i just want to point what i think the author is showing in this chapter. yes it’s set in america, so in theory it should be accepted or significantly *more* normalised, but that isn’t always how it plays out in real life. legal acceptance does not mean social acceptance, even if it’s a blue state. the author included the scene with luke’s old classmate on purpose, including the pressure to get back together with his ex. it shows prejudice still may exist in their state, and that what is expected of him, is to date a woman. even an unhealthy and toxic relationship is more socially accepted than his current relationship.
at the end of the day their relationship is in a fragile phase. the author shows what being in a gay relationship is like after living your whole life thinking you’re straight. luke talks about having to relearn how to act in public, and how it’s difficult to not be able to be openly affectionate with your partner, because it goes against everything from his previous relationship. that it’s almost like being in a relationship for the first time. considering they just mutually confirmed their feelings, facing prejudice could hurt them. you never truly know what reaction you will get and it’s best to play it safe and be careful in public because it could ruin their relationship
i just want to point what i think the author is showing in this chapter. yes it’s set in america, so in theory it should be accepted or significantly *more* normalised, but that isn’t always how it plays out in real life. legal acceptance does not mean social acceptance, even if it’s a blue state. the author included the scene with luke’s old classmate on purpose, including the pressure to get back together with his ex. it shows prejudice still may exist in their state, and that what is expected of him, is to date a woman. even an unhealthy and toxic relationship is more socially accepted than his current relationship.
at the end of the day their relationship is in a fragile phase. the author shows what being in a gay relationship is like after living your whole life thinking you’re straight. luke talks about having to relearn how to act in public, and how it’s difficult to not be able to be openly affectionate with your partner, because it goes against everything from his previous relationship. that it’s almost like being in a relationship for the first time. considering they just mutually confirmed their feelings, facing prejudice could hurt them. you never truly know what reaction you will get and it’s best to play it safe and be careful in public because it could ruin their relationship