THE SHORT VERDICT:
It is a case of Present residing as much as the hype.
The whole lot about this present, from the writing, to the course, to the supply, speaks so deeply, of real tenderness, and I simply love the way it all comes collectively, to change into one thing that’s even larger than the sum of its (already spectacular) elements.
Our story is easy and approachable, but so profound in its humanity and compassion, that one can not assist however discover it affecting.
Our total solid is improbable, however for my part, our core solid, IU, Park Bo Gum, Moon So Ri and Park Hae Joon actually stand out, enjoying our OTP in numerous timelines. They deserve the entire awards, after which some. 🥲
A masterpiece that’s nicely value your time.
THE LONG VERDICT:
My buddies, I actually sort of want that I may simply flail round and inform you guys to simply go watch this, as a result of it’s simply that good, and likewise, I’m simply that overwhelmed, and I don’t know if my phrases can do that present justice.
In all my years of drama watching, I can solely recall a small handful of cases, after I’d felt this fashion, after I’d gotten to the top of a present.
Considering again on my a few years of drama watching, I recall that I’ve solely felt this fashion after ending Chuno (evaluate right here), Nirvana in Fireplace (evaluate right here), Secret Love Affair (evaluate right here) and My Mister (evaluate right here).
And now, I’m so happy to say that I really feel just about the very same approach, as I’m ending this present.
Which tells me that, identical to these different iconic dramas, this actually is one for the ages. 🥲
OST ALBUM: FOR YOUR LISTENING PLEASURE
Right here’s the OST from Chapters 1 to three, in case you’d wish to take heed to it whilst you learn the evaluate.
I discovered the music very nice as a common rule, and it positively added positively to my watch expertise.
When it comes to favorites, I do like Midnight Stroll and My Love By My Facet. Each really feel mild and heat to me, which I really feel matches this present’s vibe completely.
Further shout-out to My Love By My Facet, for having a title that looks like the right abstract of Ae Solar and Gwan Sik’s relationship. ❤️
Right here’s My Love By My Facet by itself as nicely, in case you’d want to take heed to that on repeat. Excellent-click on the video and choose “Loop.”
HOW I’M APPROACHING THIS REVIEW
First I’ll speak about the right way to handle your expectations going into this one, and what viewing lens can be most useful.
After that, I speak about stuff I appreciated on a extra macro stage, earlier than I give the quickish (nonetheless macro) highlight to chose characters and relationships.
Following that, I dive into the assorted chapters of our story, from Spring, to Summer time, to Autumn and Winter.
When you’re excited by my blow-by-blow reactions, &/or all the assorted Patreon members’ feedback in the course of the course of our watch, you would possibly like to take a look at my episode notes on Patreon right here.
MANAGING EXPECTATIONS / THE VIEWING LENS
Listed below are some issues that I believe can be useful to remember, to maximise your enjoyment of your watch:
1. This isn’t a tragic story
When you haven’t seen this present, you would possibly get the unsuitable impression that it’s a tragic story, from the way in which different individuals speak about this present making them cry.
I’m right here to inform you that this present is primarily heat and hopeful in tone, though there’s heartache alongside the way in which.
I’m fairly certain Present will make you cry sooner or later, however I’m simply as certain, that these tears shall be cathartic ones.
In brief, you’re prone to cry, however you’re additionally prone to thank Present for making you cry. 🥲
2. Our story strikes between timelines
Present is useful about indicating the precise dates each time we transfer between timelines, however I typically nonetheless discovered it just a little disorientating – largely as a result of I’m probably inferior to the common particular person, with conserving observe of dates. 😅
I discovered that looking for contextual clues – like hairstyles – helped me to get myself located, so hopefully that trick will give you the results you want too.
General, I didn’t discover myself getting too confused, so I’m certain you’ll get a deal with on issues like I did.
STUFF I LIKED
General dealing with, writing and execution
The whole lot about this present, is so rigorously executed, and it exhibits.
From the setting, to the costuming, all the things feels so genuine to the instances, and look so believably lived-in.
The writing can be impressively detailed and deft. Despite the fact that our story strikes between a number of timelines, I by no means felt like write-nim ever misplaced observe of the place we have been or why, and each scene felt prefer it was made with objective, which I actually appreciated.
Which signifies that, sure, I didn’t really feel like there was any filler on this present.
I liked the earthy, slice-of-life really feel, which made me really feel like I used to be doing life with these characters, and but, Present one way or the other additionally manages to land as extraordinary and epic.
And, it felt like everybody concerned in making this present, was on the identical web page about what this present must be, and the way they’d obtain it.
I believed that was actually exceptional.
Our wonderful solid
I believed everybody was suitably well-cast, and did a wonderful job of the roles.
I believe it says rather a lot, that so many well-known actors are on this, from huge roles to smaller roles.
For one factor, it signifies that each character is well-delivered, and most of the time, a supporting character who’s stayed on the sidelines for a very good portion of the story, would possibly all of a sudden ship an incredible scene which lands as a punch to the intestine.
It’s not precisely a shock, whenever you have a look at the caliber of the actors – like Na Moon Hee enjoying Gran, for instance – however it’s a shock, within the sense of how a lot affect a supporting character might need, on the general narrative.
And, that’s one of the best sort of shock, in my drama-watching expertise. 🤩
Truthfully, it feels to me like everybody isn’t as involved with how a lot display time they get, as they’re concerning the high quality of the top product.
Working example: Park Bo Gum was extensively marketed as being this story’s male lead, however in impact, he has rather a lot much less display time than the common male lead.
Nonetheless, not solely does he do a flat-out superb job of the display time that he does have, he’s additionally expressed that he knew concerning the smaller quantity of display time, coming into the function.
In a panorama the place the underside line virtually at all times reigns supreme, this drama stands out as one the place it looks like everybody – from author, to manufacturing crew, to actors – cared primarily for the artistry and integrity of the story that they wished to inform.
SPOTLIGHT ON CHARACTERS / RELATIONSHIPS
In contrast to most of my different opinions (the lengthy ones I imply), I received’t be doing detailed spoilers sections of the characters & relationships on this part.
As an alternative, I’ll speak about them with broad spoilers, and go away the detailed spoilers for the deep dive into the 4 seasons, later on this evaluate.
[BROAD SPOILERS FOR THIS SECTION]
Yeom Hye Ran as Mother
Mother doesn’t have quite a lot of display time within the general scheme of issues, however I freaking liked Yeom Hye Ran on this function.
She’s usually prickly and offended on the floor, however her coronary heart is so true, and so full of affection for her youngsters, particularly Ae Solar, her first-born.
Within the little that we noticed of her, I already bought such a robust sense of how a lot of herself she poured out, for the sake of her household, and the way little she saved again for herself, if any in any respect.
Mother and Ae Solar
Like I discussed above, there’s a particular bond between Ae Solar and Mother, and our sense of this, solely will get stronger over time.
Mother is likely to be tough and gruff, however she solely ever has Ae Solar’s greatest pursuits at coronary heart, and Ae Solar, younger as she is, can be delicate to Mother’s efforts and emotions, and does what she will, to fulfill Mother midway.
I’m ever so grateful to Present, for giving this relationship room to exist and breathe, over the whole thing of our story.
Ae Solar and Gwan Sik
The love story between Ae Solar and Gwan Sik types the spine of our story, and oh my goodness, is it a love story for the ages.
It’s typically just a little dramatic, however more often than not, it’s quiet and unassuming, and the love that we see between them, is demonstrated much less in romantic phrases and gestures, and extra within the on a regular basis beats.
The best way they every put the opposite particular person first, of their minds and hearts, and align their actions accordingly, exhibits up time and again, and I couldn’t assist however be moved by such enduring loyalty and deep devotion, the place they select one another, time and again – after which once more nonetheless – whatever the circumstances. 🥲
In a drama panorama the place many dramas solely showcase the preliminary giddy courtship section, it looks like a uncommon and necessary deal with, to see what love seems to be like in motion, not simply within the early honeymoon days, however over the course of a lifetime. 🥲
IU as grownup Ae Solar and Geum Myeong
IU does double responsibility in our story, enjoying each Ae Solar and Ae Solar’s daughter, Geum Myeong.
This did make very often confused about who we have been taking a look at, when Present would soar timelines, however I completely purchase the concept that Geum Myeong is likely to be the spitting picture of her mom.
IU is great in each roles, and performs them as two distinct people, with every having her personal physique language and private vibe. I believed this was actually excellently executed.
I’ve to confess, although, that between the 2 characters, my comfortable spot is for IU as Ae Solar. 🥲
Park Bo Gum as Gwan Sik
I like-love-loveddd Park Bo Gum as Gwan Sik, and as wonderful as Park Hae Joon is, as older Gwan Sik (extra on him in only a bit), I’ve to confess that in my thoughts’s eye, after I consider Gwan Sik, it’s Park Bo Gum’s Gwan Sik that involves thoughts. 🥲
Gwan Sik’s written as a personality who’s solely ever had eyes for Ae Solar, and I simply love how steadfast and devoted Gwan Sik is, and the way constant and resilient he’s, in his love for her, and likewise, for his or her household.
Because the household’s supplier, it at all times moved me to see how onerous Gwan Sik labored, and the way a lot he would push himself, and the way a lot he would endure, for the sake of his household.
He could also be a person of few phrases, however this love in motion, spoke a lot louder, and I discovered it totally affecting. 🥹🥹
Moon So Ri as older grownup Ae Solar
I totally loved Moon So Ri as older Ae Solar, and one of many causes is as a result of, in her, I felt like I may nonetheless really feel youthful Ae Solar’s girlish, pure coronary heart.
On the identical time, I felt like in Moon So Ri’s arms, we additionally see Ae Solar mellow in her center age, which is a beautiful indication of development and maturity, from the youthful and far more impetuous Ae Solar of earlier than.
Park Hae Joon as older grownup Gwan Sik
As a lot as I missed Park Bo Gum in Gwan Sik’s sneakers as our timelines moved ahead, I’ve to say that I believe Park Hae Joon does an incredible job of the function.
In truth, there have been many events after I felt just like the facial expressions and gestures that we get from Park Hae Joon are uncannily like what Park Bo Gum gave us, as youthful Gwan Sik.
General, I felt that Park Hae Joon channels a really comparable kind of power into his supply of Gwan Sik – simply, extra mature, now that Gwan Sik’s older.
I don’t know if the 2 actors mentioned this, or if it’s PD-nim who’s chargeable for making certain this, however I’m actually impressed by this.
The haenyeo aunties
I had an actual comfortable spot for the haenyeo aunties; they’re fiesty, cheeky and vocal, but additionally, so resilient, loyal and loving.
I like that they’re such a security internet for Ae Solar, by the years; they are surely like a bonus household, and I like that. 🥲
Na Moon Hee as Gran
Like I alluded to earlier, Na Moon Hee doesn’t have that a lot display time as Gran, however when Gran will get to take centerstage, oh my, does Na Moon Hee shine. 🤩
She performs Gran with a lot depth and nuance, and though lots of her scenes are on the shorter facet of issues, I nonetheless felt like I used to be seeing Gran, with all of her years of historical past and context, etched into her forehead, informing her each phrase and gesture.
Love. ❤️
[DETAILED DEEP DIVE & THEREFORE SPOILERS HENCEFORTH!]
SPOTLIGHT ON CHAPTER 1: SPRING
E1-4. I liked these first 4 episodes, and really feel totally invested within the journey of our characters, and I each need this present to maneuver sooner and slower, on the identical time – which is principally how I are inclined to really feel, after I love a present an incredible deal, and wish to watch extra episodes of it, but additionally, don’t truly need the top to return. 🥲
Off the highest of my head, I really feel like this present jogs my memory a good deal, of a handful of different exhibits, like Our Blues, Jeongnyeon, Pachinko and even Oshin.
It’s the assorted comparable components that soar out at me, that lead me to make the comparability.
In Our Blues (evaluate right here) (and in Welcome to Samdalri (evaluate right here) too, to some extent), we had the give attention to the haenyeo, and what it means to be one; the hazards, the hardship and the group.
In Jeongnyeon (evaluate right here), we had the strain between mom and daughter, the place Mom’s lived a tough life and vehemently doesn’t need Daughter to comply with in her footsteps.
And in Pachinko (evaluate right here), we’ve bought the intersplicing of timelines, the place we see youthful and older actors enjoying the identical characters, as we transfer between moments previously and the current.
After which there’s Oshin, which had been about one girl’s life, and her journey to carry herself and her household from poverty – which can be the vibe that I’m getting right here.
All of those components are coming collectively very well for me, and altogether, Present is serving up a narrative that’s participating, poignant and heartfelt, and fairly universally accessible, I really feel.
I’ve to say, simply one among my favourite arcs is the mother-daughter relationship, which we delve into, in episode 1.
And earlier than I get into that, I simply need to gush about Kim Tae Yeon, who performs younger Ae Solar; lady is simply so pure and superb! 🤩🤩
She imparts a simple depth and nuance to her supply, that make me totally imagine that that is younger Ae Solar, filled with difficult emotions about her life, and simply as full, on the identical time, with goals for a greater and brighter future – and never understanding the right way to reconcile the 2. 🥲
And naturally, there’s Yeom Hye Ran, who’s at all times superb; she made Mother so uncooked and offended, but so filled with delight and love for her daughter. I liked her, a lot.
Mother does the factor that moms do; she pushes her personal physique to the sting with out hesitation, if solely to provide her youngsters just a little extra and just a little higher.
And, I can’t blame her for her anger, both; she’s suffered a lot previously, and continues to undergo a lot within the current, with nothing a lot to indicate for it.
She nonetheless lives in poverty and uncertainty, and feels helpless as a result of she will’t give her youngsters the sort of life that she feels they deserve.
Mother is gruff about pushing Ae Solar to dwell along with her father’s household, but it surely shortly turns into clear why she’d do this; it’s as a result of her father’s household is healthier off, and would have the ability to afford to ship Ae Solar to high school.
Oh, however when Mother’s coronary heart is triggered, her huge Mama Bear power comes out immediately, and I like how, when she reads Ae Solar’s prize-winning poem, she brings croakers to Ae Solar’s father’s household house – after which when she sees that they’re not treating Ae Solar nicely, she marches proper over, kicks up an enormous ol’ fuss, and takes Ae Solar along with her.
Mother’s very gruff and tough a variety of the time, however the delight that she has in Ae Solar, and the hopes that she has for her, change into clearer and clearer to see, and I quickly bought the thought, that Ae Solar actually is Mother’s delight and pleasure. 🥲
It’s due to Ae Solar that Mother decides to give up smoking, and it’s additionally due to Ae Solar, that Mother borrows that pearl necklace, in order that she will go to Ae Solar’s instructor, to attempt to put in a very good phrase for Ae Solar, due to how unfairly Ae Solar had misplaced the category president place.
The best way Ae Solar tries her greatest to sound upbeat about being vice-president, and faux to not thoughts, is so poignant to see.
That is such a show of affection and consideration, from each mom and daughter. 🥲
I used to be gutted to be taught, time skip later, that Mother was sick, and didn’t have a lot time to dwell.
That scene the place Ae Solar sits by the ocean and screams and cries on her mom’s behalf, is simply heartbreaking. 💔
One other scene which broke my coronary heart much more, is the one the place Mother wakes Ae Solar as much as cook dinner her abalones, and discuss along with her, giving her life recommendation, in addition to telling Ae Solar to run away to her father’s household as soon as Mother was gone, as a result of they’d have the ability to pay for Ae Solar’s faculty bills.
Afterwards, we see Mother singing Ae Solar to sleep. 🥹
The whole lot’s simply further poignant, as a result of it’s clear to see that Mother knew that her time was virtually up, and wished to spend some particular high quality time with Ae Solar. 😭
After which, after all the heartbreak solely will get larger, when Mother truly passes away.
I used to be fairly blindsided to be taught that Mother had solely been 29 years previous, when she’d handed. What a brief, tough life she’d led, and what it’s much more poignant, is the data that Mother’s expertise hadn’t been that out of the atypical, for the instances. 💔
By means of all of it, I’m glad that Gwan Sik’s there, for Ae Solar.
The connection between Ae Solar and Gwan Sik actually is the opposite huge spotlight of our story.
I discover it supremely endearing, that Gwan Sik’s solely ever had eyes for Ae Solar, from the time they have been youngsters, and that he’s at all times saved particular treats of meals, only for her – that’s positively his language of affection, and it’s cute. 🥲
Despite the fact that Gwan Sik (Lee Chun Moo) is simply a few years older than Ae Solar, he’s actually only a child as a lot as she is, and but, I really feel heartened that in the course of the hardest instances in Ae Solar’s life, Gwan Sik’s at all times been there for her.
Even when Ae Solar had cried for her mom, Gwan Sik had been along with her, and introduced her meat, and advised her, in his awkward, matter-of-fact approach, that she’d be hungry if she cries. 🥹
After which he’s there, as Ae Solar mourns her mom, and in all the times afterward.
He helps her plow that discipline, and harvest these cabbages, and he even helps her promote them, along with her little cabbage stall arrange subsequent to his fish stall.
..And this feels about as apt a time as any, to say that I’m additionally very a lot having fun with IU and Park Bo Gum within the roles of Ae Solar and Gwan Sik; they’re each very wonderful. 🤩
This isn’t the sort of romance that we usually see in kdramas, the place the OTP relationship takes centerstage, and we spend episode upon episode teasing out the OTP relationship, and ready for the minting of the OTP relationship.
No, on this case, stuff occurs a complete lot sooner, and all of it lands as very earthy and unvarnished – however I nonetheless discover it very participating heart-tugging.
I simply love how steadfast and dependable Gwan Sik is; his devotion to Ae Solar actually appears unshakable, it doesn’t matter what comes their approach.
And Ae Solar would possibly discuss huge about not wanting Gwan Sik even when his household gave him to her, however beneath that huge discuss, she actually does like Gwan Sik.
Why else would she stroll along with her hand in his pocket as a matter of behavior, and why else would she placed on lip gloss – simply in order that she’d at all times be prepared for kisses? 😁
And the way about that first kiss? It’s so clumsy and ardent, the way in which they freeze and lock lips in that discipline of flowers; it’s simply all very awkwardly cute. 🥰😁
When Ae Solar all of a sudden finds her life scenario modified, along with her stepfather (Oh Jung Se) remarrying, and her father’s household unwelcoming, I actually love the way in which Gwan Sik is keen to go away all the things behind, to run away along with her, in order that they’ll make a brand new life for themselves in Busan.
Sure, it’s silly and naive, that they’d assume this is able to work out with none points, however that largeness of their hopes, goals and love, is admittedly endearing.
I additionally discover it sweetly touching, that though they don’t have anything a lot, and don’t actually know what the long run holds, Gwan Sik does his highest to guard Ae Solar, and supply for her. 🥲
He’s simply all-in with Ae Solar, no matter what it’s, and that’s actually clear to see, after they get scammed out of their cash and belongings.
He by no means as soon as says they need to hand over, and simply follows Ae Solar to attempt to steal their stuff again, though he’s terrified. 🥲
Given Ae Solar’s goals of being a poet, it’s heartbreaking that her goals are shattered straight away, when she’s expelled for operating away (how unfair, that Gwan Sik is suspended, however Ae Solar is expelled! Really an indication of the instances 😑).
It’s sneaky of Gwan Sik’s mother (Oh Min Ae) to inform Ae Solar that Ae Solar would solely maintain Gwan Sik again from attaining his goals, however I can see why Ae Solar would imagine her, and select to push Gwan Sik away, for his personal sake.
That scene, the place Ae Solar tells Gwan Sik that he has to go away, to ensure that her to dwell, is totally heartbreaking; I felt utterly gutted by the heartbreak in Gwan Sik’s eyes, as Ae Solar’s phrases, and the brand new actuality that she was speaking about, start to sink in. 😭
I can see why Gwan Sik would then put together to go away, for Ae Solar’s sake. He’d at all times executed all the things for Ae Solar’s sake, and it is sensible that if he believed that Ae Solar wished it, he would depart too.
After which, HOW EPIC WAS THAT REUNION SCENE??? 🥹🤩🥹🤩🥹
The desperation on each side is so uncooked that it jumped out of my display to hit me within the intestine, with Ae Solar screaming and crying for Gwan Sik, and Gwan Sik beside himself with panic, in wanting the boat to show again.
The best way Gwan Sik actually jumps overboard and SWIMS STRAIGHT TO AE SUN, is simply epic.
What a neat approach to reveal that the game which Gwan Sik’s been coaching in, is swimming! 🤭
Oh, however I simply liked – LOVEDDD – that tearful reunion scene, as Gwan Sik lastly has his Ae Solar in his arms once more. 🥹🥹🥹
Simply, so satisfying and so stunning. ❤️
As a facet be aware, can I simply say that I simply love all of the haenyeo for being our OTP’s decided, vocal little cheer squad? The best way they’re so fortunately gleeful at our OTP’s reunion is the right bonus. 😁
I discover it sweetly poignant, that after we fast-forward to the time when Gwan Sik and Ae Solar are younger mother and father to their toddler, they’re each so pleased and content material, though they’d each given up a lot, with a view to be collectively.
Their hearts are so full of affection, as they bask of their daughter, and it’s simply very touching, that they discover their sacrifice so worthwhile, and now, solely hope that their daughter will have the ability to fulfill the goals that they by no means bought to. 🥹
In episode 4, one other time skip later, it’s poignant to see how Ae Solar’s placing up with the bullying from her mother- and grandmother-in-law, with out saying a phrase to Gwan Sik, in order to not burden him additional.
Truthfully, when Ae Solar brings again that tricycle and that huge bundle of issues from her stepfather’s spouse, I discovered the enjoyment in her face tremendous endearing.
Her life is hard, and but, right here she is, taking such unadulterated pleasure within the little issues. I love her for that.
It’s additionally very poignant to me, that when Gwan Sik tells her that he’d do something she needs, Ae Solar’s solely request, is that he make it such that their daughter Geum Myeong will get to journey it, as an alternative of being confined to the kitchen like her.
The best way Ae Solar waves so fortunately at Gwan Sik, as Geum Myeong rides that tricycle, though she herself is caught working within the kitchen, feels so pure and valuable.
Her pleasure is totally within the blessings of her daughter, and the love and dependability of her husband. 🥲
(And I need to say, I admire that sooner or later timeline, we get to see Geum Myeong make a agency stand for her profession, as a result of she insists on trying upon it with worth and dignity – which is what Ae Solar had at all times wished for her. 🥲)
When Gran-in-law (Kim Yong Rim) tries to power Geum Myeong to change into a haenyeo, the way in which Ae Solar places her foot down is so fiercely determined; she’ll undergo injustice and poor remedy, however she received’t compromise on this.
I do love that Ae Solar has such sharp readability on this, though she has no clue what she’s going to do.
Once more, I like Gwan Sik’s steadfast, unwavering loyalty; he simply exhibits up, and takes his spouse and daughter away.
He has no clue both what they’re going to do, however he’s extraordinarily clear on the truth that he’s not going to face for a way his household treats Ae Solar, and I simply love him for it. 🥲
It’s no surprise that sooner or later timeline, Ae Solar shyly admits to Geum Myeong, that if she needed to do it over once more, she’d nonetheless marry Gwan Sik. How stunning. 🥰🥹
I really feel so sorry for Gwan Sik going to work for Sang Gil (Choi Dae Hoon), the wealthy dude whom Ae Solar had been on the brink of marry, as a result of Sang Gil is a horrible excuse for a human being, with the way in which he bullies Gwan Sik, and even refuses to show the boat round when Gwan Sik will get injured, which results in everlasting harm to Gwan Sik’s hand. 😭
And but, Gwan Sik troopers on, all for the love of his household and wanting to offer for them, and I’m simply moved to tears right here. 😭
I’m glad that when Ae Solar catches wind of all this, she principally cusses Sang Gil out, tells him that Gwan Sik will not be working for him, and even kicks him within the shins.
This, whereas fairly closely pregnant too. What a star! 🤩
Sure, she sobs afterwards whereas holding Gwan Sik’s hand, but it surely’s simply actually touching and endearing to me, how the each of them put one another above all the things else – even sensible issues like monetary stability and earnings.
I discover it totally touching, that we get to see them, virtually 30 years later, nonetheless holding arms, and nonetheless as devoted to one another. 🥲
I’m positively involved that Gwan Sik’s physique appears to be breaking down right here and there, however for now, I’m simply so glad to see that Gwan Sik and Ae Solar have managed to remain collectively and love one another, by thick and skinny, over literal many years.
It looks like a blessing in and of itself, and I’m simply tearfully content material. 🥹
SPOTLIGHT ON CHAPTER 2: SUMMER
E5-8. Upon reflection, I understand that Present is doing an incredible job of balancing our numerous threads from completely different timelines – and conserving them intertwined, in order that shifting from one timeline to a different simply looks like an extension of a selected thread.
I actually like this, as a result of this ensures that we get to see numerous characters on our screens, even after we’re technically previous their timeline, in our story.
I personally admire this rather a lot, as a result of I’m keen on Yeom Hye Ran enjoying Mother, and IU enjoying Ae Solar, and Park Bo Gum enjoying Gwan Sik, and don’t wish to say goodbye them, even after we transfer into the middle-aged years with Ae Solar and Gwan Sik. 🥲
Backing as much as episode 5, nonetheless, I discovered it a poignant factor in and of itself, to observe IU and Park Bo Gum as Ae Solar and Gwan Sik, navigating life as younger mother and father attempting to offer for his or her little household.
Their apparent youth is just a little trippy to behold, as a result of it’s such a distinction to what younger individuals at their age are typically busy with, in our world.
As an alternative of being busy with their very own training or profession, as many younger individuals their age can be, in our world, they’re overwhelmed with the gritty realities of what it means to be mother and father, and the very actual battle to place meals on the desk.
I really feel like I can virtually see the enormous burden on Gwan Sik’s shoulders, as the top of the family and major breadwinner.
He doesn’t say a phrase about it, however I really feel like I can see the fear etched into his forehead, at the same time as he does his greatest to maintain an emotionless poker face, in order to not fear Ae Solar. 🥲
On that be aware, I simply need to say, I actually, deeply love Gwan Sik as a personality; he’s so easy and steadfast in his devotion to Ae Solar and their little household, and thru these episodes, there have been various events when he had me in literal tears. 🥲
I’ll discuss extra about these later.
Proper now, I wished to additionally take a second to understand Ae Solar.
She must be simply as involved as Gwan Sik, about his lack of labor, and the pressure that this places on their monetary scenario.
But, in her eyes, Gwan Sik’s psychological and emotional wellbeing takes priority.
Not as soon as does she scold him or nag him, or put any further strain on him, in any approach.
In truth, what we see, is her persistently worrying for him, that he’s burdened himself an excessive amount of, or working too onerous.
What we hear her inform him as an alternative, is that it’s okay for him to take a break; that he’s earned it, and that she’ll earn cash for the household, if essential.
I discover this all very touching, that Gwan Sik and Ae Solar persistently put one another first, even within the midst of very actual struggles and issues, the place their little household may actually starve. 🥲
I’ve to admit that by all of their struggles, I discovered it a consolation to often pop by the long run timeline, if solely as a result of it gave me a visible reminder that Ae Solar and Gwan Sik make it, collectively, and because of this no matter storms we’re witnessing previously timeline, will cross. 🥲
It’s poignant, on the identical time, to see how Ae Solar has mellowed through the years.
At this level, after we have a look at middle-aged Ae Solar, the goals that she’d as soon as held so fiercely, are however distant specks in her reminiscence, and her pleasure comes from her household, and the little pleasures in life, like a reduction on produce on the market, or a hand-me-down pair of floral sneakers from Geum Myeong.
It’s.. bittersweet, with extra emphasis on the candy, as a result of to me, a very powerful factor is that Ae Solar is pleased and content material. 🥲
Nonetheless, this doesn’t take away from the uncooked sharpness of the scene the place youthful Ae Solar lies in mattress and tearfully tells Gwan Sik that she will’t wait to develop previous, as a result of all the things continues to be too scorching for her. 💔
I discover it very touching, that by all of the tough seasons, Ae Solar and Gwan Sik stick collectively so naturally, though these sorts of struggles usually and simply put pressure on marriages typically.
I actually like that little element, that Ae Solar, her face nonetheless moist with tears, tells Gwan Sik, very merely, to carry her and pat her again.
Our Ae Solar understands how easy Gwan Sik is, and doesn’t check him by anticipating him to know the right way to consolation her; as an alternative, she tells him the right way to consolation her, and that helps a lot, I believe, to maintain their marriage stable, by the storms.
I’ve to say, I discovered the flashback, the place we see Mother going with Gran to have her picture taken, extraordinarily shifting and heartpinching.
The best way Mother is susceptible with Gran, telling her that she’s afraid of getting her image taken, due to superstition, but additionally, as a result of she is aware of in her intestine, that that is going to be her funeral picture.
We actually barely see Mother and Gran interacting in our story world; that is the second the place we see them interacting essentially the most, and I’m struck by how Gran is so able to be there for Mother, when Mother asks.
When Mother talks about being afraid to have her image taken, I so admire Gran for saying that she’ll have hers taken too; it’s such a beautiful demonstration of solidarity, significantly within the context that she and Mother have been sort of estranged for years, since Dad’s loss of life.
And the way touching is it, that Gran personally places on lipstick for Mother, saying that that is how her youngsters will bear in mind her, and that pink will look good on her. Such mild, sensible compassion. My coronary heart. 🥹
It’s very heart-pinching as nicely, when Mother says that she’ll preserve Dad firm within the afterlife, and Gran breaks down in tears, asking Mother to inform him that she’s sorry.
And what a motherly factor for Mother to do, to ask Gran to observe over Ae Solar and assist her simply as soon as, if Ae Solar ever involves her when life will get too onerous.
The truth that Mother understands Ae Solar so nicely, and is aware of that if Ae Solar truly bought to the purpose of going to Gran to ask for assist, it might imply that life is admittedly, actually robust, actually will get me within the coronary heart.
I discover it deeply touching, that Gran would preserve that promise, as we watch her give Ae Solar her life financial savings, in order that Gwan Sik can purchase a ship.
The best way Gran talks concerning the ache of dropping a baby, is, on hindsight, a foreshadowing of issues to return, however within the meantime, I’m so grateful that Gran has, along with her loyalty and generosity, given Gwan Sik and Ae Solar a lifeline with which to avoid wasting their total household.
I liked basking within the exuberance and cheer in each Gwan Sik and Ae Solar, as everybody gathers to bless the boat, and it looks like such a particular second, to see Ae Solar dancing with a smile – and Gwan Sik watching her, with a good larger smile. 🥰🥲
It was a pleasure to see their little household increasing, and Ae Solar consuming nicely, whereas fortunately teasing her mother-in-law.
After which it was breathtakingly touching, to see Gwan Sik current Ae Solar with a home – and never simply any home, however the home that had belonged to her mom.
AUGH. What higher reward may he have given her, actually? 🥲🥲
How considerate of Gwan Sik, to recollect all of the tales that Ae Solar had advised him, about visiting her mom at this home, and the way profoundly loving, to make it his purpose, to provide Ae Solar this home, in order that she would really feel that reference to Mother. 🥹😭🥹
It’s the primary true house that Ae Solar can name her personal, and it’s the home that incorporates all of her recollections with Mother. It’s so stunning. Gulp.
As Ae Solar cries overwhelmed pleased tears in Gwan Sik’s arms, I’m crying too. 😭
And maybe Present is leaning into this home and the way it deepens Ae Solar’s reference to Mother, with the way in which Mother seems in Ae Solar’s dream, proper earlier than she goes into labor along with her third youngster – and reminds her, that their neighbor has a truck.
And mentioned truck, is how Ae Solar finally ends up being rushed to hospital. Aw. Mother thinks of all the things. 🥲
It was additionally enjoyable to see Ae Solar turning into deputy chief of the fishing affiliation, with everybody’s assist – regardless of Bu Sang Gil’s protests. 😁
In episode 6, it was so very onerous, to observe Ae Solar and Gwan Sik lose their youngest youngster, by an unlucky chain of occasions.
Their grief is so deep, so uncooked, so painful and so profound. 😭😭
The disbelief and shock, turning right into a sinking despair, the place they every blamed themselves, was so tough to witness; after they cried, I cried too.
At this level, I simply have to provide props to Park Bo Gum, as a result of as sensible as IU’s supply completely was, it was his portrayal of Gwan Sik’s grief, that basically hit me within the coronary heart.
The guttural groans, sounding like they have been being squeezed out of a cracked nook of his coronary heart; the crumpling of his total physique; the wordless sobs; I felt like my coronary heart was in a stranglehold, as I watched him weep. 😭😭😭
I so admire that Ae Solar has Mother’s phrases on knowledge to depend on, throughout this time.
It looks like Mother had recognized, that there can be such days in Ae Solar’s future; {that a} time would come, when Ae Solar would possibly really feel too wretched to hold on – and that’s when her phrases to Ae Solar, to battle with all her would possibly, and that she’d get by the darkish waters, and see the sky, change into the rock that Ae Solar leans on.
It’s actually poignant to observe Ae Solar and Gwan Sik pull themselves collectively for the sake of their youngsters, after which it’s heartbreaking, to appreciate that each particular person within the household blames themselves, for the tragedy of dropping their youngest. 💔
I’m glad that Gwan Sik pronounces it so firmly, that nobody of their household is guilty for what occurred – however then, after we be taught later, that he’d blamed himself for years afterwards, for going to construct that retaining wall, my coronary heart breaks for him over again. 😭😭
That scene, the place we see Gwan Sik filling within the paperwork for the loss of life certificates, after which breaking down then and there, within the civil affairs workplace, in swallowed, heaving sobs, simply broke my coronary heart. 💔
It truly is touching, although, to see how everybody within the village comes collectively to offer assist for our younger household, of their bereavement. 🥲
Time skip later, I’m comforted to see that Ae Solar and Gwan Sik are nonetheless doing nicely, and that Gwan Sik continues to be so unconditionally supportive of Ae Solar, no matter what it’s that she needs to do – even when it’s operating for the place of Chief of the fishing affiliation. 🥲
I’ve to admit that I’m much less excited by their foibles with their troublemaker son (Kang Yoo Seok), than I’m with their difficult relationship with Geum Myeong, as she fulfills Ae Solar’s dream of going to SNU. 🥲
I do really feel for Geum Myeong, as she should really feel like she bears the burden of her household’s goals, at the same time as she struggles with the excessive price of residing in Seoul.
I’m low-key amused at Geum Myeong’s on-again, off-again relationship along with her soldier boyfriend Yeong Beom (Lee Jun Younger), largely as a result of there are particular components that echo Ae Solar’s relationship with Gwan Sik.
That second when it dawns on Gwan Sik, when Yeong Beom confesses that Geum Myeong retains breaking apart with him as a result of he by no means says something, is ruefully humorous to me.
Poor Gwan Sik; his horror at Geum Myeong probably being with a person who’s rather a lot like him, is sort of amusing.
The arc that leaves a deeper impression on me, although, is the one the place Geum Myeong will get falsely accused of theft, when she refuses to impersonate her scholar to take the school entrance exams, in trade for an residence in Seoul.
I like how Geum Myeong flatly turns down Wealthy Woman (Kim Geum Quickly), saying that her mother and father introduced her as much as be trustworthy, even when she needed to be final at school or go hungry. Aw. Ae Solar and Gwan Sik can be so proud. 🥲
It’s terrible that Wealthy Woman then activates Geum Myeong and reviews her for theft, however YAY for that accident, the place Housekeeper Woman seems to be that random lady whom Ae Solar and Gwan Sik had helped again in Busan, and principally forces Wealthy Woman to drop the costs towards Geum Myeong.
Truthfully, I’m glad that this arc will get solved so shortly, as a result of this enables us to discover the extra difficult, urgent factor, which is Geum Myeong’s conflicted emotions about her mother and father.
She loves them, however clearly, she is also annoyed with them; for being poor, for not understanding her, for not being extra expressive, and for the way in which that they love her, so sacrificially.
I imagine that’s why she will get upset at Gwan Sik, for touring such a good distance simply to see her, after which sitting out within the chilly for hours, simply ready for her.
In the long run, although, that’s the sweetness and the burden of sacrificial parental love, isn’t it? 🥲🥲
It’s very shifting to see that Ae Solar can be keen to let go of her mom’s home, if it meant that she may give her personal daughter the chance to review abroad.
That home means a lot to her, however her personal daughter’s future means a lot extra – and that simply encapsulates a mother or father’s love, so nicely.
I did love that we get one other scene of Mother visiting Ae Solar in her goals, and inspiring her to speak with Gwan Sik about their shared grief on the lack of their youngster – once more, motherly knowledge that Ae Solar may solely get from Mother.
That scene, of Mother patting Ae Solar’s head and stroking her hair, as Ae Solar ekes out tearfully, that she survives, by forgetting briefly now and again, is so very poignant.
On this second, it looks like Ae Solar’s grown into the knowledge that Mother had left for her, and it’s so fantastically bittersweet. 🥲🥲
As we shut out episode 8, it looks like Present’s executed an exquisite job of demonstrating how Mother’s goals had been handed on to Ae Solar, and now, how Ae Solar’s goals have been handed on to Geum Myeong.
A mother or father’s dream is such an attractive, burdensome factor, that, regardless of its weightiness, additionally presents wings with which to take flight. 🥲🥹
It’s deeply, sweetly shifting, to see the enjoyment that shines from Ae Solar’s face, from having offered her home, for the sake of giving Geum Myeong wings.
There’s so, a lot expansive love right here, and so, a lot tremulous hope. Stunning. 🥲
SPOTLIGHT ON CHAPTER 3: AUTUMN
E9-12. Present continues to be serving up masses and a great deal of coronary heart, and I discover that that coronary heart has sooo a lot to do with a mother or father’s love for his or her youngster, and what they’re keen to do, for the sake of their youngsters’s happiness, safety and future.
It’s all very touching and affecting for me, as a result of my mother and father are typical Asian mother and father too, and Ae Solar’s love language – meals and private sacrifice – may be very a lot much like my very own mother’s love language. 🥲
In episode 9, it’s actually fairly poignant to see the household – Ae Solar particularly – alter to life in an residence, after giving up their home with a view to enable Geum Myeong to review in Japan.
It’s actually so candy of Gwan Sik to attempt to cheer Ae Solar up by wallpapering the bed room in a print that he thinks she likes; I did need to giggle a bit, at how Ae Solar is suitably cheered up – and admits, in the identical breath, that the print is cheesy. 😂
Aww. It’s the center that issues, although, and Gwan Sik’s expensive coronary heart that desires to make Ae Solar smile within the face of this huge adjustment, is totally the explanation Ae Solar cheers up. 🥲
And the way sweetly endearing is it, that Ae Solar says that wherever Gwan Sik was, was house to her; that it didn’t matter what their bodily environment have been. 🥲
Present has a approach of serving up reality bombs each from time to time, that make me really feel like I must pause for a second, to essentially let it sink in.
One can be that second in episode 9, when Ae Solar turns to her haenyeo aunties and asks when she’ll be totally grown, and one of many aunties turns round and says that she herself isn’t totally grown but.
That’s simply so true, y’know.. I don’t really feel totally grown both, and I really feel prefer it’s the key that nobody truly tells you – you by no means ever really feel totally grown. We’re all at all times within the means of rising up. 🥲
And, identical to Present says, we do develop up, little by little, each time our hearts really feel some rising pains.
That second when Eun Myeong places in effort to make Ae Solar’s spot at her avenue stall just a little extra heat, cozy and comfy, is without doubt one of the indicators of him rising up just a little as nicely.
One other second of reality dropped, is in episode 10, when one of many aunties says that Ae Solar shouldn’t deal with Eun Myeong like she’s tossing a radish; that even the sturdiest radish can crack on within the inside.
That’s a really poignant reminder that all of us have emotions, and even somebody who seems to be robust on the skin, could possibly be hurting on the within, sure? 🥲
On the opposite facet of the ocean, we additionally see that it’s not straightforward for Geum Myeong, who looks like she’s bearing the burden of her household’s goals.
It hurts her to see proof of her mother and father’ sacrifice, like the truth that Ae Solar’s again to operating a avenue stall, understanding that Ae Solar’s doing this, for her sake.
It’s little surprise that Geum Myeong makes that promise to herself, to by no means steal their goals once more, which interprets as a choice to by no means burden them once more as nicely – which we see seep into each choice that Geum Myeong makes.
From selecting to dwell in a rundown rental room, to taking up that job on the theater, it’s all about not burdening her household additional.
The factor that basically grabbed my consideration essentially the most, these episodes, was Geum Myeong’s relationship with Yeong Beom, and the disapproval she confronted, from his mom.
I gotta hand it to Kang Myung Joo, who performs Yeong Beom’s mom; she actually makes Yeong Beom’s mother come throughout as effortlessly disdainful, in the way in which she seems to be at Geum Myeong.
Each time Disdainful Mother gave Geum Myeong one other one among her withering stares, my coronary heart sank just a little deeper, on the considered the long run that lay forward of Geum Myeong, if she have been to marry Yeong Beom.
Despite the fact that Geum Myeong’s unfailingly well mannered and restrained in entrance of Disdainful Mother, I admire that when she’s alone with Yeong Beom, we get to listen to her true ideas; that she hates being handled like this, and she or he’s conscious that Yeong Beom’s mother won’t ever like her, it doesn’t matter what she does.
It’s a sucky scenario, however I’m at the very least relieved that Geum Myeong doesn’t truly imagine that she deserves to be handled this fashion.
I like that soundbite that we get when she’s having supper with Cheong Seop, when she says that she’s valuable to her mother and father too, and feels that when she retains her head held excessive, her mother and father’ delight is saved intact too. 🥲
I like that readability that Geum Myeong has, and we do see it come into play later, however I’ll discuss extra about that later.
Within the meantime, Geum Myeong does make it clear to Yeong Beom, that she received’t marry him if he chooses to be his mom’s son, but it surely’s not as straightforward because it sounds.
She’s invested actual feelings into this relationship, and she or he and Yeong Beom do truly love one another, which is why they preserve attempting to make it work, regardless of Disdainful Mother’s greatest efforts to not directly intimidate Geum Myeong into backing away.
I perceive that from Disdainful Mother’s perspective, she’s defending her son, however I assume that is Present’s approach of demonstrating to us that an excessive amount of of a very good factor may be unhealthy; that even a mom’s love may be misguided and result in distress.
On the opposite finish of the spectrum, although, we do get to see a mom’s love in motion.
First, there’s the flashback to when Mother had rescued Ae Solar, when she’d virtually been kidnapped as a baby.
Augh. The best way Mother had rushed to seek out Ae Solar, till her toes had been scraped bloody by her sneakers, simply will get me within the coronary heart.
None of it had mattered to Mother; she’d solely cared about Ae Solar’s security. 🥲
After which there’s the way in which Mother had been so fiercely on guard, till she discovered the girl who’d tried to kidnap Ae Solar, on the off probability that the girl would attempt to kidnap Ae Solar once more.
On a tangent, I’m fairly certain that Present doesn’t imply that Mother and her group had actually killed that kidnapping couple with their beating; simply that they’d overwhelmed them totally, to show them a lesson they wouldn’t neglect. 😅
After which there’s the way in which Ae Solar takes that journey to Seoul, as a result of she’d had a nasty feeling about all of the unhealthy goals she’d been having – and arrives simply in time to avoid wasting Geum Myeong from dying from inhaling coal fumes.
On that be aware, I’ve to say, it was actually fairly affecting, to see into Ae Solar’s goals, and discover that she was dreaming, time and again, concerning the second she’d left Dong Myeong on his personal at house. 😭💔
On the one hand, how heartbreaking, that Ae Solar clearly lives with a lot guilt weighing on her, for Dong Myeong’s loss of life.
Alternatively, it does really feel like a launch of kinds, that lastly, in her dream, she sees herself going again for Dong Myeong, and patting him on the again, and promising him sweet, after she goes to convey his sister again house. Oof. My coronary heart. 😭
In a approach, Ae Solar attending to Geum Myeong in time to avoid wasting her, looks like a redemption of kinds?
Like, she’d been unable to avoid wasting Dong Myeong earlier than, however now, she’s saving Geum Myeong? 😭🥲
It was very poignant too, to see these flashbacks to when Ae Solar and Gwan Sik had saved Geum Myeong, time and again, each time she’d fallen into some inadvertent hazard.
Really, such protecting parental love. 🥰🥲
I’ve to confess that I rolled my eyes, identical to that nurse (Lee Bong Ryun) did, on the theatrics from Yeong Beom, when he involves see Geum Myeong on the hospital.
However the poignant parallel in his guarantees to Geum Myeong, to handle her and ensure that his household doesn’t bully her, is unmistakable; this has been the identical promise that Gwan Sik had as soon as declared, in his dedication to marry Ae Solar and make her pleased. 🥲
The distinction, right here, because it seems, is that Yeong Beom doesn’t have the identical sort of resilience that Gwan Sik had.
The place Gwan Sik had stood agency and refused to compromise, we see Yeong Beom pleading with Geum Myeong to simply get on his mother’s good facet – which, ugh. 🙄
I believe I kinda knew, from that second on, that issues weren’t trying good for this relationship.
It was painful watching that lunch which was the formal assembly of the households; Disdainful Mother was being sooo disdainful, and Ae Solar, Gwan Sik and Geum Myeong have been being so accommodating and restrained.
It was actually fairly heartbreaking, to see Ae Solar step as much as ladle the soup, since you simply know that the explanation she did that, is as a result of it broke her coronary heart to see Geum Myeong be humiliated like that, and she or he’d reasonably take that humiliation herself, than let her child undergo it. 😭
And the way loving is Gwan Sik, in the way in which he grasps Geum Myeong’s arms afterwards, and assures her that she’s doing all the things nicely; as a result of he is aware of that her delight should have taken such successful, from Disdainful Mother? 😭
After which how poignant is it, that the entire motive Ae Solar retains hurrying Gwan Sik to get within the cab in order that they’ll go away, is as a result of she is barely conserving it collectively, and must cry, out of Geum Myeong’s sight?? 😭
The love that Ae Solar and Gwan Sik have for his or her youngsters, actually brings me to tears. 😭
The scene on the hanbok place was terrible too; Disdainful Mother truly dictating what coloration hanbok Ae Solar may put on to the marriage, was simply an excessive amount of. 😤
The truth that Ae Solar bears with all of it, not as a result of she truly needs Geum Myeong to marry Yeong Beom, however as a result of she is aware of Geum Myeong loves him, is so painfully sacrificial.
I’m so pleased with Geum Myeong, for placing her foot down, and talking as much as Disdainful Mother, as soon as she realizes how Disdainful Mother’s handled Ae Solar, even telling Ae Solar that they need to work to cease the marriage from taking place.
I positively bought a stab of satisfaction from Geum Myeong stating for the file, that there’s not a single factor that embarrasses her about her household, and that her household had performed themselves with much more dignity than Disdainful Mother, by your entire means of the marriage prep.
I imply, I’m sorry for Geum Myeong’s struggling and heartbreak, however I actually do admire that Present demonstrates to us, that the way in which that Ae Solar’s painstakingly introduced up Geum Myeong, treating her like she’s valuable and worthwhile, has sunk roots and borne fruit.
Geum Myeong understands, in her coronary heart of hearts, that she doesn’t should be handled like lower than and unworthy, and that she doesn’t must marry Yeong Beom, with a view to make one thing of herself; she is sufficient, all on her personal.
And that’s one thing that solely happened, by the cautious, loving parenting that Ae Solar and Gwan Sik sowed, in order that Geum Myeong would dwell a special life. 🥲
I truly discovered this very touching.
I felt sympathetic in direction of Geum Myeong for the heartache of breaking apart with Yeong Beom, however not as soon as did I really feel that she ought to give the connection one other probability – even when Yeong Beom supplied to chop off his household for her sake.
Yeong Beom would possibly look like he has the identical sort of coronary heart as Gwan Sik, however he doesn’t have the resilience and fortitude that Gwan Sik has; I imagine that it might have by no means labored out with Yeong Beom.
I liked the thought of Geum Myeong going house to her mother and father, and being fed and liked to wholeness once more; that was actually precisely what she’d wanted – to be reminded over again, that she’s valuable and worthwhile, in and of herself.
I discovered it very heartwarmingly poignant, that Ae Solar and Gwan Sik would fuss over Geum Myeong a lot; it actually felt like their total lives have been lit up, by Geum Myeong’s return to the nest. 🥲
The enjoyment that shines out of their eyes, as they fuss over her, is simply splendidly candy and endearing, and it’s a wistful thought, that this as soon as Geum Myeong returns to Seoul, their home will change into quiet once more. 🥲
I did love that beat, when Gwan Sik wakes Geum Myeong as much as take her to see the dawn in his boat, and brings all of Geum Myeong’s favourite meals, that Ae Solar had painstakingly ready.
Such a valuable time, the place Gwan Sik and Geum Myeong have some daddy-daughter dialog, and it’s touching over again, to be reminded of how steadfastly unwavering Gwan Sik is, in loving and offering for his household; at all times getting up earlier than the dawn, and contending with worry within the storms, and not using a phrase of grievance. 🥲
My coronary heart is squeezing with some foreboding with Geum Myeong’s voiceover about her solar setting eternally, that alludes to Gwan Sik’s loss of life, however I’m attempting to swallow that foreboding, till I’ve no selection however to face it. 🙈
And, I’m distracting myself by reveling in a little bit of satisfaction, that Sang Gil is clearly jealous of Gwan Sik, that he would have a adequate relationship along with his daughter, that they’d exit to sea collectively, simply the 2 of them, to see the dawn. 😁
I additionally love the element that Ae Solar by no means did ship out the marriage invites, as a result of her intestine had advised her that Geum Myeong wouldn’t undergo with it – due to how Ae Solar had raised her.
Aw. I like that. 🥲
I like simply as a lot, that Ae Solar tells Geum Myeong that she’s executed nothing unsuitable, and has prevented a pile of poop, due to her luck. 😁
Such deep understanding, and such unconditional love. 🥹
After which we get one other reality bomb from Geum Myeong, as she muses in voiceover, that she receives a lot from her mother and father, and but, her smallest gesture makes them even.
This actually hit house for me; it’s such a real factor, that folks give a lot to their youngsters, that we are able to by no means pay it again. 🥲
We additionally see it in Gwan Sik’s relationship along with his mother, these episodes.
It’s true that he’s prioritized Ae Solar over her, all these years, and now, when he calls himself an ungrateful son in entrance of her, she tells him that simply surviving, is being a filial son. 🥲
Associated to this, we even have the scene the place Ae Solar goes to Gran’s birthday celebration, and it’s simply so poignant, to see that Gran remembers her, though she will’t bear in mind anybody else.
After which Present ramps up the poignance by a few thousand instances, with Gran seeing by Ae Solar’s trouble-free facade, to the ache that she nonetheless carries inside, over the lack of Dong Myeong – as a result of Gran is aware of precisely the way it feels, to lose a baby. 😭
The best way Ae Solar crumples right into a heap and sobs at Gran’s toes for a very long time, whereas Gran strokes her again with empathy, is simply so stunning and heartbreaking on the identical time. 😭😭
I discovered it unhappy to see Gran go, however I actually loved that little scene (supernatural bit? fantasy sequence?) the place Gran and Mother are collectively on the picture studio, and Gran’s placing pink lipstick on herself, for her funeral picture.
It’s such a poignant echo of when Gran had put pink lipstick on Mother, when Mother had had her funeral picture taken.
It feels very significant, that when Gran asks if she’s paid her debt, Mother tells her that she has, abundantly.
And when Mother asks Gran if her life had been an ordeal or a picnic, it’s so comforting to listen to Gran say that it had been a picnic – as a result of she’d gotten to see all her youngsters. 🥲
Once more, I already really feel unhappy and wistful, when Ae Solar tells Gwan Sik that when the time comes, they need to go collectively, and he doesn’t reply, and simply dusts off her floral sneakers.
Ack. We’re going to lose Gwan Sik quickly, aren’t we?? 🙈😭
On one other be aware, when it comes to Eun Myeong’s loveline with Bu Hyeon Suk (Lee Soo Kyung), I’m ruefully amused by how loopy in love they’re, and by the truth that Bu Hyeon Suk is Bu Sang Gil’s daughter.
It actually looks like such an ironic twist, on condition that Bu Sang Gil’s by no means fairly gotten over the truth that Ae Solar retracted her choice to marry him, with a view to marry Gwan Sik. 🤭
It’s additionally ruefully ironic, to see that the way in which they’re loopy in love, isn’t so completely different from the way in which Ae Solar and Gwan Sik had been loopy in love, towards their – nicely, his – mother and father’ needs.
It’s little surprise that Gwan Sik’s mother is so gleeful as she ribs Ae Solar about presumably dropping her son from proper underneath her nostril – as a result of that’s precisely what had occurred along with her and Gwan Sik. 😅
I discovered it fairly foolish and dramatic, that Eun Myeong and Hyeon Suk would have that ridiculously weepy goodbye scene in episode 10, solely to finish up collectively once more, however y’know, possibly this loveline would be the one to shock me, by being essentially the most enduring one, of their era..?
At any fee, Eun Myeong exhibiting up at house after his navy discharge, with a pregnant Hyeon Suk, does kinda-sorta remind me of Ae Solar and Gwan Sik, who’d gotten pregnant in Busan with Geum Myeong, earlier than they’d truly had their marriage ceremony ceremony.
We’re positively going to see how this unfolds, in our subsequent episodes; likewise for Geum Myeong’s relationship with Park Cheong Seop (Kim Seon Ho), which I haven’t talked about in these notes, as a result of they’re principally simply buddies, at this level.
I do admire, although, that we get to see them interacting over many alternative cases, and we additionally see Geum Myeong acknowledging Cheong Seop’s value and expertise, which I’m certain he deeply appreciates.
Plus, there’s additionally the factor the place Geum Myeong’s variety to Cheong Seop’s mother (Lee Ji Hyun), which I believed was very beautiful as nicely.
The truth that Cheong Seop left behind a portrait of Geum Myeong earlier than going to the navy, tells me that he already had emotions for Geum Myeong earlier than he left, and so I’m by no means shocked to see him chasing down that bus, the second he realizes that Geum Myeong’s in it.
I can hardly imagine that we’re already on the cusp of the top of this journey with these characters; I’m not able to say goodbye, y’all. 🥹🥹🥹
SPOTLIGHT ON CHAPTER 4: WINTER
E13-16. I’m a blubbering, contented mess as I come to the top of my watch of this present, my buddies.
There’s simply a lot right here, that I don’t even actually know the place to start to speak about it.
There are such pleased instances; there are additionally such unhappy instances; I really feel like my coronary heart’s been pulled in so many alternative instructions, in these 4.5 hours. 🥲
I like that we get to witness Geum Myeong’s marriage ceremony; she seems to be totally radiant on her marriage ceremony day, and I really feel like a proud mom hen, seeing her so pleased on her huge day.
It’s a beautiful, poignant contact that we see that Yeong Beom’s there to satisfy the promise that he’d as soon as blurted, so earnestly; that he would see her in her marriage ceremony costume.
I discover it very touching, that he would wish to preserve that promise, and that he retains it, with a softness in his gaze and a gentleness in his voice.
He is likely to be wistful that he’s not Geum Myeong’s groom, however there isn’t any anger or animosity there, on the may’ve been’s.
He’s purely there to satisfy that promise, to Geum Myeong and to himself, and I discover that fairly valuable, actually.
Importantly, we get the flashback of how Geum Myeong and Park Cheong Seop lastly reunite, with him chasing down her bus a second time – and succeeding, lastly.
I do discover it endearing that in spite of everything that reticence that we’ve seen from Cheong Seop, he’s lastly digging deep, to precise himself to Geum Myeong, and telling her issues like he looks like he’s going to drop lifeless (from sitting along with her, and holding her hand). 😁
It’s reasonably amusing to see Cheong Seop finally lastly meet Gwan Sik and Ae Solar, and attempting his darndest to win over Gwan Sik particularly, as a result of, on the finish of the day, Cheong Seop actually is like Gwan Sik the place it issues most.
He’s totally devoted to defending Geum Myeong, and giving her the area and respect that she deserves, and it’s actually actually heartwarming to see that the second Gwan Sik realizes this factor about Cheong Seop, he’s already accepted Cheong Seop as his son-in-law. 🥲
I additionally love that beat the place we see Ae Solar basking within the love and affection that Cheong Seop’s mother demonstrates in direction of Geum Myeong, with the way in which she lovingly and punctiliously dries these persimmons, as a present for Ae Solar.
Ahh. That was actually beautiful to see, particularly after we evaluate that to how Geum Myeong had was handled by Yeong Beom’s mom, who’d been her potential mother-in-law.
Like Ae Solar, I’m so happy that Geum Myeong will now have a mother-in-law who will treasure her like her personal – which is all that Ae Solar may want for, as a mother. 🥲
In the long run, I like what Geum Myeong says in voiceover; that whereas this isn’t her passionate old flame, this love is simply as huge, and simply of a special temperature; the temperature that enables her to totally be herself.
What an exquisite approach to put it, and what extra may one actually ask for, from one’s partner, sure? 🥲
One other second I liked on today, is how Gwan Sik is there for Geum Myeong, and tells her that she will again out at any time, identical to he’s at all times advised her, from the time she’d been little.
Gosh, these flashbacks of younger Gwan Sik fussing rigorously over Geum Myeong, at all times ensuring that she felt secure to solely do what she felt snug doing, and that she knew that she had a secure hiding place in him, actually had me by the center. 🥲🥲
Geum Myeong can’t assist however cry on the recollections, and at the truth that Gwan Sik’s crying too, as he sits within the viewers to witness the ceremony, and I’m all choked up in response.
I’m additionally all choked up, as Gwan Sik sees, in his thoughts’s eye, with tears in his eyes, Geum Myeong strolling down the aisle, as just a little lady, after which as a youngster, after which as a younger girl.
Geum Myeong’s voiceover too, that that’s how Gwan Sik misplaced his one-sided love, is so hit-me-in-the-heart poignant.
There’s simply a lot love there; a lot of it unstated, however all of it totally demonstrated. My coronary heart. 🥲
It’s in that very same spirit, that Gwan Sik and Ae Solar take care of Eun Myeong’s sudden troubles with the regulation, when his good friend and enterprise accomplice Cheol Yong runs off with all their cash in the midst of the evening.
This portion of our story actually is without doubt one of the extra sharply poignant arcs in our story, as a result of this offers with Gwan Sik’s and Ae Solar’s regrets and failures as mother and father.
In doing their greatest to take care of life and all the things that it threw at them, they’d sidelined Eun Myeong with out realizing it, of their each day phrases and actions, and that had finally led to this factor, of Eun Myeong feeling like he needed to do all the things it took, to show himself – which is how he bought scammed by Cheol Yong, and left to take the blame.
Oof. The concern and self-reproach that we see in each Gwan Sik and Ae Solar is admittedly so heartbreaking; you possibly can simply really feel how desperately they wish to save Eun Myeong, and the way desperately they need that they may flip again time, in order that they may love him higher. 😭
Within the current, the way in which they each prolong themselves to extremely uncomfortable lengths, with a view to save Eun Myeong, speaks volumes; that is how a lot they really love their son. 😭
The best way Ae Solar steps out of her default mild and restrained persona, to seize Mi Suk by the hair and assert that Mi Suk wants to assist repay her son’s wrongdoing – which is how she will get that new TV off Mi Suk, to promote, and the way in which Gwan Sik sells his valuable boat, with a view to save Eun Myeong, are each so self-sacrificial, in their very own methods.
It’s so, so poignant to see all of the recollections of the previous flood Gwan Sik’s thoughts, as he prepares handy over the boat to its new household, and it’s so significant as nicely, that the brand new boat captain’s names his boat after his little lady, identical to Gwan Sik had named the boat after his youngsters.
It looks like the start of a brand new cycle of life, and the thought does give me chills, at the same time as I really feel wistful for Gwan Sik, as he lets go of such a major piece of his life. 🥲
However I’m additionally grateful, that we get to see how he’s saved Ae Solar’s first poem for him, so preciously, all this time, in his logs.
And the way valuable, that as we get to listen to that poem, we additionally get to see the shy pleasure that had dawned on Gwan Sik’s face, when he’d first learn that poem, which was all about Ae Solar’s emotions for him:
M.F.L.
When it’s round, it’s annoying
When it’s not, I’m curious
Once I tease it, it’s effective
When others do, I get mad
With eyes open, I faux to not see
With eyes closed, its picture involves me
Unnoticed, like the ocean I see on daily basis
But with out it,
I’m alone within the huge world
Like sweet hidden in my mouth
Its sweetness overflows throughout
Is that this it
Is that this it
Is that why
My coronary heart stays in spring on daily basis.
Oof. So, so candy. 🥹
Not gonna lie; I completely bought a lump in my throat when Eun Myeong wails about why they offered the boat, and Ae Solar tells him that after all it’s as a result of he’s their #1.
Awww. A lot therapeutic and affirmation, in that compact little phrase. 🥲
The best way that Ae Solar and Gwan Sik start anew, working new jobs of their center age, and with out grievance, is admittedly touching.
After which the way in which Gwan Sik and Sang Gil work collectively to make sure that Eun Myeong will get prospects for his rice muffins – by giving individuals within the neighborhood cash to purchase mentioned rice muffins – comes from such a spot of quiet, sacrificial care as nicely.
On that be aware, I’ve to say that I’m pleasantly shocked by the bond that we see rising between Sang Gil and Gwan Sik.
They’ve come such a good distance, as in-laws, after these early days, when Gwan Sik had labored on Sang Gil’s boat, and had gotten bullied by Sang Gil.
On this be aware, I actually need to credit score Gwan Sik’s long-suffering, forgiving nature, as a result of within the current, he’s the one who reaches out to Sang Gil, and reminds him that they’re in-laws whether or not they prefer it or not, and even presents to assist Sang Gil see his grandson, each time he needs. 🥲
I can sort of see why Eun Myeong would consider going out to sea to earn a living, when he realizes that Gwan Sik is behind each buyer who’s purchased his rice muffins, however I’m nonetheless so glad, that Gwan Sik and Sang Gil handle to convey him again.
That flashback to youthful Ae Solar operating within the rain, looking for Dong Myeong, actually gave me chills; I instantly felt her worry, in probably additionally dropping Eun Myeong to the ocean which had additionally taken Dong Myeong. 😭
After this level, I’d actually had a very unhealthy feeling, after we see Gwan Sik stamping his seal on these actual property papers, to purchase that restaurant.
I simply sort of knew in my intestine, that he was getting scammed.
However actually, how candy is it, that as they’re driving on the market to that restaurant that’s actually in the midst of nowhere, Ae Solar declares that she received’t go away Gwan Sik, even when it seems to be a bust?
It’s even sweeter after we later hear her motive: that it’s as a result of it’s been 30 years since Gwan Sik’s had the identical look of pleasure in his eyes, the final time being the time they’d determined to run away collectively to Busan, to make a life collectively? 🥲
The sort of steadfast devotion that flows between Gwan Sik and Ae Solar actually is the muse stone of their relationship, and I simply love how wholly dedicated they’re, to one another, and to their household, whatever the circumstances. 🥹
When Geum Myeong provides beginning to her child, they’re instantly there, able to fuss, first, over her, as a result of she’s their valuable princess, after which, over their new grandchild. 🥲
And after they understand that they’ve been scammed, they stick collectively and make it work, with sheer diligence and persistence, and I like-love-LOVE that Gwan Sik’s concept, to offer supply of their scrumptious meals, provides them the breakthrough that they want.
Once more, I like that theme that recurs each from time to time, that the kindness of our key characters, comes again to assist them.
Beforehand, it had been the girl whom they’d helped in Busan, who’d come to Geum Myeong’s help when she’d been accused of theft.
And now, it’s the girl whom Gwan Sik had saved, who now endorses their restaurant, as a profitable actress. Aw. Pretty. 🥰
Even Cheol Yong will get caught, and Eun Myeong’s title will get cleared – and with Sang Gil’s assist, at that.
I do reasonably like that we get to see that Sang Gil’s not as terrible as he’d proven himself to be, in his youthful years.
That mentioned, I do really feel that Yeong Ran (Jang Hye Jin) makes the suitable selection, in divorcing him and beginning a brand new life. In any case that she’s suffered within the marriage, it looks like she’s lastly set herself free.
As we get into episode 16, I’ve to admit that my coronary heart was heavy, as a result of I knew that the time had come, for us to take care of Gwan Sik’s departure. 😭
I do very a lot admire although, that in the course of the course of the check-up, Ae Solar lastly features perception into the truth that Gwan Sik’s held a lot guilt in his coronary heart all these years, over Dong Myeong’s loss of life.
That cuts so deep, as a result of he’d so firmly and so valiantly advised everybody within the household that they weren’t guilty for Dong Myeong’s loss of life – however no one knew that he’d silently blamed himself for Dong Myeong’s loss. 😭
It’s a aid to see Ae Solar and Gwan Sik lastly being collectively, at Dong Myeong’s grave, though Ae Solar has to quietly comply with Gwan Sik there.
These flashbacks, of how Ae Solar had spent all that point at Dong Myeong’s grave, whereas Gwan Sik had secretly stayed close by, all watchful, in case Ae Solar’s grief overcame her and led her to do one thing self-destructive, actually hit me within the intestine.
That ache is so deep, and so uncooked for each of them, and it’s clear that the injuries simply proceed to remain the place they’re, through the years.
I’m simply glad that they lastly speak about how they really feel, regardless of the lingering ache and guilt; I really feel that this solely makes their relationship stronger. 🥲
I used to be gutted to be taught that Gwan Sik was sick, however the silver lining, I suppose, is that we get to spend a while with him, reasonably than have him be taken away unexpectedly.
It’s very touching that Ae Solar continues to remain shut by his facet by all of his remedies, and it’s additionally touching to see that Gwan Sik’s concern, isn’t for himself, however for a way Ae Solar would cope, after his passing. 😭
That scene, the place Gwan Sik asks Geum Myeong to say the evening on the hospital as an alternative of Ae Solar, in order that he may inform Geum Myeong all of the tales about Ae Solar, and ask her to be candy to Ae Solar after his passing, is so heartbreaking, actually. 💔
Geum Myeong’s guilt in direction of Gwan Sik, for taking his love as a right all these years, and for not telling him that she’s appreciated his reassuring presence all this time, now spilling out in uncooked, determined tears, actually hit me like a ton of bricks.
That sort of unexpressed, unstated dynamic feels so acquainted to me, as a result of that’s principally the sort of relationship I’ve with my mother and father too, and so, when Geum Myeong cries, my coronary heart sobs too. 😭
After which, there’s how Gwan Sik is so regular and assuring by all of it, patting Geum Myeong’s again and telling her that he is aware of how she feels, which makes me wish to cry, over again. 😭
Eun Myeong crying at Gwan Sik’s weight reduction and blubbering about how Gwan Sik had already proven him love, however that he’d selectively forgotten, additionally feels very relatable, and that made me cry too. 😭
The factor that basically had my coronary heart in a stranglehold, although, was Ae Solar’s newly written poem for Gwan Sik, her Steelheart.
To the Coronary heart That Leaves Me Behind.
I believed I needed to maintain your hand
To really feel its heat after I was younger
However now I do know you’re with me
Even if you happen to’re not by my facet
Now that I’ve a heat spot too
Simply the considered you
Warms my complete coronary heart
I’ll dwell understanding the moon continues to be there
Even in the course of the day
So if you happen to’re going to go away, go just like the mild waves.
After 50 years
Lastly set me down and be free
My valuable expensive
You will have labored so onerous
My valuable dearest
Right here’s to all you’ve been by.
AUGH. 😭😭😭
It’s Ae Solar’s love letter to Gwan Sik, assuring him that it’s okay for him to go away if he should, and that she’ll be okay, and that’s essentially the most loving, tenderhearted factor ever, and I’m tearing up over again, as I learn it now. 😭
It’s totally heartbreaking, but stunning, on the identical time. 💔🥹
I additionally love that Gwan Sik will get to see Ae Solar’s poem get printed, as a result of he’s at all times wished to assist her fulfill her goals, and has at all times felt unhealthy that none of her goals had come true as a result of she’d been married to him.
The best way he hugs the e-book to his chest and says he’s soo pleased, is precisely in Ae Solar’s signature tone when she says the identical factor, and I like that, a lot.
That scene afterwards, the place they discuss quietly in mattress, about their life, and his impending loss of life, and Ae Solar cries quietly whereas holding Gwan Sik’s hand, looks like such a uncooked, intimate, valuable kind of second between them; one to carry of their hearts eternally. 🥹
That closing second that Ae Solar and Gwan Sik share on the hospital, the place they lock eyes by the glass doorways, and have that silent, unstated dialog, is so, so poignant and delightful.
Ae Solar: It’s best to have been simpler on your self. Why have you ever aged so shortly?
Gwan Sik: However you’re nonetheless the identical.
Ae Solar: I’ve gotten older too.
Gwan Sik: No. You’re the identical. In my eyes, you’ve seemed the identical for the previous 50 years.
Geum Myeong in voiceover: There was a lady within the boy’s life. All his life, the boy saved the lady’s world secure.
Ae Solar: Thanks, honey. You’ve lived a very good life. A really nice life.
Gwan Sik: Was all of it proper? Was our time collectively good?
Ae Solar: It was greater than good. It was so great that I couldn’t have requested for extra.
Geum Myeong in voiceover: Gazing on the one particular person etched into his life… Dad slept in for the primary time. After leaving his final presents behind.
Gurgle. I’m a sobbing mess, simply studying these phrases, over again. 😭😭
And it feels so very significant, that we get to see youthful Ae Solar and youthful Gwan Sik, gazing at one another with their hearts full, as they shared this closing, valuable second. 🥹🥹
Afterwards, it one way or the other gutted me extra, after we see that Gwan Sik had left behind presents for everybody, and the factor that made me cry essentially the most, was seeing that Gwan Sik had left behind drawers and drawers filled with fairly hairpins for Ae Solar, his most valuable lady. 😭
Additionally, how about that element, that he’d moved all the things within the higher cabinets to decrease ones, in order that Ae Solar wouldn’t have any issue reaching for issues? Augh. Gwan Sik is so considerate and thoughtful. 😭
It’s completely not straightforward on Ae Solar, with Gwan Sik gone, however I’m glad that we get to see her doing nicely, time-skip later, which brings us again to our opening scene in episode 1.
How great, that her poems get printed in their very own quantity; Gwan Sik and Mother can be so proud.
On that be aware, I do love that little element, the place we see that Mother had been reborn, and had been the editor who’d printed Ae Solar’s poems.
How poignant and heartening is it, to see that Mother’s lastly working at a desk job like she’d at all times wished, and that, instinctively, she is moved to tears by Ae Solar’s poetry, and feels a way of delight? 😭😭
And what a beautiful contact, that Ae Solar now lives in the exact same home that had as soon as belonged to Mother, after which belonged to her and Gwan Sik, earlier than they’d offered it to ship Geum Myeong overseas.
How great, that she is now capable of dwell in that home once more, now fantastically redone, and the way necessary, that she has discovered work that feels significant to her, on the nursing house.
I like that we get that closing beat, of Geum Myeong asking her if she’s pleased, and she or he says, in her mild, signature approach, that she’s sooo pleased. 🥹
And maybe most valuable of all, is that closing snippet, the place we get to see a younger Ae Solar and Gwan Sik, collectively in that flowery discipline, taking footage collectively and fortunately rambling about their goals for the long run.
I very a lot love Geum Myeong’s closing voiceover, as we see Ae Solar and Gwan Sik strolling fortunately hand in hand, within the discipline of yellow flowers:
To their seasons, as soon as so younger and nonetheless so tender. With regret, gratitude, and the deepest respect.
Right here’s to all you’ve been by.
What an attractive, becoming approach to honor Ae Solar and Gwan Sik, who lived such easy but extraordinary lives.
Right here’s to all you’ve been by, certainly. 🥹❤️
THE FINAL VERDICT:
Sharply poignant; devastatingly tender; unfailingly heat. Understated, but profoundly affecting.
FINAL GRADE: A++
TRAILER:
MV:
BONUS: IN-CHARACTER INTERVIEW
PATREON UPDATE!
The subsequent drama I’m protecting on Patreon, rather than When Life Offers You Tangerines is Resident Playbook [Korea].
You may take a look at my episode 1-2 notes on Resident Playbook on Patreon right here.
Right here’s an summary of what I’m protecting on Patreon proper now (Tier advantages are cumulative)!
Basis Tier (US$1): Leisure Drop (Sundays) + the primary set notes of all exhibits lined on Patreon (that’s 2 episodes for kdramas and 4 episodes for cdramas)
Early Entry (US$5): +The Haunted Palace [Korea] – beginning quickly!
Early Entry Plus (US$10): +Doubt [Korea] – beginning quickly!
VIP (US$15): +Heavenly Ever After [Korea] – beginning quickly!
VVIP (US$20): +Resident Playbook [Korea]
Final (US$25): +The Greatest Factor [China]
When you’d like to affix me on the journey, you’ll find my Patreon web page right here. You can too learn extra about all of the whats, whys, and hows of serving to this weblog right here. Thanks for all your assist, it actually means rather a lot to me. ❤️
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