What I’m Watching: Dickinson

Dickinson: Season 2, Episode 4 “This is my letter to the World” (B+)

It’s such a rarity to see Emily happy, and to have an episode end with her smiling and dancing. The casting of Billy Eichner as Walt Whitman was fun, especially since I just finished watching him as Matt Drudge on “American Crime Story: Impeachment.” The way he kept rattling off enthusiastic words was a lot, but that just meant it was perfect casting. He was exactly the right person to get Emily to feel comfortable enough to admit to someone that she cared about Sue, aided by him bringing her to a place with plenty of same-sex couples and everyone being open about who they really are. I’m not sure this serenity will last, especially considering that Sue may not share her new outlook on life. It was great to see Zosia Mamet as Louisa May Alcott again, another example of how one of Emily’s heroes isn’t what she thought. Austin seems to be want to be a father to his son in a way that Sue doesn’t want, and his attempts at participation are going to only further drive a wedge between him and Sue. Maggie massaging Edward and Mrs. Dickinson after they were frantically itching gave her an opportunity to have a bit of fun at their expense, mentioning elves at a time when they were definitely susceptible to absurd stories. Henry’s wartime experience isn’t what he had expected, and I like that this show is putting its own spin on systemic racism and performative action in a time long ago.