Social gatherings tend to make this self-proclaimed wallflower wilt. I shy away like Anthony Bridgerton does around bees. I never attended dances in middle or high school – not even my senior prom. I told myself that the reason stemmed from a desire to go on a trip with my closest friends instead, but I actually believe my decision was one based on insecurity and fear.
While I’m not quite a social butterfly, I have fluttered my wings occasionally in the last decade or so, and yet I prefer the comfort of my cocoon. I can’t be disappointed if I never put myself in a social position. I can’t feel invisible, insecure, or inept if I stay out of the crowd. However, my excitement over the upcoming season of Netflix’s Bridgerton inspired me to break out of my cocoon.
A Stroll Through New York
May 11th, 2024 I fluttered my wings, dressed up all cute like, and boarded a train to New York City so that I could be part of the Bridgerton Promenade experience. I arrived unfashionably late and waited along the winding line until the “open market” came into view. From there I entered another line where I could observe the event from the sidelines and inched through for an additional three hours. I walked through the trellised entryway with one hour to spare. By then, I’d lost some of my excitement and didn’t really engage much with the event. It had become much too crowded for my liking, some of the stations were closed, and I felt overwhelmed. I could feel my wings close in around me, a desire to find my cocoon or the nearest wall to absorb into. I picked up some macarons, a #POLIN bracelet, and swag bag full of delightful goodies then strolled out of the promenade.
The overwhelming response to the event meant an outrageously long wait in line but it also reaffirmed why I champion this series: it connects with people from all walks of life and the diversity in the crowd of fans made that clear. I smiled broadly as so many attendees dressed in their fashionable attire – regency style on display! So many of these fans were individuals of color or those others would deem as “wallflowers”, who saw themselves represented and valued within the Bridgerton realm. I find immense joy in knowing that my fellow Bridgerton viewers got to break out of their own cocoons and spread their gorgeous wings.
Two Authors
I will binge watch all four episodes of season 3, part 1 the day of its release – which will likely be the first of many viewings. Why am I a “ton” excited for this season in particular? Enough to wait in a line longer than I ever have in an amusement park? Mainly because I see myself reflected in Penelope’s (portrayed by the exquisite Nicola Coughlan) journey. Yes, yes, sure I’ve had crushes that I wished would have been reciprocated, but that’s not why I connect with this character more than the others. Penelope Featherington observes from the sidelines – unsure, awkward, and invisible. I know what that feels like. While I’ve never penned (pun intended) a gossip column in response, I am a writer who uses words as both art and therapy in dealing with depression as well as a body scarred from open-heart surgery.
I know what it’s like to be part of society while also critical of its flaws. Penelope’s often underestimated by those closest to her, and by society, and I can’t wait to see her step into her confidence and sparkle. I fully intend on spreading my wings more and writing about it afterwards. This author will celebrate the story of a fictional one with anticipation and admiration until we both step away from the wall and bloom.
*DISCLAIMER: No endorsement by Netflix, Shondaland, CVS Productions, or anyone associated with Bridgerton is implied!*
An Entertaining Idea 