Smallville is a TV show based on one of the most popular superhero of all times – Superman. It premiered in the United States in early 2001. Season 7 has just ended. This series is focused on the adolescent days of Clark Kent; about what he went through as a teenager as well as those people around him. It also includes the difficulties that Clark always had to face. This included making a choice between his love life and his “destiny”. Avid followers of the Superman comic series will know that Lana Lang was Clark’s childhood sweetheart. Why didn’t they stay together then?
When I first learned Knapp’s model of relational development, the first couple whom I related to was Clark and Lana. The relationship between the both of them actually developed over the course of a few seasons. I will explain them stage by stage.
Stage 1 (Initiating) : This is not shown in the TV series. This is where both Clark and Lana just got to know each other. Both of them, Clark in particular, try to create a favourable initial impression towards each other. In addition, they try to look for ways to open communication channels. Conversation topics are relatively shallow.
Step 2 (Experimenting) : This is where both parties get to know each other more. As evident in Season 1, Clark and Lana get to know each other more. The relationship between them at this stage is generally relaxed, non committal and somewhat ambiguous.
Step 3 (Intensifying) : Throughout the rest of Season 1 up till the start of Season 5, both parties are at this stage. This is due to the fact that Lana does not know about Clark’s secret. She knows that Clark is keeping something from her and is unwilling to commit till Clark shares his secret with her. On the other hand, Clark does not want to tell Lana about his powers as he is scared of losing her if she knows the truth about him. Clark has ever contemplated telling Lana the truth in order to be with her. Though they are not officially a couple yet, they still remain as very good friends and even share special moments together. Their actions and thoughts seem to complement each other.
Step 4 (Intergrating) : At the start of Season 5, Clark is given the chance to become a mortal. He accepts it reluctantly, knowing that at the expense of saving the world, he can be with Lana. At this point, they become a couple both in their own and in others’ eyes. They both share intimate moments together.
Step 5 (Bonding) : None in the context.
Step 6 (Differentiating) : This is where Clark and Lana start to notice previously overlooked differences between the both of them. This is made worst when Clark is given back his powers in Episode #5-3.
Step 7 (Circumscribing) : Differentiating leads to circumscribing. This is a point in which certain topics are placed off limits. Both parties are unwilling to talk about it. In this case, Clark is unwilling to reveal his powers to Lana. Commitment level decreases and tension level between them increase, as evident in Episode #5-10, where both parties have a talk about their relationship.
Step 8 (Stagnating) : As the series goes on, Clark and Lana start to hang out with each other less. Even when they do talk to each other, situation is often akward.
Stage 9 (Avoiding) : Both Clark and Lana separate themselves emotionally from each other. They feel they having nothing more to offer each other.
Stage 10 (Terminating) : Both parties decide to terminate their relationship with each other. Lana feels they do not belong together, while Clark decides that it is better for him to be alone. This is the time where the both of them come to terms with that fact that the relationship did not work out.
Well, have you guys experienced these 10 stages before? I’m sure you have. Share your experiences! Let me start the ball rolling – NO =D
8 comments:
hmm.. i think i've gone thru stage 9 (avoid) i avoid doing homework in jc and sai kang in army
I've yet to experience any =/
Too innocent ;x
why so detailed? Chasing, together, break =X thats all =P
I don't think everyone will go through all the stages, simply because in the hectic lives of ours, we may not have time to indulge in the processes of the different stages.
smallville--a show that i had always wanted to watch but didnt have time to. Hmm, no doubt we would have gone through some of these stages of coming together and falling apart over the past few years of our lives. I, definately had.
These stages are normal in real life, not only in the show " smallville". Everyone come together and fall apart eventually. It's unescapable.
though i didn't watch smallville and i've yet to be in a relationship, but i understand that communication between a couple or soon-to-be couple is very important,especially during stages 3-5. If there's any miscommunication or total communication breakdown, it may lead to stages 6 and eventually, the relationship will worsen and may come to a point of no return.
Great analysis! =)
wow just thinking back about how 'into' smallvile you got..now I see. Such a detailed report on them. oh Guess stage 2 is like courtship.. which is always sweet..then it comes to stage 9 the avoiding stage. Still think that no matter how ugly a relationship turns, its better not to go to the avoiding stage..can still be friends what..
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