Remedy to a Writer’s Heartbreak

Sex Education & The Bold Type, two shows that softened the blow.

Words by Robyn Goodare

When I’m sad, I watch TV. I can sit, breathe in another world, and imagine myself in it. My recent breakup happened to coincide with the release of Sex Education’s third season. A show that, I would argue, is one of the most exciting of our generation. Forward-thinking and progressive, it normalises the exploration of sexuality and celebrates its diversity. The series explores the pure but volatile hearts of teenagers trying to understand their desires. The many characters, and their sex stories, teach why exploration - combined with understanding - is key to feeling comfortable and safe within our own sexualities. For me, it served as a healthy reminder that there is more to sex and relationships than my own experiences, and even more that I wasn’t aware of.

Coming out of a healthy relationship with a man, I found myself wondering where I would turn next. Sex Education reminded me about the parts of my own sexuality that I had questioned but hadn’t allowed myself to explore. It reminded me that sexuality is fluid, and writing this helped me dare to go on my first ever date with a girl! I am now so excited about all the possibilities ahead of me and the new things I will learn about myself in the process. I also discovered The Bold Type as my breakup happened. A series that follows three women in their twenties, working hard and achieving their career goals. What’s not to like? While their love lives are part of the story, we see three women who work for a women’s magazine, push past societal expectations, and show that they don’t require male validation to feel whole. In a world dominated by masculinity, this is one of the most important messages that TV can show. Main characters, and best friends; Jane, Sutton, and Kat support and encourage each other to be their best selves.

Jane teaches us to be honest as she learns more about herself through her writing. Watching her push herself reminded me how much I also love writing. I used it to understand my feelings and realised I was excited about my next chapter. I loved how Sutton holds onto her independence while being in a relationship, and how her self-confidence becomes the key to her career progression. Kat’s example of standing up for what she believes in, keeping an open mind about who she is, and recognising that there are

parts of herself still to discover, moved me especially. Seeing Kat explore her sexuality and learn more about who she is, reminded me that I have so much more to explore too. So, here is my remedy to heartbreak; Remember that when one door closes, all the others open. Watch a show that has inspirational characters like these. Any time that you find yourself Remember stuck in your own thoughts, this writer recommends a good binge, something that when that will inspire you to try something new. You are more than what you have one door been so far, and you have the rest of your life to explore and build yourself closes, all the into anyone that you want to be.

others open.

Young Royals for Young People

Words by Louise Allen

In an industry where it’s the bog-standard for flawless, fully-formed adults to portray adolescence, I salute Netflix’s Young Royals for casting real teenagers – skin texture and all – to play teenagers.

Pimply, flat-chested, imperfect fourteen-year-old me needed Young Royals. Such authenticity may have seen me spending my lunch money on lunch rather than Dream Matte Mousse and Primark push-up bras.

I’m stronger than that now, but I’m full of promise for young girls of today. The likes of Young Royals may make it less of a challenge for them to blossom into the strong women of their tomorrows.

Vegan Hot Chocolate Blended and packed in Glasgow

current affairs.