face some sacrifices also. For example, if Catherine moves Below, his connection to the world Above will be diminished. I believe that one of his joys is experiencing the world Above through Catherine's eyes.

TM: While Vincent's concerns are mostly fears of some sort, Catherine, I think, is mostly looking at sacrifices. And those sacrifices become larger or smaller depending on which road they chose, will she live completely Below or remain a woman of both worlds with a home in both, if so, rather then facing sacrifice, she faces sharing her world with the man she loves. Your comment regarding her qualifications to come Below may be true but then again, if she continues to be a woman of both worlds, she wouldn't be a burden on the community but would be able to continue to help them in many ways. I guess with Catherine, a lot depends on whether or not she severs all ties wait Above. Whatever her choice, her heart will always be with Vincent and the sacrifices and fears she will face will fade away when faced with the reality of a life with Vincent.

MR: I know there are dozens of more reasons, each one more complex then the other. But in the context of BATB canon, I think these are the main "unspoken" questions.

MR: Two cents at the bottom of the ocean---

TM: Are we speaking gold doubloons? <grin>

*****

Two cents

Midnight Rose

The “Two Cents” essays are the sole property of the author, Midnight Rose, and are not to be duplicated or shared in any way, shape, or form except with the express permission of the author.

A Happy Life

When we first meet her in OUATINY, she is an unfulfilled high-society girl, bored and disillusioned with the shallowness of her life. She is a corporate lawyer in her father's firm and a "prize" on the arm of one of the firm's eligible bachelors. As plush and carefree life is, for Catherine it has no meaning, no focus, no purpose, other then to be what her peers expect her to be.

Her brutal attack and meeting Vincent is the first turning point. She cannot remain the person she was. She is not the person she was. Her life has to change and change it she has. The changes have been hard decisions and they have not come without a personal cost. But in the end, she knew these changes needed to take place and she is better person for it.

She is still trying to find her way and still trying to make all the pieces of her life fit back together. We have watched Catherine grow over the coarse of the episodes of Season 1, make the changes in her life, find strength within herself, and work though her doubts and fears. Gone is the cushy corporate job, Catherine works for the DA, the trenches of criminal law. She has found fulfillment in making a difference in the lives of others. She has watched her high society "friends" fall away, she has moved apart from her father, and, except for a few college friends and the new ones she has made at the office, she is alone in the world Above.

New suitors fall short of the man that she truly loves and this beautiful bittersweet dream is ultimately an "impossible" one. Vincent has convinced her of this and Catherine has no choice but to believe him. It is a heartache she carries on top of all the positive progress she has made over the last year.

Now, as A Happy Life opens, we discover how unsure Catherine really is about the drastic changes she has made in her life. She is looking back at all the shattered pieces, mostly mended, and questions the worth of all her struggles, hardships, and risks. She is wondering if she has made the "right" choices, will these choices make her "happy". The anniversary of her mother's death, the overwhelming loss, reminds her of how far she has had to come alone. She misses all the things that a mother and daughter would have shared. I think she misses the support that a mother would have brought as she made all the changes in her life. Her mother's one desire for her daughter was to have a "happy" life. Catherine ponders this parental expectation and becomes consumed by it. It is the measure by which she judges her life. What is the "expectation" for her life and does her life measure up? Does Catherine meet her mother's wish of a "happy" life for her? Does Catherine's life honor her memory? She wonders if her mother would be proud of the woman she has become. Catherine feels she has failed in her mother's wish somehow.

Catherine's biggest question is "What makes a life happy?" She longs for the security and simplicity of a life that echoes the one she once had in her own childhood surrounded by her mother's love and perhaps, the innocence and seclusion of her posh life before the attack. Catherine sees this dream of the ideal "happy life" in the lives of her friends who have a house, a husband, and children and realizes her life has become too complicated for her to reach that vision for herself. She never questions this vision thinking that it must be the only one to make her happy. She does not see other "possibilities" for a happy life, one she makes for herself and not out of the expectations of others.

Vincent immediately assumes the blame for her feeling this way. He feels it was his entrance into her life and the dream that they now share that has changed the coarse of Catherine's life away from the one she obviously longs for, a different life then the one she is leading. The secret and the bond they share prevent her from continuing the life that she might have had. "Our dream exists at the cost of all your other dreams", Vincent tells her. Catherine wants to believe their dream is worth it.

Catherine continues to spiral down into depression with these "unrealistic, idealistic" visions of her life forged by her mother's expectations. It is "impossible" for her to live up to that expectation. The attack changed her life forever. Catherine is physically, emotionally, and mentally exhausted. The grueling work schedule of the DA's office is taking its toll. Catherine has had to find her way alone in her life Above with only Vincent's influence and love to strengthen and encourage her along the way. The "happy" life seems far, far away and the only true happiness in her life is "impossible." Everything in her life reminds her that Vincent is not there to share it with her—and she is unhappy because she cannot share it with him. “It is the rest of my life that doesn’t seem to fit."

Vincent is convinced that the only way to end Catherine's heartache is to remove himself from her life, thereby releasing Catherine of their "impossible" dream and allow her to pursue the life Above she should live and that she apparently dreams of. While watching him walk away and leave her more alone is painful, I think he was right to do so because I do not think Catherine was ready to give up on any aspect of her life---not her life Above and not Vincent. I think he realized this and I think he knew Catherine did not have the strength to "end it" with him. For Vincent, Catherine's life Above was more important and she should not sacrifice anything in her life for him. He has his own vision of her living a "happy" life and believes that it cannot include him. Their "impossible" relationship was not worth her unhappiness Vincent set her free to help her find her own way, to fulfill her destiny as he sees it.

I think her dream of "possibilities" and her heart to heart talk with Nancy helped her resolve the conflict in her soul. Catherine's mother would be proud of her daughter; no matter what choices Catherine makes. Catherine found a way to stop looking at her life through the expectations of others—not her mother's wish and not Vincent's vision. She had to follow her own heart and believe in her own heart to find her "happy" life. She has found a new way to look at her life and make all the pieces fit. Where there was once "impossibilities", she now sees "possibilities." She knows that it will not be easy, but knows that her goal is to share her life—whatever it may be or wherever it may take them—with Vincent. It is worth everything---the joys and the sorrows. If only she can convince him.

(The kiss that should have been) <sigh>

*****

Two cents— Midnight Rose

The “Two Cents” essays are the sole property of the author, Midnight Rose, and are not to be duplicated or shared in any way, shape, or form except with the express permission of the author.

Chamber Music

Joe: ..More solid. You know? ... More a... down-to-earth kind of guy. You know what I mean? Catherine: I think I do.

I love the opening banter between Catherine and Joe. Big brother Joe offering Catherine advice on men and the kind of man she needs. Catherine makes him squirm now that he has opened his mouth on the subject. I think Joe is thinking along the lines of a man like him. Joe has no idea how close he has come to describe the man Catherine loves. Her shy smile is endearing as she answers truthfully with a hint of a secret kept.

Poor Joe trying to put shredded documents back together. LOL

*****

Catherine: I have been coming to concerts in the park all my life. It's strange to think there might have been nights we were listening to the same music... that you were so close!

The scene at the concert in the park is wonderful. Vincent and Catherine are spending time together, planned time together, time alone. This is a rare moment to see them happy and enjoying themselves. They are comfortable in each other's company and some of the underlying bittersweetness of their earlier rendezvous’ is no longer there. Since "Happy Life" their impossible relationship had found some simple possibilities. They are no longer standing at arm's length from one another, not daring to move forward in their relationship because their love "cannot be" and will someday "end". They have decided to go forward, howbeit very slowly, and embrace the joy of loving each other, enjoy being a couple, enjoy being together. As 2S progresses, there will be doubts, fears, and sacrifices to deal with, but I think Vincent and Catherine have decided that they "can be" and that they can no longer deny their hearts and their bond.

*****

Catherine: Vincent, it's raining!

I love Catherine's reaction to the rain. I think it just tickles her that it is raining Below. It's another magical moment to share with Vincent and share her happiness of being in love.

*****

Vincent: And now there is only the city...and the night...and me.

Tonight, Vincent finds his favorite perch that overlooks the city and fondly remembers the evening's activities. I guess I half expected him to return immediately Below, but I think he needs to touch the city, the world that Catherine lives in. Perhaps on this night, he is reluctant to leave Above and the happy memories that are there, thoughts of Catherine.

On the other hand, this scene reminds me of how alone Vincent is. He walks the streets of NYC alone. A prince in a land he cannot touch.

******

Vincent: Rolley???

Miss Kendrick: He does not know what he is playing. He is just copying what he has heard, like a little robot or parrot. He has no understanding...... ...It's a gift, but right now it is an empty gift.

Little boy lost. The rest of this episode is a character study of a lonely little boy and the broken man he has become. Before Eli finds him, Rolley has been fending for himself without the benefit of a family or a caring parent. His brother is not really watching out for him either. Rolley has only Rolley to count on.

Rolley is "empty" inside. He is emotionally starved for love. His gift is an "empty" gift because no one has encouraged him or told him that his talent is special and unique. It will take him a long time to accept love, praise, and family. He has to learn what it means to be part of a family. He has never known unconditional family love before and he does not know how to accept it and believe in it.

I think Rolley's gift of playing the piano is amazing, prodigies are precious and fragile creatures, but I think that sometimes the "gift" is seen and not the "person" behind it. Father, Eli, and Miss Kendrick see the "gift" and want to nurture it, mold it into greatness, As gifted as Rolley is I think that Miss Kendrick is correct in teaching him about his gift and teaching him how to make it greater by learning it correctly. But what about the boy being allowed to be just a boy? On the streets, he has grown up too fast and has lost his childhood. Was too much emphasis put on his gift and not on the needs of the boy himself? Was Rolley feeling that was his gift was his only worth? Below, he has found a place to belong and, in his own little mind, he must "perform" as a condition to stay. Vincent reminded Rolley that it was him they loved, but I do not think the boy was Below long enough to realize this and change his thinking before tragedy struck. He still clings to "only taking care of Rolley."

Rolley feels totally responsible for Miss Kendrick's death. In his mind, he cannot go back and face his new family, so he runs. I am sure that he is convinced that they will only send him away and he will be alone once more. He punishes himself. He is convinced his actions played an unforgivable part in Miss Kendrick's death. His gift now brings him pain, reminds him of what he has lost. He turns to drugs and alcohol to deaden the pain and serve out his "deserved" self-sentence. We can only imagine what the years on the street have been like for him and what trouble Anthony has gotten him into time and again.

Vincent tries to intervene, reminding Rolley that there are those who still love him, those who can help him, and those who do not hold him responsible for Miss Kendrick's death. "Come back to us," he pleads. There is a moment where you think Rolley just might return, but he does not. Hopefully, he will carry Vincent's message of love and hope with him and someday find the courage to help himself.

*****

Note. In the 3S episode, "In The Forests of the Night", Rolley does return to the Tunnels. He has been shot and seeks help. Father and Vincent help him detox. There is a great moment of decision on Rolley's part, he returns Above to get more drugs, but hears the "Moonlight Sonata" and returns Below, to try and put his wasted years behind him. Vincent offered Rolley hope in "Chamber Music" and "In Forests of the Night." Rolley helps restore Vincent's faith in hope.

*******

Vincent: He won't come back.

Catherine: But he knows now, that you'll wait for him, that you love him...and Vincent, as long as you do, there's hope.

Vincent is crushed that he cannot help this person he loves. The pain is etched on his face. Catherine gently warned him about the outcome, but is there by Vincent's side to remind him of hope. They cannot help everyone. Sometimes, a person cannot be helped until they wish to help themselves. The best Vincent and Catherine can do is give the people who cross their path their message of love and hope that someday that person will remember—and reconsider.

******

On a lighter note:

Father: Mouse, what did you do?......The concert platform, in the park…You disassembled a grand piano

under the concert platform in the park....... Then uh, maybe they won't... miss it?

This whole scene with Father, Mouse, and the piano has me in stitches every time I watch it. This is such a
ludicrous situation, yet so much like Mouse. Poor Father—His final "Maybe they won't... miss it?" is
priceless. LOL

*****

Final comments:

I love the music in this episode. "Moonlight Sonata" is one of my favorite classical pieces. (I actually learned to play it on the piano, but this was after I had memorized it note for note. I never did learn to read music, which is a shame. I am limited in what I can play just like Rolley.)

The "flashbacks" that tell the story of Rolley are well done. Everyone is younger—Father and Mary. I noticed that Vincent's hair, especially his bangs, is shorter and more unruly. He looks like he does not have stubble on his chin and muzzle. Hum...

While this was not a Vincent and Catherine centralized story, I thought this was a very good powerful dramatic episode.

*****

Two cents— Midnight Rose

The “Two Cents” essays are the sole property of the author, Midnight Rose, and are not to be duplicated or shared in any way, shape, or form except with the express permission of the author.

Remember Love

I have to admit that I had never seen the movie "It's a Wonderful Life" until after this episode. So, I originally enjoyed the episode for what it presented without any preconceived notions. The premise of "What the world would be like without you" is a common enough plot device.

*****

I love the opening scene with Vincent and Catherine at the Chamber of the Falls. Once again we are treated to seeing them spending time together, time unmeasured, time for just the two of them.

Vincent is reading and gets so caught up in his imagining of the farm scene described that he stops in mid-sentence. Can we really understand what life must be like for him to never be able to experience life's simple pleasures, to see all those things that most folk take for granted? He shares his longing to experience those things and Catherine adds to his experience by taking him on another journey through her own memories of the outdoors. He cannot go to those places himself, so Vincent has learned to live the experience through others and their words. I love how his eyes light up like a child's.

In a bold moment, Catherine wonders aloud---Why can't Vincent be granted this dream? She has the ways and means to make it happen and it would mean so much to her to give him this wonderful gift---a moment in the mountains and in the sunshine. At first Vincent does not dare to even dream of the possibility, he rejects it. But as Catherine's plan is laid out, you can see in his eyes that he begins to catch hold of her dream and begins to believe in the possibility. Vincent says he wants to do go because Catherine wishes it, but I think a small part of him also wants the chance to experience it for himself.

Vincent tries to "discuss" his plans with Father. I think he was looking for Father's blessing not necessarily Father's permission. Vincent has decided to go and will go. You knew that Father would hear nothing of it. Father's over-protectiveness, his own fears, and own prejudices about the world Above are what drive Father's argument. He will come up with every reason he can think of to stop Vincent from going.

First, Father blames Catherine for the idea. She is the bad influence, the irresponsible one, too much like Devin. She is tempting Vincent with possibilities that Father could not/would not give him. There is also the "unspoken danger" of her loving Vincent and the thought of what could happen if the two of them are alone.

Second, Father reminds Vincent of his importance to the community, as if Vincent's very existence in the tunnels is his son's most important calling. Vincent knows his place, he knows he is respected and loved, and that those around him look to him for protection. Vincent has his own sense of "sole" responsibility, but those things should not be to the exclusion of all his personal dreams. Father is astounded that Vincent would consider anything in life, including Catherine, more important then the good of the tunnel community.

*****

Tangent: Why doesn't Father make a fuss when Vincent travels days away from the home chambers to visit the Crystal Chamber or the nameless river? Is the Tunnel community any less vulnerable to attack when Vincent is away, but the difference is that he is still Below? Or, perhaps, since the run-in with Paracelsus, Vincent has chosen to stay close to home or been "encouraged" to stay at home.

*****

Third, Father's greatest fear is that Vincent will be discovered in the world Above. I think that Father is projecting his own prejudices about Above on to his son. Father is convinced there is nothing Above that is safe for anyone, especially his son. Maybe, just maybe, Father is beginning to feel threatened by Catherine, because he feels he is losing absolute control and influence over Vincent. Hum...

As for Pascal, Jamie and Mouse, they come, in essence, to reinforce Father's fears. IMHO, I would not have put it past Father to put them up to this---Let the appeals of Vincent's friends' work on his son's soft heart and selfless duty to his family and friends. Sadly, it works. All the "consider the community" talk finally convinces Vincent to abandon his dream.

All that is left is to disappoint Catherine and that hurts him deeply. He cannot fulfill her seemingly simple wish—accept her gift. He has failed her. It is unfair, but he decides it is better to err on the side of safety then take a risk that could ruin everything. Better to disappoint the one you love most and the one who will understand the best, then disappoint the many. We cannot fault Vincent for putting the needs of others before his own, it is part of his gentle, compassionate nature. But he has lived for others for so long, that he does not know how to be just a little selfish.

Catherine chides herself for offering Vincent the dream. She does not blame him because she believes in his wisdom. She examines whether she was impulsive in her own suggestion and had considered all the possibilities for disaster. She will accept all the blame for Vincent's unhappiness. She tries to soften his disappointment by continuing to dream. Its OK.

*****

The Dream

Where does it begin? Hum…My "official" thought has always been that after racing through the tunnels and back to his chamber, Vincent collapsed on the bed. Probably, lying there with his arm over his eyes, the bits of conversation cascading through him, his disappointment, and anger at himself dissolving into sleep and the dream.

On the other hand, I could be willing to allow a little magic to weave itself and believe the angel when she says, "Call it what you will... Sleeping....Waking Dream" He has been transported to a world without him and then returned his surroundings intact. Hum.....

*****

NO! VINCENT! NOT THE STAINED GLASS WINDOW! <sob> I cringe every time I watch this scene.

Vincent awakes to an angel in the image of someone he knows, recognizes, and would be willing to listen to—Catherine.

The thing I found out of context to everything is why the point of the dream is Vincent's "I remember thinking that there would be less pain for those I love" if he had never been born or had not lived. Where did this come from? These circumstances do not seem "great" enough for someone to spiral down into such depression and hopelessness. He has had to face disappointment before. I am sure he has had to disappoint those he loves in the past. If anything, he should feel like the world has turned against him, not that the world would be better off without him. The whole "reason" for the dream does not make sense to me.

This aside, one must work with what is presented. <sigh> What the world would be like without Vincent's influence on the lives of others is interesting.

Of the tunnel community, the angel says that when he died as a baby, hope and possibility died with him. People lost heart. I suppose that the baby Vincent gave the people Below a reason to work hard and make the hidden community flourish no matter how impossible the circumstances. He was a symbol of "what could be."

I think the baby Vincent, was even a symbol of hope for Father. When the child died, Jacob probably felt like a failure and Paracelsus, seizing the opportunity, removed him. He could now rule his kingdom. I find the "alternate" Pascal the most disturbing change in character, a man known for his gentleness. I could not help but feel sorry for Mouse.

Throughout the entire dream, Vincent's heart goes out to the people he loves and he tries to help them. He does not lift a hand to those that attacked him in Paracelsus' lair, even taking the deathblow. He tries to comfort Mouse and reach the lost, wild boy he had once tamed. He does his best to comfort his father.

Vincent does not want to believe that Catherine could be any different then she was. He has always given Catherine the credit for her strength and courage. I do not think he realized how much influence he has had on her life, he saved her spirit with his gentle encouragement. He was the seed of change in her. Vincent's heart must have died when the broken Catherine turns on him in fear. It is in stark contrast to how they first met face to face. With her face covered, Catherine had come to know him and trust him before seeing his frightful features. Here was total rejection. Vincent's heart was shattered before the bullet hit.

The angel has made her point, despite all the limits and disappointment in Vincent's life, his life has meaning. He has been a great influence on those who know him and his greatest influence is his love and compassion for others. "We create the journey for each other."

*****

Tangent: One of the critic comments I came across in my "research" of Remember Love" was the proposal of how would Vincent feel if Catherine's life had turned out better then if she had met him. What if she was living her "happy life"? Would her choice of commitment to him mean more to him or would this only be the proof that Vincent would need to end their relationship? Hum. ....

*****

I think Catherine kisses him on the cheek and awakens him. <grin>

I agree that she seems to have gotten over her disappointment of the cancelled trip and maybe she has. Catherine would certainly let go of those feelings, so as not to upset Vincent anymore. Maybe, her feelings of disappointment had some bearing on his own despair, hence the dream.

"Remember love."

*******

Finally, and on a lighter note, this is a great "gazing at Vincent" episode. I love the scene of him in his chamber packing. His hair is lush and full and in that white and gray patched shirt, he is almost an angel himself. <sigh>

All the shots that linger on his face. <sigh>

And lastly, those beautiful blue eyes. <SIGH>

*****

Two cents—

Midnight Rose

The “Two Cents” essays are the sole property of the author, Midnight Rose, and are not to be duplicated or shared in any way, shape, or form except with the express permission of the author.

Ashes, Ashes

*****

Dimitri:

This is a man driven by his love for Anna. He crossed half the world for the chance to be reunited with the one he loved and he was not going to let any obstacle stand in the way of the chance to win her heart back. He fears he has waited too long. Vincent says at the end of the episode that Dimitri came even though he probably knew that he would be too late to stop her marriage to another. He had no choice but to follow his heart. His love and devotion to her is touching. Sad that he came so far and could not fulfill his dream.

*****

Vincent:

This is a man driven by his love for others. He plucks Dimitri from the water and, instinctively, takes him Below to safety. There is no other way in Vincent's heart for him to react to those that are hurt and suffering. At the time, there was no way for Vincent to know the danger Dimitri would pose to his tunnel family. I know he is always bringing people Below, not following the rules, but I cannot see Vincent doing anything different.

Vincent and Dimitri become fast friends and there seems to be an understanding between them. They both love the women in their lives with all of their hearts and souls and fight against what keeps them apart.

He is crushed by Dimitri's death. It is the personal loss of a friend and the loss of Dimitri's dream of being reunited with Anna. I know Vincent feels very guilty for bringing this man Below and endangering everyone in the tunnels. Vincent helped bring Eric and Ellie into the Tunnels; he has an invested role in their lives. He is their "protector" and he is powerless to save them from this trial. I know we did not see him deal with his guilt on screen, but knowing Vincent the way we do, he would take all the blame upon himself. Should he be punished for breaking the rules? What worse punishment can there be, then knowing you are part of the cause of someone's death, someone you dearly love?

My heart went out to Vincent as he tried to gently break the news of Ellie's death to Eric. This scene is heart-wrenching. Vincent tries in vain to help Eric understand what he is trying to say, finally, he must tell Eric straight out. "Ellie is gone." Even then Eric rejects it, every fist into Vincent's chest borne as testament of the pain inflicted upon one so young. Vincent has had to give this terrible news and he is helpless to comfort Eric because he has run off.

Vincent is there to encourage Father when Father is wrestling with his own helplessness and hopelessness. He quietly gives him the reassurance he needs, restoring his faith in himself. I think that when the community is in crisis, all those Below turn to Father and to Vincent for strength, guidance, reassurance, and hope. Vincent must be there to strengthen Father.

On a lighter note, I like the moment when Vincent stops and watches Catherine with Ellie. There is such love and admiration in his gaze. He is touched by her love and caring. In not so many words, Vincent tells Catherine that she is a gift to him.

*****

Eric:

This is a boy whose over-reaction has hurt the one he loves. In anger and fear he has lashed out and said ugly words, he must apologize. He needs the reassurance from Ellie that his words will not make her leave him alone. He clings to Ellie because she is his only family; she is his security. A promise is a promise. Fears are fears. Words are words. Life is black and white for a child as young as Eric, they do not pick up on subtleties or abstracts or context. This is why when Vincent tries to tell him that Ellie is dead, Eric does not understand until Vincent comes right out and tells him. All of Eric's emotions that have nowhere to go are pounded out on Vincent's chest: denial, grief, love, fear, anger, guilt, aloneness.

Eric is left with his grief and guilt and his solution is to write Ellie a letter. This scene is both heart breaking and one of healing. The simple thought of writing a letter becomes the first step to dealing with the grief and guilt that plagues everyone's hearts.

*****

Father:

This is a man driven by his love for his community. Father is not only the leader and the doctor, but also a father to all under his care. He must be strong for them, give them hope. There is no time to wallow in grief or lay blame, what is done is done, and action must be taken to save his people. But even he can only do so much for them. Father feels guilty for not catching Dimitri's illness sooner. He is unable to save Ellie and he feels he has failed her. He has failed Eric. How many others will fall before the illness can be stopped? In his own grief, fear and exhaustion, Father loses hope. Vincent gently reminds him that all is not lost, he must not give up.

Father's exchange with Eric is so tender, emotional, and heart breaking. Father seems timid, not sure what Eric's reaction is going to be. Will the boy reject his offer of comfort? Father needs Eric's reassurance as much as Eric needs Father's comfort. I think they both begin to find a way to heal and deal with their grief

The burning of the letters was a very touching and beautiful idea. It was a healing for all.

*****

Catherine:

This is a woman driven by her need to give to those she loves. She is willing to risk her own health to help these people who are so dear to her. She cannot stay away. Ellie and Eric are especially precious to her; she brought them to the safety and family Below, now they are threatened once again. Catherine must have whispers of guilt that she cannot do more for them and not keep them safe which was her dream for them.

Her lullaby is very sweet. She gives of herself, a precious memory of her mother. For Ellie, Catherine offers a mother's comfort. When Ellie dies in her arms, Catherine's reaction is a mix of love, denial, anger, and grief, death cannot be allowed to win. She instinctively turns to Vincent for comfort as she allows herself to cry.

Catherine is also one who needs to help those she does not know. She turns Brooklyn upside down, looking for Anna, for the slim chance of finding her for Dimitri. His love and devotion touch Catherine and she marvels at his sacrifice—all for love.

*****

Other thoughts:

I love the embarrassing story Peter tells about Catherine. Great lines.

Marvelous! Vincent knows other languages. (Does anyone know how to translate what he said in Russian?) I think that with his love of learning and reading, Vincent would easily pick up other languages spoken by tunnel dwellers and helpers and/or study them on his own.

Hum... Vincent is immune. What does this mean about his genetics? Any thoughts?

Kudos to Roy Dotrice for co-writing this episode. (Interesting side note that the original concept was to have Father get sick and the main fear would be "will he survive or not". I think that would have turned the episode into "stereotypical " TV. IMHO.)

*****

Extra information:

Post on Kayla’s Caverns. June 11& 12 2002. By C.R. Subject: Ashes, Ashes and the plague

“I promised to research the background of the plague as told in Ashes, Ashes. I found out more than I ever need to know. The plague or *black death' spreads from a bacterium spread from rats who were bitten by infected fleas. The disease enters the bloodstream and into the lymph nodes causing a blood infection. It is usually treated by antibiotics but a minority of people treated can still die. There is a vaccination. The disease untreated will likely cause serious illness and/or death. In the 14th century, 25% or 25 million people, died of the black death.”

“In Ashes, Ashes the disease was likely spread to Dimitri via infected rats on board the ship on which he traveled. Plague is spread through trade networks on ship and land, through rats and unsanitary conditions. Modern day plague still exists in the wild and can be found in Southwestern U.S., In states like Utah and Montana and is treated with antibiotics. In the U.S. 10 to 15 cases per year and globally, 1,000 to 3,000 per year are discovered. Plague also exists in Africa, Asia and South America. I think the plague story was, for the most part, authentically told in this episode.” CR

“Pneumonic plague, which is probably what Dimitri had, can be spread in the air and symptoms resemble pneumonia. Before antibiotics, this form was almost 100% fatal and the disease needs to be diagnosed 24 hours after onset in order for antibiotics to be totally effective. This would explain why Father had to get the antibiotics very quickly and in the case of Dimitri and Ellie, too much time had passed before they could get medicine.” CR

“Bubonic plague is the form of plague caused by the bite of an infected flea, infecting the blood (septicemia). Some forms of this can be spread by inhalation or ingestion. As I was reading, I discovered that there are many forms of the disease and different people can develop different forms of it. 48 hours of isolation after receiving antibiotics decreases the risk of spreading it. That would explain why the tunnel people were isolated, whether or not they had symptoms. Hope that answers any questions.” CR

*****

Two Cents---

Midnight Rose

The “Two Cents” essays are the sole property of the author, Midnight Rose, and are not to be duplicated or shared in any way, shape, or form except with the express permission of the author.

Dead of Winter

I enjoyed this episode very much and it is one of my favorites. We get another coveted glimpse into the Tunnel community, its traditions and culture. We learn more about when it began, how it began, and who was there at the beginning 30+ years ago. We are invited to a tunnel celebration, one all their own, that celebrates all those who have helped make the community what it is—a thriving, nurturing, loving world.

The Winterfest candles are an appropriate symbol and gift for the Tunneldwellers and Helpers. Candles light the underground world. Far below the surface where they live there is no light; there is only darkness so black that one cannot see one's hand in front of one's face. People are drawn together by light. From light comes the heat of fire to push away the cold shadows. In this light, friendships are born and nurtured and the warmth of compassion betters everyone's lives. Helpers come from the world of light and bring down a little of that brightness into the hidden community's soul. (I do not think that the Tunnels could survive without the Helpers and I think that they rely on them more then we realize.)

The Winterfest "dedication" says a lot about how the tiny community began out of darkness. All it took was the spark of trust and the sputtering flame of working together to give it the foundation it now flourishes on. Their unity gives them strength to overcome any shadow of evil that tries to threaten them. They are a very fragile community that must not forget how they began, or the sacrifice of the Helpers as they look toward the future. Hence, Winterfest is a very important occasion to remember all who are part of the community.

*****

Winterfest is a very special day for Catherine. She is included in the festivities this year. She has earned her right to be recognized as a Helper. I am sure that Vincent put a good word in for her, but I think it is significant that the whole community agreed that she be there—including Father. I think it was significant that Father told her at the end that "you are a part of us now." At last, Father has accepted her as part of the community and as a part of Vincent's life.

I would like to have learned more about the Helpers. How they came to know of the tunnels and why they have chosen to help this tiny community and keep its secrets for all these years.

I enjoyed hearing Vincent's first recollection of Winterfest and his musings at the tapestries.

*****

I love the humor sprinkled throughout the episode. The running joke of Father and his love of chess is wonderful and light, as is the teasing competition between Samantha and Geoffrey. Pascal needing to check on his pipes to make sure that they are "still there." So often we see the somber side of the daily hardships of living Below, that it is nice to see the laughter and fun that they also enjoy.

Father, Catherine, Vincent, and “the waltz” conversation is one of my favorite moments. To have Father just finish spouting about how the waltz was "scandalous" and "wicked", only to have Catherine turn to Vincent and ask if he danced—waltz—the look of embarrassment on Father's face is priceless. How devilish of Catherine. <GRIN>

*****

Paracelsus showed us just how totally evil he truly is. To kill Sam the Barber and then torch Narsissa was very low---almost out of character for a villain who is so brilliant, so cold, and so calculating in his schemes. He does not just want to destroy, he wants to teach a lesson first???, play mind games??? Perhaps, that is what makes him more dangerous—he is unpredictable. Self-preservation IS one of his weaknesses. Yet, deep down there is still a spark of humanity—a sadness that he is alone and if he had not chosen the path of power, he might still be part of the community. Interesting, complex character.

I found Tamara to be an interesting character. I wonder what her background story is? (Perhaps, a way to pay homage to Rick Baker and his creature shop.)

*************

I enjoyed watching Vincent and Catherine work side by side to solve the mystery. Each used what they knew and shared it with the other to discover the "poison rose." I wished they had done more "side by side," they make an effective, intellectual team.

*******

Finally….

Catherine: Can you hear it, Vincent?

Vincent: Only the quiet…and the wind crying to get in.

Catherine: You can hear it if you try…the music.

Vincent: Yes, I hear it...Catherine, that question you asked me earlier....

<smile>

<sigh>

*****

Two cents— Midnight Rose

The “Two Cents” essays are the sole property of the author, Midnight Rose, and are not to be duplicated or shared in any way, shape, or form except with the express permission of the author.

God Bless the Child

The “Two Cents” essays are the sole property of the author, Midnight Rose, and are not to be duplicated or shared in any way, shape, or form except with the express permission of the author.

Sticks and Stones

This is not one of my favorite episodes. It was good to see Laura again and learn what has become of her after moving Above. I liked the interaction of Laura and Vincent. The glimpse into the world of the deaf and sign language was interesting. I do not identify with the gang or their pointless anger.

*****

Laura:

It is good to see Laura again and find out how she is coping in the world Above. She certainly has changed from the shy, innocent girl she was in "Impossible Silence" to the young woman she is becoming. Vincent told her in IS that it was time for her to leave the Tunnels in order to continue growing and maturing as a person and as an adult. She is a young woman trying to find herself in the World Above, find a new place to belong, find new friends and experiences.

I do not know what expectations she had to moving "Up Top", but the world Above can be a cold, uncaring place in contrast to the warm, nurturing world of Below, her home. She has been doing her best to cope. I would think that it has been challenging and it has been frustrating. She has been hurt emotionally, she is struggling, she is angry, and I think she doubts that she can do it. Yet, she refused to give up and seek the safety and "coddling" of Below. Laura knows within herself that to go back is to admit defeat. Perhaps, she wishes to succeed in honor of Vincent and his belief in her. Laura has also fallen in love with Jerry and to return Below would mean leaving him behind.

Someone brought up the fact that working a newsstand swarming with people is NOT the ideal job for Laura as a deaf person. I agree. (Not saying that it cannot be done, it just is not right for her.)

*****

Topic: Why did Laura turn away from the Tunnels and Vincent, when she ran from the newsstand?

I think she wanted to go "home", talk to Vincent, but then decided she could not go back yet and instead turned to her new "friends," her new “home.” She may have felt she needed to make her own choices and solve her own problems. Maybe she feared that Vincent and the others would try to get her to go back to the newsstand and keep trying, just like the Helper did. Laura was lost without anywhere to go at that moment, I think.

*****

Somehow, Laura has fallen in with this gang. There is no explanation of how or why. I suppose that she met someone who was deaf, they befriended her, and they happened to be a gang member. (Did Jerry introduce her to the gang? I do not remember.) Laura has found someone who has something in common with her, someone who understands her struggles of being deaf in a hearing world, someone who understand her frustrations and anger and hurt. She is beginning to feel that she "belongs" somewhere in the big world of Above. Once she was welcomed into the group, there was no safe way out of the gang. To late, she realizes the mistake she has made in judging the character of this group. You can see the conflict on her face—her beliefs and moral upbringing of the Tunnels being questioned by the gritty reality of the streets.

Vincent, her parental figure, comes to visit her and reminds her of her home and family and how much they care for her. He and her tunnel family are there to support her and encourage her, they should not be forgotten. She has also put aside her duties as a Helper and the moral principles that those who have lived Below are expected to live by---but these are not elaborated on (I wish they had been). She is breaking those rules and she must come answer to them.

*****

Tangent: In the scene where Vincent comes to the window when Laura is sleeping with Jerry. How does he wake her? Vincent crouches down and stares at her for a minute. Maybe it was a gentle empathic whisper? Or, maybe as he moved across the light of the window. Hum…..

*****

Topic: When Vincent went up to talk to Laura she was not embarrassed when he looked in and saw her in bed with Jerry, but she was when Vincent looked in again while they were talking. Why?

So much in that scene is said without words. I suppose Vincent is like a father to her and maybe she expects a fatherly admonishment. I did not catch any disapproval in Vincent of her sleeping with Jerry, unmarried (if that is part of the moral principles of Below). I think Vincent was speaking broadly of the "circumstances" of her neglected duties as a Helper and of the dangers of the gang since Catherine would have told him and that is why he had found her.

**

I think part of her defense and anger is toward their disapproval of the decisions she has made, whether good or bad. I think that maybe she thinks that her tunnel family does not trust her to make the right choices and trust that she will get herself out of the situation she is in—by herself, in her own time. She may not think they understand how much she struggles Above. I also think that another part is her indirect defense of Jerry, who she does not look upon as "one of the gang who killed." She defends the gang only to the point of the choice of living in a group separate from the mainstream of society, a dynamic she understands through the Tunnels and needs Above to survive. I suppose she feels that the Tunnels may try to pull her back, or hold her back, and Laura is not willing to give up her new life and leave the man she loves. In anger and rebellion, she rejects their words.

All she has left in the world is Jerry. Someone she has come to love, to trust and to rely on. He admits that he is not who he says he is and for a while she feels she has no one. But her love for Jerry overcomes his dishonesty and she forgives him. I think she was headed back to the gang's hideout to confront Jerry again, when she finds that Lincoln knows of Jerry's deception too. Laura needs help to save him and she turns again to the tunnels and Vincent—people she knows she can count on, no matter what she has done or how she has treated them.

I think her last moments with Vincent are a testament to Laura's strength and courage. She has tried to make it on her own, without taking into account the wisdom and council of her family and friends. I think she admitted that she was "lost" in her anger for awhile, she has apologize for her behavior, and I think she will succeed in a life Above. She is stronger and wiser now.

******

The Gang:

I do not have much to say about the gang. Deaf or no, gang violence is pointless and serves no purpose for whatever cause has made one angry or who they feel they must retaliate against.

*****

Vincent:

He has a very parental type of role in Laura's life. Vincent looks upon himself as her mentor, her teacher, her friend, and in many ways her father/brother/uncle. He loves Laura very much. He frets over her happiness and safety as a concerned parent would. Vincent comes to her and gently questions the decisions she has made and just as gently voices his concern over "circumstances" — those unknown duties and moral principles. Vincent reminds her that he is there for her to confide in. I suppose he is a little hurt that she has not sought his council, but he knows that he cannot stand in the way of her choices even if he does not approve.

Vincent asks himself the same question that parents ask themselves in his journal entry: "Can there be anything so painful as watching a child you love falter in the world? Refuse your help. At what point do you draw quietly away from their lives? At what point do you say, "I am no longer responsible?” We taught Laura to depend on herself, to think her own thoughts. Do we now tell her to disregard those lessons, to doubt herself, to change? She is a woman now, no longer a child. "

Even after Laura turns her back on the Tunnel out of anger, Vincent comes to Jerry's and her aid without hesitation. His love is unconditional.

*****

Vincent and Catherine:

Catherine's conflict was the clash of her loyalty to Vincent and the secret world Below and her role as an officer of the law Above. She has faced this dilemma many times throughout the series.

The last person Laura expected to run into was Catherine. Catherine could not believe she had seen Laura with this gang. Catherine is stuck between two worlds. She tells her world nothing for the moment and quickly informs Vincent knowing that Laura is part of his world. When Vincent states that Laura is subject to the Tunnels laws first, Catherine has to sadly state that she cannot protect Laura from the laws of her world. I think Catherine is hoping Vincent can talk Laura away from the gang and get her safely Below. They did not expect the connection to Jerry.

Both are concerned for Laura's well being and are equally touched by Laura's strength and courage. Laura's love for Jerry touches their hearts and reminds them of the love they share and the courage it took for them to love. They reaffirm their "vow" to each other with:

"To Surrender yourself completely to your heart, to trust in it fully, to believe in it without doubting... To let it guide your life.... "

******

Other things:

I love the way Vincent is filmed in this episode. <sigh>

Kudos to RP in making sign language look easy when it is not.

I always forget that the scene of Vincent writing in his journal is in this episode. It is one of my favorite sequences.

I love the way Laura’s face lights up when Vincent asks about Jerry. You know she is in love. Her shy embarrassment is enduring.

I liked the scene where Jerry and Laura go on their “imaginary” trip. Sweet.

*****

Tidbits about the episode:

Kindra posted “that the sign for Vincent’s name is basically “long, yellow hair.” Laura and the newspaperman use this description. A gesture for a distinct personal trait to indicate that person does make sense. Good observation!

*****

Someone wondered if SAS won any TV Awards. I have not found anything in my resources stating that SAS won an award---although I remember reading somewhere there was mention of one. It may have been kudos from the deaf community.

However, I did find some other tid­bits. In Starlog "Louder that Words" article quote:

“From the second script's early stages, Terrylene (Laura) and Tech. Advisor Lou Fant had a significant input. It was their suggestion to use subtitles during the scenes that deal solely with the deaf characters. Normally, a speaking actor is written into a scene or voice-overs are used to interpret the deaf actors, CBS approved the nine minutes of "silence" in “Sticks and Stones."

The subtitles were an important issue to Terrylene. "Finally, our work is not being distorted by voices," she states. "I think that without the voice, the audience will see the characters more. We're happy because our work is being 'seen' for the first time, not being ‘heard’."

She also goes on to say that at first she was worried about working with RP in his make-up, but soon found that he was one of the easiest to work with. She was impressed that "he listens and responds".

Another note about the sign-language used is that in Impossible Silence they used "Home Sign" which is more gestures and used in a home environment and they (BATB) made up a few too. American Sign Language was used in SAS. There is also a third type of sign called SEE (Signing Exact English), the academic sign language used mostly in educational institutions. Interesting.

*****

Two Cents---

Midnight Rose

The “Two Cents” essays are the sole property of the author, Midnight Rose, and are not to be duplicated or shared in any way, shape, or form except with the express permission of the author.

A Fair and Perfect Knight

The Young Knight:

Michael is the pride and promise of the Tunnels. Father and Vincent took a frightened, rejected, angry little boy and raised him, loved him, nurtured him, encouraged him, and schooled him. He has become a fine young man with sensitivity and character. The two men burst with parental pride when they announce Michael's acceptance to college. I think when Michael says that he is "doing this for you," in many ways he has done it for Father and Vincent. His father rejected him (and his mother died) and Father and Vincent took on the parental role in Michael's eyes. They are his source of love and acceptance. I think Michael still feared rejection so to gain continuous approval and love from his "fathers" he worked and studied hard for them (reminds me of Rolley.) Michael should be proud of what he has achieved for himself.

College is an opportunity that cannot be passed up, but to do so, Michael must reenter the world that had rejected and abandon him. Michael is unsure he can face his personal demons. I think he also exhibits the uncertainty of any kid on his own for the first time. He is bold and mature one moment and is a young, naive, and scared kid the next.

His friend on this journey is Catherine and he looks up to her, just as he did with Vincent, for guidance, assurance, acceptance, and love. She encourages him to look beyond the pain he remembered and discover the world Above anew. He is flattered by Catherine's kindness and attentiveness, gets caught up in her enthusiasm, and he wishes to please her. He presents her with a gift he knows she will love and she showers him with complements. Catherine continues to fill Michael's need for love and continued approval.

He has a crush on her and dreams fantasies that he knows should not be. He feels guilty about those feelings and knows he must be betraying Vincent's trust. I think he fears disappointing Vincent, fears his disapproval, and fears he will lose his love. This is so important to Michael's psyche.

Facing the father that rejected him is another issue. Michael hopes that since Above seems different after all these years, maybe the relationship between father and son could be different also. No, it is not to be. Michael is crushed. The one person he needed love from has rejected him. I think his reaction to that rejection comes back to his desperate need for continuous approval and love.

In his emotional turmoil, Michael turns to the only person in the world Above that is a source of that acceptance and love, Catherine. Michael kisses her. Catherine stops him, denies him love and, therefore, rejects him too. This is on top of his guilt of loving her in the first place. His betrayal is known, the truth is known. He feels he has ruined everything, disappointed everyone, betrayed everyone's faith and belief in him. He has failed them all.

It takes Vincent to reach out to him with all the love of a parent, a brother, and a friend to reassure Michael, to give that "approval" and love back to the broken young man. Nothing has been lost or ruined. He is no less worthy of to be loved. Mistakes were made, hard lessons learned, but that is part of the journey.

******

The Lady:

Catherine is so happy and proud of the opportunity to be a Helper. I get the feeling that she has helped pull the strings to make Michael's acceptance into college a reality. She is a good guide; she knows the city and knows her way around the college scene. In many ways, she becomes the extension of Vincent and becomes Michael's "surrogate parent" Above. Her role is to encourage and reassure the young man. They become fast friends, they enjoy their time together, and she is sensitive to his fears and uncertainty.

She admires Michael's courage for confronting his father and she is there to hold him when his world crumbles. Michael's past does not matter, it makes him no less worthy and deserving of all he has achieved. Those that love him still have faith in him. Her heart goes out to him.

The kiss is a total shock, completely unexpected—and unwelcome. Just as Vincent had refused to see Lena falling in love with him, Catherine did not see Michael falling in love with her.

******

The Worthy Knight:

Vincent is proud of this fine young man. He has taken on a parental role and looks upon Michael as a son. He knows how much Michael has grown and matured over the years. The tunnels have done all they can do for Michael and to continue to grow, he must go into the world of opportunity, the world Above. Yet, this is a world of old wounds that have not healed for Michael. Can the young man overcome the challenge or will he fail?

Vincent questions whether he and Father have erred and perhaps pushed the young man out of their own (selfish?) desire to see him achieve, rather then Michael making his own choice. Perhaps, they have not considered Michael's deeper troubles and it would be better to keep him "safe" at home. Catherine points out that, as parental figures, it was their duty to encourage Michael toward all the possibilities for his life. She also recognizes that Vincent's wish to see Michael go to college is, in a way, an opportunity for Michael to experience a world that Vincent can only dream of being a part of. Just like a parent, Vincent must be left behind and must let Michael go on through life without him. "Go now. The world awaits!"

When Michael comes Below, after his dream, I think he first spoke of all that he and Catherine had shared together and his experiences and discoveries of Above. I am sure Vincent wished he could have shared in those experiences too. Deep down, Vincent knows something weighs heavy on the young man's mind and Michael is avoiding the issue. He can only react to what Michael tells him. I think he is surprised and hurt that Michael cannot open up to him.

As for the kiss, I think Vincent reacted first to Catherine's sudden shift in mood, from happy to deeply concerned and then a little frightened for Michael. He felt how her love and concern reached out to the young man. If he did feel the kiss, he would have felt Catherine's immediate shock and dismay too. I get the feeling that his feelings of jealousy have been growing and that the "stolen" kiss adds to those personal hurts.

(I will deal with the jealous and envy in a minute.)

Once again Michael cannot face him and runs from him. Vincent is certainly confounded and disappointed by Michael's actions. He does not know how to respond. Vincent realizes he cannot face Michael himself without dealing with his own feelings of jealous and betrayal. After Vincent comes to terms with his own feelings, he is better able to comfort and understand Michael's feelings. Their hug is fierce and healing for both. "How could anyone not love her."

*****

The Jealousy and Envy:

By the time Catherine finds Vincent in his chamber, he is in the middle of dealing with his darker feelings, his jealousy, his envy, and his selfishness, the limits and unfairness of his life, his anger and betrayal by Michael. He is caught in a moment of self-pity. He is ashamed to be having these feelings at all. Vincent says he is envious and jealous of what Catherine and Michael shared. I think Vincent speaks in general here and it is not just about the kiss. Yes, the kiss is part of that envy, but—there is more that Catherine and Michael have shared.

That sharing began when Catherine and Michael left the Tunnels and left Vincent behind. He could not go Above. It should have been his place to accompany Michael and continue his role as parent in preparing the young man for college. He is jealous of the time that Michael was spending with Catherine, something he cannot do. Vincent felt her happiness as she and Michael laughed, talked, and relaxed together. It should be him by her side sharing those things. His time with Catherine is always so short and bittersweet.

The kiss was the betrayal of Vincent's gift of Catherine friendship to Michael. He needed her love and kindness and Vincent, unselfishly, offered Michael that special tenderness and guidance. Michael overstepped the boundaries of his gift and shared a physical intimacy with Catherine. Vincent is envious of that expression of love that is "rightfully" his. He may not be able to give it yet, but he longs too.

Vincent loves Catherine and is possessive of her love. He has always tried to love her unconditionally and unselfishly, but he finds that he cannot maintain that "ideal" love. This shames him. His heart has betrayed him. He does not feel worthy to claim her as his own. Catherine wants his love to be selfish towards her. In a backward way, Vincent's jealousy shows Catherine how much he does love her. Vincent needs to accept those feelings as part of love and his "rightful" feelings towards Catherine.

Vincent also speaks of the limits of their relationship. He sees them as impossible to overcome. Catherine does not care about those limits, because they are worth the love that they share. I can see she is working on challenging every one of those limits. Unfortunately, the "limits" in Vincent's mind and heart, are ones that can only be eliminated when he finally convinces himself that their love can be limitless.

They have reached a turning point in their relationship, maybe just a little step forward. I like the scene on the balcony. They stand apart, a little awkward with each other, like a couple of shy teenagers. The air is electric with their longing. They glance at each other, a look speaking volumes. It is up to Vincent to make the next move. I love the way Vincent's gaze lingers, and then he shifts and boldly wraps his arm around Catherine and pulls her close. He claims her as his. <sigh>

*****

<SIGH>: I love watching Vincent stroll down the tunnels, his gentle swagger and the sway of his cloak. (watch, rewind, repeat)

I enjoyed the “The Father, The Brooke, and The Wardrobe” scene. Father has to get out more.

Another moment was Michael and Catherine going over “possible” classes to take.

*****

The Episode That Wasn't:

The original concept for this episode, if you read what the writers initially had in mind in "BATB: Above and Below, " fell far short of its intent in the end. The premise was to have Catherine fall for a man from Below that had all the wonderful qualities of Vincent, but not be limited by his differences. This man was even to echo Vincent's looks: tall, blonde, and handsome. In this way, Vincent could see that this man would be a worthy replacement for him in Catherine's life. I suppose this scenario would make Vincent's jealousy make more sense. (This premise was covered with the introduction of Elliot.) Wisely, the writers comment; the decision was made not to go this route because they knew the fans would hate the notion. I have to agree they were smart on this point.

This episode is not one of my favorites, except for the scene where Vincent and Catherine face his envy and jealousy. There are flaws in the logic of having a young kid stay with a beautiful woman, but then we would not have an episode. There also seemed to be a bit of over-reacting to the different situations. But— As always, I try to approach episodes by considering what has been presented and try to make sense of it all as given.

*****

Two cents—

Midnight Rose

The “Two Cents” essays are the sole property of the author, Midnight Rose, and are not to be duplicated or shared in any way, shape, or form except with the express permission of the author.

Labyrinths

I like this episode. Not a great episode, but it had several nice moments that give you another glimpse into the people of the tunnels. I have often wondered what they would do with someone who happened to stumble down enough levels to discover the tiny community. Using someone that knew Catherine took away any real danger, or suspense, of their secret being discovered, however, having the police and firemen down there was a bit scarier.

The fantasy world of the boy, his sense of adventure, and his problems at home are real life issues that hit a note of understanding for someone who is the child of divorced parents or been through a divorce themselves. I took Vincent's words and advice to heart—during my own experience of divorce. I understood the hurt and terror and the wish I could disappear into a world that "seemed" better. BATB is still a bit of an escape—which is what a healthy fantasy life is for. <grin>

*****

Everything you wanted to know about labyrinths and mazes:

Gleaned from a bit of research:

Labyrinths and mazes have often been confused. When most people hear of a labyrinth they think of a maze. A labyrinth is not a maze.

A maze is like a puzzle to be solved. Mazes are multicursal. They offer a choice of paths; it has twists, turns, intersections, blind alleys, and dead ends. Some may have many entrances and exits. Mazes present riddles to be solved and challenge the choice-making part of ourselves. It is a left brain task that requires logical, sequential, analytical activity to find the correct path into the maze and out. An active mind is needed to solve the problem of finding the center. Mazes can full size to physically walk through or can be solved on a piece of paper.

Labyrinths are different from mazes. Labyrinths are unicursal. They have one well-defined path that leads into the center and back out again. There are no tricks, no dead ends, or intersecting paths. A labyrinth is a right brain task and involves intuition, creativity, and imagery. A more passive, receptive mindset is needed. With a labyrinth there is only one choice to be made. The choice is to enter or not. The choice is whether or not to walk a spiritual path.

The labyrinth is an ancient meditative art form whose design can serve as a metaphor of one's life journey. When you walk a labyrinth, you meander back and forth, turning 180 degrees each time you enter a different circuit. Its path helps walkers circle inward to the center of their soul. The labyrinth's center represents moving toward a goal and allowing one to release emotions that they carried inside in order to create or envision a solution, then it leads them back out into the world with a broadened understanding of who you are. Labyrinth circuits are found cut from low hedges, stone paths, or a design inlayed or painted on a floor. They are used today as a form of holistic medicine.

*****

For Vincent, the tunnels are his one and only home. "My very existence lies here within these tunnels. It is my salvation. I could not exist elsewhere." He has been nurtured and loved by a community that has vowed to keep him safe. Vincent has been able to live an enriched and full life Below within the hidden world of the Tunnels. (I hate to think of what his life would be like exposed Above. <shiver>) Vincent may, from time to time, chafe against the limits his differences place on his life, but his life is full of freedoms he could not otherwise have without the safety and secret of the tunnels.

*****

Labyrinths and the boy:

Brian is lost in the maze of emotions and aloneness. He sees no end to his own hurt, fear, anger, and terror that have become his life after his parents' bitter divorce. He feels unloved and unwanted. His father is emotionally distant and does not know how to "connect" with his son.

*****

Tangent: The father does love his son, but he cannot deal with his son's unhappiness because he is still paralyzed by his own hurt. In an indirect, sad way, his son has become the "stand-in" or a representation of the wife who has hurt him so deeply and left him shocked, hurt, angry, and emotionally lost. (The person, who promised to love you forever, suddenly becomes your worst enemy and you do not understand where all their "venom" came from. It crushes. I know---been there.) The father' frustrations with raising a child alone are magnified and are rained down upon the son in outbursts of shouting and anger. The two "left behind" do not know what to do or to say to each other in order to help each other find a way to heal— together.

*****

Brian's escape is the fantasy world of Dungeons & Dragons and his "crush" on Miss Chandler. Discovering the tunnels was an adventure that the teen could not pass up and it gave his fantasy D&D world a boast into reality—Prince Brian off to save Lady Catherine!

What Brian finds is beyond his imagination. He has tumbled into a world of love, nurturing, compassion, and care. All the things missing from his own shattered life. He has come to the center of his emotional journey, his labyrinth. He has found what he thought was lost within him—a sense of family, love, and belonging. Now he must take back to his "real world" what he has learned from the lives of the tunnel folk, learned about himself, and the new understanding of his father and his family situation.

Note: One bittersweet thought was given in Nea’s post, “you know that as everyone talks to Brian he is comparing their lives to his.”

He also carries a bigger burden—the secret of the Tunnels. That secret, though heavy, will bring him comfort and strength, like Catherine and Vincent remark. Within that secret is the friendship and spirit of courage from a compassionate community of people that despite their own hardships have found a way to endure.

*****

Topic: The Tunnels have an intruder and instead of being gentle and kind, they want to scare the lost kid. This seems very much out of character for the community.

I think most of them were shocked to discover that someone had made it past all their security and defenses and landed on their doorstep. I think that no one knew how to react "correctly" to this situation. They were all upset, scared of actually being discovered, and running on adrenaline. They had to find the intruder quickly. Vincent and Brian almost seemed to run each other down in their haste. I agree that it did seem out of character and harsh to hold the boy in a cell, but I think that the writers of the series had never really considered how to handle an intruder until now and this was their solution.

At the council, Father's feared that a "child" cannot keep the secret if pressed. (Although, He handed the secret to Eric with less worry.) There was a round of blame for the breach of security. William is his usual gruff self—I would expect him to offer a harsh solution. Vincent, the voice of reason, offers a wise solution after he has some time to consider the situation.

I also have to agree that Catherine was careless as she left the building. You cannot tell me she did not hear Brian rush through the stairwell door. The sound of a door opening would reverberate throughout the whole stairwell. She did not even stop and look up. And, how could this kid follow her all the way to the basement and still she did not stop, look, and listen that everything was clear and safe before venturing Below. I would expect Catherine to be more vigilant. (Again, I blame the writers on this one.)

**

Topic: Vincent is the most closely guarded secret of Below. Why did Vincent go out to find the intruder and not hide?

I had the same thought. I would think that the last person you would expect to see when an intruder is afoot is Vincent. Yes, he would be nearby and ready to defend his home, but I would think you would never see him. It was days before he was introduced to Lena, so I would think a delay in meeting him would be a normal occurrence. That said, I think that Vincent was surprised to run into Brian just outside Father's Chamber. He had no time to hide.

**

Topic: Vincent seems out of character. He is usually so empathic and considerate to the frightened, and yet he hauls Brian off with nothing but a neutral, unbelievable "no one will harm you."

I blame this on the writers. Where is his usual "Don't be afraid…no one will harm you."? Brian was too stunned to even react—at all. Everyone gathered around, all upset, talking at once, and called a council meeting to sort it all out.

**

Topic: Does the Tunnels have a process for dealing with people, who stumble over their society?

I think the Tunnel community did not expect to find someone just outside their "inner circle." Perhaps, they were becoming complacent in relying on their security grid and no one had ever breached their perimeter. They do act like they are coming up with a plan of action on the fly. At least, this time, it was just a boy and not someone who could be a bigger threat.

**

Topic: What makes a person eligible to join the Tunnels? Brian was turned down. Kanin lied his way in. Eric and Ellie were snatched out of orphanages. Was the only real reason Brian was turned down was because someone was actively looking for him?

The Tunnels are not a place to hide from your troubles. You have to have a good reason for needing to be there. Brian is looking for an escape from his unhappy home life. Many children get caught in the middle of their parent's divorce war and this is unfortunate. Brain has a home, he has a father that loves him, and he has a place where he belongs and needs to be. (The fight between his father and mother over who should have him over Easter is the typical fight for wanting to make the formal partner's life as miserable as possible. They are at odds with each other, both angry with each other, and both want their own way with no regard for the other partner—or child.)

Eric and Ellie were rescued from the abusive orphanage, they had no parents or relative and had no where else to go. I get the feeling that Geoffrey was in the same situation—maybe a relative who was a Helper found him a home Below or maybe he ran away -the series never said. Kanin managed to come Below, by whatever circumstances, by not mentioning he was a wanted man. His lies haunted him.

*****

A little bit of this and that:

The moments I love in this episode are the ones between Vincent and Catherine. Vincent comes to her balcony on an "urgent mission". He is almost breathless and his words just tumble from him as he shares the "miracle" of the children's recital. There is such an amused twinkle in his eyes and he is beaming with pride for these precious souls he is nurturing.

The lightness of their banter continues with his bemused remark that the children have "succeeded in humbling their elders." And Catherine's retort of "what could be sweeter." Fun to remember the impish joy of a being a child who has proved themselves to their parents... and remembering what it was like to be a child again.

I do have to admit I wanted to kick Vincent when he says that Catherine "holds a special place in their (the children's) hearts." I wished he had added something to the effect of "and my heart." All Catherine got was a long look and a hasty "Until tonight..." and he was gone. After last episode, Vincent needs to continue demonstrating he claims Catherine as "his." <sigh>

And last but not least—Vincent and Catherine walking off down the tunnel—into the sunset. Catherine slips her arm into his and leans into Vincent as they walk. <SIGH>

*****

Two cents—

Midnight Rose

The “Two Cents” essays are the sole property of the author, Midnight Rose, and are not to be duplicated or shared in any way, shape, or form except with the express permission of the author.

Brothers

The “Two Cents” essays are the sole property of the author, Midnight Rose, and are not to be duplicated or shared in any way, shape, or form except with the express permission of the author.

A Gentle Rain

“The quality of mercy is not strain’d

That, in the course of justice, none of us

And that same prayer doth reach us all to render

<SIGH> The Voice. The poem is beautiful.

*****

Two cents---

Midnight Rose

The “Two Cents” essays are the sole property of the author, Midnight Rose, and are not to be duplicated or shared in any way, shape, or form except with the express permission of the author.

The Outsiders

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Orphans

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Arabesque

“These hand are beautiful. These are my hands”

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When the Blue Bird Sings

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The Watcher

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A Distant Shore

Of Handwritten Letters

Further Discussion

In When The Blue Bird Sings, Vincent has the “warehouse” dream AFTER Kristopher has touched Catherine’s life.

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Trial

The Whispering Gallery

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A Kingdom by the Sea

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The Hollow Men

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What Rough Beast

“The second season concluded with the so-called Beauty and the Beast Trilogy (episode titles “What Rough Beast,” “Ceremony of Innocence” and “The Rest is Silence”), which explored Vincent’s dark nature unlike any previous episode had done and gave the series an undeniably harder edge than had been seen before. “Part of that had to do with the network directive,” explains Howard Gordon. “If we wanted to stay on, we had to get the edge back, and one of the ways we thought of doing it organically was to explore Vincent’s character………the whole thing was the exploration of what it meant to be Vincent, what exactly was he, what forces were working on him.”

“Vincent’s inability to reconcile his protection of those he loves with his nature and his humanity is beginning to take him deeper into self-absorption. He has isolated himself from those who love him, but his introspection leaves him with more questions then answers---and no absolution for his imagined sins. Confronted with more blood and destruction, Vincent is slowly falling to a point where the fragile hold on his humanity might snap.” (Quote from The Beauty and the Beast Companion)

“Hold me!”

“The thing that I love about Paracelsus is that he’s not just an out-and-out villain, killing people left, right, and center with no rhyme, reason or motive. He’s a villain with a point-of-view. Now, maybe you won’t agree with that point-of-view, but at least you’ll understand it, and see that he is more that just a two-dimensional character.”

“There is a depth to him and a sense of sadness and tragedy about his life. Here is an example of a man who had the brain and genius to be great……but instead became infamous.”

“He has been usurped and exiled, an all through it, there has been a remembrance and bitterness of that, coupled with this almost sad resignation over the situation.”

“Paracelsus’ own philosophy about evil is that you must own up to it and claim it as part of your glory…”

“I see Paracelsus as the alter ego of Vincent; symbolizing what Vincent could have become had it not been for the tender graces of his other side ((humanity side))and the effect that Cathy and Father have had on him. ((Paracelsus opinion is that Vincent is a beast.)) They are influences of the good, where Paracelsus provides influences of the bad……he should always remain evil, but evil with a point-of-view. There should always be a reason for his evil.”

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Ceremony of Innocence

Did Paracelsus succeed or fail to prove his “theory” to Vincent?

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The Rest is Silence

Vincent’s overall state of mind and body

IMHO: Vincent’s dual natures

Vincent’s internal battle

I think this is such a sad point for Father to make---or assume. How many people see Vincent for the first time and their first reaction is fear? A moment of fright, uncertainty of the unknown, that Vincent would certainly pick up on empathetically. How it must injure his sensitive soul, yet he accepts it as inevitable. <sigh>

“I don’t know where the dream began…I don’t know what happened”

Vincent: She must hear this!

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Though Lovers Be Lost

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