The last episode of The Summer I Turned Pretty season 2 came out last Friday, and the show is still stuck in my brain. It’s been a very tumultuous season, and that means we have a lot of unpacking to do. Today I’m not here to talk about whether I’m Team Jeremiah or Team Conrad. That’s a story for a whole other day. Today I want to talk about some of the lessons I’ve learned this season on The Summer I Turned Pretty. If you haven’t watched the show, please be aware that there are spoilers ahead.
1. Let People Grow
Season 2 was characterized by a lot of grief, and dark times, but a character that was a light in all of this was Taylor. In Season 1, Taylor didn’t really stick out too much. She tried to be a good friend to Belly, but at the same time she had trouble sharing the spotlight. There were multiple instances of this. For example, after Belly and Jeremiah pick her up from the bus stop on Belly’s birthday they go and grab ice cream. Taylor asks what the plan is for the night, and Belly tells her that they are having a big lobster dinner at the house. Taylor immediately dismisses the idea. Then, when Belly begins talking about her “big sister”, Nicole, Taylor all of sudden wants to leave even though she was thoroughly enjoying the banana split.
She could only bear the conversation when it was related to her in some way. In season 1, Taylor came across as inconsiderate, and a bit self centered. Belly had her “glow up” that summer, and Taylor had difficulty grasping that. After watching season 1, I felt like Taylor had 2 paths she could take: be a better friend or lose Belly completely. Luckily, when season 2 rolled around, Taylor took the first path, and supported Belly throughout the year. Also, she had a “glow up” herself on the inside and out. Her hair looked stunning, and she was really coming into her own and opening up to people, especially Steven.. Taylor’s character development was so beautiful to watch between the 2 seasons, and conveys how in order for people to grow, you just have to give them the time to grow.
2. Read in Between the Lines
Throughout season 2, Belly kept missing the bigger picture. Growing up, Susannah always told Belly that she was destined for one of her boys: Conrad or Jeremiah. This is really sweet and all, but it also messed with Belly’s brain a little. She only ever envisioned herself having 2 options, and she never allowed herself to explore, and see what’s out there. Her entire childhood she was obsessed with Conrad, and after they broke up she went running to her 2nd option, Jeremiah. Belly should’ve taken some time after Conrad to focus on herself and heal after Susannah’s death.
I really wish Belly had understood that Susannah would’ve loved for Belly to marry one of her sons, but ultimately all she wanted was for Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah to remain close. Belly’s actions in season 2 will encourage you all that you need to read in between the lines, and discover the deeper meaning.
I hope you all enjoyed this week’s post. You can watch the show The Summer I Turned Pretty on Prime Video. I’d love to hear your take on it. You are all lovely, amazing readers, and make sure to subscribe to be notified of new posts. Stay sharp 😉