Hi, quick question. What were you thoughts for the intimate scene between reader and Joel? Like why at that moment and why not different? I hope you don’t mind these question I just find it interesting and would love to know:))
the waY I STARTED CACKLING aT THE QUEsTION (in a good way) Bear with me as I informally tell you my thought process:
When I was watching episode 6, it occurred to me that this would technically be the best moment for it, setting/scene-wise. Jackson is a safe place at this current time and this is part of the hero's journey where the arguments and the problems arise and it's just so in your face you can't ignore it. And this episode really focused on facing your fears.
The build-up over the last five chapters kind of (hopefully) helped with the scene. Joel's problem has been opening up and trying to heal, while Birdie's journey is discovering herself again, waking up, and trying to voice out what she needs. When she (you) finally does face her fears and tell him 'Hey, we can have a life together. We can be together. Things are less scary when you're with me.' You weren't unsure about him or your feelings at that point in the journey.
It's finally showing him that his self-destructive beliefs about himself aren't always true and you're confirming that for him. He sees the possibility of living a happy fulfilling life with you and Ellie. He feels safe with you.
I wanted to show that despite the fact that everything in the world is going to hell, there will always be people meeting one other, falling in love, and secretly leading happy lives together. Reminding us that family formation and community development don't merely happen under ideal circumstances. But, it is a foundational aspect of who we are and something we will stick to even when it feels like everything is working against us.
While writing that section of the chapter; I was REALLY second-guessing if I wanted to attempt to write an intimate scene since it's difficult to write something you haven't experienced yet. I didn't want it to be wrong if that made any sense?? Obviously, it's not the best well-written smut you're ever gonna read since I have yet to practice writing scenes like that :,))
THANKIE FOR THE QUESTION :DD It gives me a chance to vomit all the thoughts I had while writing the chapter ily anon for being here and reading the story mwa mwa <3 (hope it didn't disappoint you!)