Boy, Girl, Boy, Girl

I have been dying to write about this new show that I love! But the thing is, it's not shot in New York, nor is it even about New Yorkers in particular. One thing is for sure though, New Yorkers and the rest of the world will identify with this show. It's fabulous because it forces you to take a closer look at gender differences, roles, expectations and relationships. (That's something that is prevalent in New York....) It's incredible. I cannot stop thinking about it....it's called "Tell Me You Love Me." Those of you who've already watched the show, I know what you're thinking. It's porn with a juiced up story line, but please, for heaven's sake, take some time to analyze the characters and what they represent. I wouldn't describe it as a battle of the sexes, nor would I describe it as bias, leaning toward men or women, but rather a showcase of men and women in relationships, who torture and gratify each other. I read a review on the show a couple of weeks ago that said if you are in a relationship, you should not watch this show with your significant other because it will make you argue endlessly. I found that statement interesting because not only did I not watch the show with my husband, but while I'm watching the show, I frequently ask myself: is that us? (Not convinced? Just watch the couples reactions to the show on HBO on demand. Some couples are visibly uncomfortable discussing some of the content featured on the show. It seems like it brings out their own issues.) "Tell Me You Love Me" forces you to ask questions like: Did she just say that? Why are they still together? Does he expect me to do that? Why doesn't he want to talk about it? Again: Is that us? With it's characters it shows you presumably your past (using Jaime and Hugo), your present (using Carolyn and Palek or Katie and David), and hopefully your future (using May and Arthur). It seeks to shatter our preconceived notions about what the opposite sex (or in some instances, the same sex) should offer in a relationship. It addresses your needs being met or lack thereof. Not only that, what really draws me to the show is that I see myself in all of the leading female characters, and in the past I was drawn to men, even married a man, with the same tendencies as the leading male characters. Or could it be that the scenes in therapy with Dr. Foster fills the void that Dr. Melfi filled for me on the Sopranos? Who knows? Besides, who are we kidding, we all need to visit Dr. Foster or Dr. Melfi for a therapy session.

Happy Watching...
V

Ex and the City

My Ex and I have not been a couple for over 8 years now. But we still remain very close despite our failed relationship. In fact it feels like since we've been friends we have grown much closer. He is a great conversationalist, ambitious, and focused. All of the qualities that he didn't have when we were together. Anybody that knows me, knows I love to talk! We share our fears, our goals and our hopes for our children. He has two sons that are close in age with my sons. It is very common for New Yorkers (especially my friends) to be in love one morning, and out of love that same night. I have to be honest, I never would of imagined that I would have remained friends with one of my many Exes for this long, but it happened, so now what? I always like to compare my life and my personality to New York. Welcoming at times, cold at other times. Beautiful depending on who you ask. Complex to some, but simple to those who are familiar. The element of contrast: rich and poor, strong and weak, wise and ignorant. (I could go on) If I am NY, then my friends are the MTA. Traveling with me through my life's journey, taking me where I need to go, and there for me 24 hours a day. My Ex is sort of like the Empire State building. Tall, big, lights up at the right times and always visible. What's New York without the subway or the Empire State building? Furthermore, who am I without the people in my life who shaped who I am today?

Until next time,
V