Since I joined fandom I've seen countless "Sam the sensitive one" posts and I DO NOT UNDERSTAND. Not only is it obvious Dean's the more emotional one Sam is actually really awkward most of the time he has to be sympathetic. Where do you think the misconception comes from?
Stupidity. LOL ok my non-asshole answer...the narrative. The show loves to TELL us Sam is the one with more feelings, who is more compassionate, understands ppl, etc. A lot of ppl are inclined to go with what they're told & overlook what the see.
We have Dean saying “no chick flick moments” & telling random ppl how his brother is the one who’s good with the ppl stuff. But then he’s the one who connects w more characters, bonds w kids, tells ppl stories abt himself to comfort them, picks up a little old lady’s keys, offers a hand of comfort on Benny’s granddaughter’s shoulder...the list goes on. Dean shows his compassion. Of course, he wouldn’t give himself credit for it tho. He doesn’t see it as a big deal bc it’s natural to him & bc like other shit, Dean just isn’t one to take credit or seek a pat on the back for a job well done.
Meanwhile, we’re told Sam is the caring one...
Sam may talk a big game. Oh share your feelings, you can’t keep things bottled up blah blah blah, but he sucks at the execution most of the time. He usually ends up trying to lecture Dean for his “wrong” feelings or change his mind. And with strangers...well to be fair I pay a lot less attention to Sam so maybe some instances are escaping me, but yes, most of the time he comes off as awkward when he’s trying to talk feelings or sympathize.
Also, not that Dean hasn’t been blunt & insensitive to ppl to but Sam has done it many times himself. The difference is Dean’s called out on it by both narrative & fandom. He’s deemed the “dick” & gruff one...but Sam does the same damn thing & he’s still billed as the sensitive loving puppy.
It’s frankly, UNFAIR, but what else is new. Dean drew the short straw.
