10 Comments
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Efrem Seeger's avatar

Loved your commentary and all three shows. I am constantly aware (too aware) of people standing in the way of their own joy (me included). I have two kids whose brains are wired differently, so I get that people often (maybe always) come to their blindspots honestly. I try to notice my blindspots and then make choices that allow for a new way forward. Nothing changes if nothing changes. Essays like this one invite us to look at what we might want to focus on in ourselves. Thank you :)

John Copenhaver's avatar

That's so true. We always have to be interrogating our blind spots. I think it's an ongoing process, and I think it can be exciting, not necessarily frightening. Thanks so much for reading, Efrem.

Summer of Men's avatar

I loved this essay too Efrem. Thank you for writing and sharing it John!

John Copenhaver's avatar

Thanks for reading!

Lee Sterling's avatar

A timely essay: now I feel as if I need to watch these shows, especially since I had no knowledge of them before reading your Substack. Thank you for publicly examining this issue of masculine vulnerability and the (my evaluation) epidemic of loneliness. While it isn't limited to men, this loneliness has shifted men's roles in America, and it's a change still in progress. I suspect we'll have to solve this question soon if we are to avoid losing our country to a rabid patriarchy.

John Copenhaver's avatar

I agree, Lee. Think we need to solve it soon. Very soon. Thanks for your comment!

Susan Nolen's avatar

Thanks, John. Thoughtful and heartful both.

John Copenhaver's avatar

You’re so welcome!

Alma Katsu's avatar

Great commentary, particularly on those three shows. I realize now that I need to watch Half Man and DTF.

John Copenhaver's avatar

Thanks, Alma. I really thought all these shows were fascinating. Personally, I connected with Boots for obvious reasons, but DTF was the most striking emotionally. Half Man is INTENSE and a bit unpleasant, but fascinating.