I Don't Have The Right To Say That "13 Reasons Why" Is Problematic
Start writing a post
Entertainment

I Don't Have The Right To Say That "13 Reasons Why" Is Problematic

I am not a victim, so why would I have a say?

365
I Don't Have The Right To Say That "13 Reasons Why" Is Problematic
Unsplash

Netflix released its second season of "Thirteen Reasons Why" on May 18, and conversations have erupted in just about every friend group. I’ve seen controversy explode online, and I’ve also discussed it with my own friends. It’s important to note that I haven’t begun this season for personal reasons, but I have looked into analyses of the new season.

I enjoyed the show's first season. Some argue that it glorified suicide in an inappropriate and graphic manner. However, I disagree. I think the first season was realistic, unflinching and honest. It is Hollywood, so it’s no surprise that dramatic elements were added to the plot to enhance the narrative. I also read the novel by Jay Asher when I was in middle school, so that is another reason why I was inclined to watch.

I’m not watching the second season because I was satisfied with the first season’s end. I don’t care enough to find out the fate of the rest of the cast, because I think that the show made its point in the first season. There also wasn’t a second book, so it also lost that appeal. It also doesn’t help that Rotten Tomatoes gave the season a 28 percent compared to an 80 percent on the first season.

I would suggest to others not to watch the second season out of issues with the fading plot and dramatic potential. But I wouldn’t advise against the show due to the issues covered. It discusses heavy topics that aren’t usually featured in serial programming intended for teens. Some of these themes are rape, suicide and substance abuse.

I’m not in the place to comment if the depiction of these things is problematic because I am not a victim myself. It’s good that a conversation is forming and people are speaking up, but I think it is important to realize these pressing and traumatic things do happen. If you are not personally affected, it doesn’t make sense to urge the cancelation or censoring of the show.

The scene I am directly referring to out of the second season takes place in the last episode. One of the male characters is raped in a bathroom, and some are asking that it be removed from Netflix. I can’t comment on whether it should or shouldn’t be taken down. What I can say, however, is that it isn’t my place to decide. The cast provides a disclaimer in the beginning of the show. I know that doesn’t speak volumes, but it’s enough of a warning that graphic situations will occur.

“These are things that are happening to teenagers every day around the world and certainly across America,” said Brian Yorkey, the creator of the series.

I will not be commenting if the show should or shouldn’t be cancelled. But I will be upfront in stating that I can’t directly relate to the issues discussed. If I feel uncomfortable during a scene, it was my responsibility to prepare myself to feel that way. I think that telling raw and honest stories that address relevant issues through television is a great foundation to get a conversation started.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

107397
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments