Why did Nick come out on the day of prom in “Heartstopper?”
Prom: a rite of passage, a celebration of youth, and a night that many remember for the rest of their lives. For Nick from "Heartstopper," Prom day was not just about corsages, dancing, and memories. It was the day he chose to come out on Instagram. But why this day, of all days?
In a straightforward sense, Prom represents a culmination of high school experiences, a night where everyone is on display, and memories are solidified. By choosing this day, Nick was making a statement: he was ready to be his authentic self in the most public and memorable way possible. It was a declaration that he was no longer willing to hide or suppress his feelings, especially about Charlie. The act was brave, bold, and symbolic of a new chapter in his life.
Now, let's take an unexpected detour. Imagine, for a moment, the iconic scene from "The Wizard of Oz" where Dorothy steps out of her black-and-white world into the technicolor land of Oz. This transition from the mundane to the magical, from the suppressed to the expressive, offers a fascinating parallel to Nick's decision.
In "The Wizard of Oz," Dorothy's journey from Kansas to Oz is not just a physical one but also a journey of self-discovery. The grayscale Kansas represents a world of limitations, societal expectations, and a certain monotony. On the other hand, Oz, with its vibrant colors and diverse characters, symbolizes a world of possibilities, self-expression, and acceptance. By stepping into Oz, Dorothy was not just entering a new world; she was also embracing a new version of herself.
Similarly, Nick's decision to come out on Prom day can be seen as his own 'stepping into Oz.' By publicly acknowledging his relationship with Charlie, he was moving from the grayscale world of hiding and suppression to the technicolor world of authenticity and acceptance. Just as Dorothy had to face challenges in Oz, Nick too would face challenges in his journey. But both characters, in their respective stories, chose to embrace their true selves despite the potential obstacles.
However, there are contrasts as well. While Dorothy's journey in Oz was about finding her way back home, Nick's journey was about moving forward, embracing the future with Charlie and leaving behind the shadows of secrecy. Dorothy's technicolor world was a temporary escape, while Nick's decision represented a permanent change in his life.
In conclusion, Nick's choice to come out on Instagram on Prom day is a powerful statement of self-acceptance and courage. Drawing a parallel with "The Wizard of Oz" adds a layer of depth to his decision, reminding us that the journey to self-acceptance, whether in a fictional land of Oz or a high school prom, is filled with challenges, but it's a journey worth taking.
