Thank you to this entire fandom for all the love and support in the comments. Due to the nature of this video, I'm sadly going to have pin this little note. Almost everyone here has been positive and respectful. Thank you all for that! We can all have different views, and I am happy to see people respect that. But bigoted comments will NOT be tolerated on this channel. I do check my comments at least once a day, and any comments that are bigoted or disrespectful to other people simply for being who they are will be removed. To everyone else (the VAST majority of you), thank you! Edited to add that I say in this video that they first met as Demon and Angel on the wall, which is true; Neil confirmed it is their first meeting as Angel and Demon. It's an important point. Please don't be the 75th person to incorrectly try and correct this. Thanks!
Absolutely true! I was initially hesitant to even make this video, because on the one hand, the answer is so obvious. But I really wanted to explore the wonderful storytelling set up and payoff this show has delivered, as well as deeper character motivations. I'm fascinated by both of their personalities, and love finding all the little hidden details we've been given :)
The thing about Aziraphale's "I forgive you" is that it's also a short-hand way of saying something. In the first season, as well as here, I think it means, "You've said or done something which is hurtful to me, but I still care about you, anyway." If Aziraphale had any ideal scenario in mind where he and Crowley would end up kissing, it would be in a happy moment, very stereotypically romantic, more like during the Shopkeepers Association meeting/dance before it got so rudely interrupted. This kiss was not just a kiss, it was an attempt to get Aziraphale to do something, even though it was also an expression of Crowley's feelings. While Aziraphale is intelligent enough to understand that both of these things can be true, it's hurtful that a kiss would be used to manipulate him, in a way, as it could make him feel like his feelings for Crowley are made a mockery of. He's not been stingy about showing Crowley how he feels this second season, after all. Personally, I think that is part of why he says "I forgive you" - to him, it signals that he loves Crowley, despite being deeply hurt. Like his own misunderstanding about Crowley's bookshop comment, Crowley misunderstands Aziraphale's meaning behind his forgiveness.
Absolutely. I forgive you is not meant to be hurtful at all. And I agree with your interpretation of why he says it, as well. There's so many details, if I tried to cover the meaning of everything in one video, it would be 3 hours long, lol. I think the I forgive you deserves it's own entire breakdown. Much like "It's always too late". There's so much there!
I actually disagree with you on why Aziraphale says "I forgive you" in season 1 (though I do feel the sentiment is similar). We had just had a scene where Crowley said he was unforgivable and that is the whole point of him being a demon. And so I see Aziraphale saying "I forgive you" because God will not and that Aziraphale doesn't see what Crowley did as being unforgivable, so he will even if God will not. And actually after the opening of Season 2 this belief in why Aziraphale says "I forgive you" is cemented. So I do agree with you that it is a way for Aziraphale to say I care about you, and also a way to say I love you without saying I love you. I do feel the Season 2 "I forgive you." is more of a legitimate 'I forgive you' in that even Aziraphale could tell in the moment that Crowley was manipulating him and that he was forgiving him for doing it.
Absolutely, the "I forgive you" needs a whole breakdown itself. In a writing context, the way it mirrors "hate the sin, love the sinner" holier-than-thou attitude is heartbreaking on it's own. I do believe it was meant as "I love you", but absolutely the most wrong thing to say at the time. Exquisite writing, exquisite agony. 😅😭
YES, EXACTLY!! I love this. This is so true, Crowley totally misunderstands the meaning of the "I forgive you" and of course the fact of him responding in a negative way hurts Aziraphale even more than what he already was. I mean, they weren't understanding each other's point, they need to be honest with each other and they need to really have a time to talk to each other and understand each other's point. I love them very much, but Nina and Maggie are right!! They aren't good at communicating. They have been feeling all this love for so many years, yet nothing has ever happened or change between them bc they don't talk about it. I mean, Crowley didn't even seem to know his true feelings until Nina brought the topic out, and that's one more signal of this miscommunication between them.
I think something that needs to be explored is the thought of how Crowley sees his fall from heaven - 'I forgive you' and the offer to be an angel again could be seen as the ultimate betrayal to someone who, arguably shouldn't have even fallen. Aziraphale has outright disobeyed heaven several times and suffered no punishment (although they wanted to obliviate him, but didn't really check that they were successful), and it could be argued that what he has done warrants a fall. But it is Crowley who fell, mostly just for asking questions, and being with the wrong people at the wrong time. He's been feeling that injustice for 6000 years, and then he's offered a chance to come back? Like nothing ever happened? Does that mean his original 'sin' was arbitrarily judged? Seems so! And Aziraphale still judges him for what he is, which is infinitely sad, as Crowley is the far more just and righteous of the two of them. Aziraphale is correct in always calling Crowley nice - it's just true, and I think Crowley is intelligent enough to recognize his own qualities even if he doesn't want to hear about them out loud. And so every day is The Fall all over again for him. And thus Aziraphale wanting him to be an angel again is the ultimate betrayal of the pureness of what Crowley has become on his own - not perfect, but certainly as far from evil as you can get, capable of deep love and kindness. It hurts to even think about it - that poor demon has fought so hard to be better than either side, but it's never good enough, and it never will be. And that's why he kissed Aziraphale- he was trying to show him everything about who he's become over the millenia and show him what is possible. It's desperate because he knows it probably won't work, but he has to try no matter how hard it is, because that's the purity of who he is. The saddest part is that Aziraphale both understands and doesn't (or won't) in that same moment. I'm dying, I died, I am dead over this scene😭😭😭
Oh gosh, this has DEVASTATED me. Crowley has always offered material things to Aziraphale as a means to show he loves him, but also be closer to him. "Let me get you lunch! (and I will also be there)", "Do you need a lift? (and we will be in the same space for a little bit)". So if the kiss is meant to fit into Crowley's pattern of gift giving, then it is the first time there that there's no pretense on what he's really offering. In the end there was nothing more he wanted to give to Aziraphale, nothing more he _could_ give, than himself.
Can I summarize it this way? Crowley always wanted to give himself to Aziraphale but during kiss there’s no pretense. So Crowley genuinely wanted to kiss Aziraphale and this was not just a manipulation and a physical way to convince Aziraphale to stay with him? I know he wanted to convince him but after I watched this video I panicked that this is was merely a manipulation that Crowley learned over the years.
I saw somewhere that Aziraphale like likes the more cluttered, cozy feel of the bookshop because of the emptiness of heaven, and Crowley prefers the minimalistic style of his flat because of how cluttered and crowded hell is. I think this could also play a part in their love languages. Aziraphale like gifts and material things because he didn’t have those things in heaven, and Crowley appreciates trust and words of validation because of the lack of trust that there is between demons in hell.
In regards to the scene where Crowley saves the books, I would say that Azariphale has been in love with Crowley for hundreds or even thousands of years but was in denial about it. This was just the first time that he realizes it, even if he cannot fully mentally or verbally acknowledge it.
I thought it also might be the point where Aziraphale realizes Crowley cares for him, too. Sure, Crowley likes to rescue Aziraphale, but that could just be a quirk of Crowley's or a way to keep Aziraphale around in case Crowley needs angelic help. Saving something that Aziraphale treasures shows Aziraphale that Crowley cares about how Aziraphale feels. Which I think helps Aziraphale realize he loves Crowley.
@@Sendaryaagreed with everyone here. I think Aziraphale and Crowley both develop early crushes/fixations on one another and ultimately fall in love MILLENNIA before they realize (or are able to admit to themselves and adjust to the fact) that they’re in love with one another romantically. I’m on board with Sheen for seeing the 1941 “saving of the books” as the moment Aziraphale is thunderstruck by the true depth of his feeling for Crowley, combined with (as the other person mentioned) his realization that Crowley has been showing him love for some time as well, that he does and will think of Aziraphale and his feelings and what will make him happy, and do whatever he can for Aziraphale always.
Remember, too, that Azariphale still stubbornly believes in the ineffible plan, where angels are above human feeling and Crowley is on the wrong side. Azariphale still thinks he fits into the plan, and he sees a way to save Crowley. He's devastated that Crowley won't cooperate, but Crowley knows they would lose everything to go back and fit in. I felt a side-bar sentiment behind that would be similar to knowing you're gay, but staying in the closet because "it's not the done thing" (much more common in my era where it was so stigmatized). It wasn't blatantly so, but it felt similar.
I suppose the way Aziraphale sees it, both instances were temptations. 1) temptation to eat, connected to the sin of gluttony. 2) temptation of the pleasures of the flesh. Normally he doesn't mind Crowley tempting him because his temptations aren't malicious, they're actually fun. But the kiss, that was crossing the line for Aziraphale. Especially because he has feelings for Crowley, no matter whether he's aware of their full extent of not, and it seems to him that with that kiss Crowley just tried to use Aziraphale's feelings to manipulate him. Of course he immediately forgave him, but he feels hurt nevertheless. For Crowley the kiss was what he felt was his last resort to make Aziraphale see reason, make him understand. And a kiss always works in movies, right? The couple argues, they're unable to communicate properly, but then they kiss and - vavoom, sorted! Instant happy ending! Credits roll. Crowley tried to replicate it, the poor thing.
A very valid interpretation of this "I forgive you". Something I also intend to cover more fully, eventually! I didn't really get to address Azi's feeling here, mostly focusing on why Crowley did what he did. There is so much nuance and detail in this show!
Y sabes lo interesante de tu comentario? Que Crowley ama las películas, hace referencias a ellas, pero el sr Fell no tiene intención de dejar de ser un ángel, porque no sabe ser algo más, cuando creyó que era un demonio lloró desconsolado y su amigo le mostró una realidad diferente, Az perdona siempre perdona y espera que Crowley regrese al cielo porque ese tipo de amor puro es el que quiere que sea eterno😊
I totally missed how Crowley suggests abandoning the bookshop and then bargains with it 2 seconds later. That’s some great spot-on analysis on the specifics of Crowley’s behavior-thanks for pointing it out!
I also hadn’t noticed this, it’s really a great observation! It really shows Crowley’s desperation, trying everything he can think so get Aziraphale to stay - it makes the scene so much sadder (which I did not know was possible)
I think Aziraphale almost said I love you because he feels it. Not because it is expected. I think that is why we got the Gabriel saying I love you to Aziraphale sceen. He didn't respond back to him with an "I love you" because he doesn't feel that for Gabriel.
I couldn't agree more! :) I also think that is the point of the lip reading bit during the bullet catch. So the audience knows there are a few times we need to really pay attention to things barely said.
@@Sendarya Oooh. I REALLY like that analysis of the lip reading scene. Teaching the audience what to pay attention to / how to read the book. I also like it as sort of an easy parallel to the "demons at the threshold" scene.
I also think that part of the reason why Crowley kissed Azariphale was because Crowley had just realized that he was in love with him a few hours ago and, unlike Azirpahale whom has had... what, over 100 years to process that fact that he is in love with his demon and make the (poorly executed) decision to act on those feelings, he hasn’t had time to process it, all these huge feelings. Then Azariphale was wanting to leave and the kiss was Crowley acting upon this feeling of “I just realized that I’m completely head over heels for you and now you’re leaving you can’t leave I don’t even know what these feelings are or what they mean but you need to stay”. Lack of time and communication was the biggest two factors in this, in the ending of S2. I hope that in S3 they take breaks from Action Plot and have Character/ Relationship Development Plot and Healthy Communication Plot, otherwise the last installment will be a major let down for me.
Completely agree that Crowley was just now trying to contextualize the notion of love into his feelings. I also hope we get plenty of quiet moments for character and relationship development in s3!
Man that’s actually a concern that I have for season 3 because a LOT needs to be dealt with in terms of Aziraphale’s and Crowley’s characterization and relationship dynamic, AND simultaneously drive the Second Coming plot forward. Specially since Neil has said that S3 won’t be as ‘gentle and romantic’ as this season, I’m genuinely scared about how they’re going to wrap this up is only six episodes (unless there’s more🤞) in a way that their relationship and characterization doesn’t get outweighed by plot.
@@Itssymbolicjohnyes, same! I'm honestly not as hopeful as most fans that we'll get our sweet happy ending with Aziraphale and Crowley together and in love in their little cottage in South Downs. I mean, if S3 is going to be louder and more chaotic, it just doesn't leave much room for anything sweet and comforting and romantic. Like, personally, the "soft romantic" tone of S2 wasn't technically referring to Aziraphale and Crowley, but Gabriel and Belazabub, so I kind of feel like we're owed one hell of a make-up reunion and a sweet soft epilogue in the end, but I'm not getting my hopes up 😢.
@@beezer81 I feel you! Personally I trust that we’ll get a happy ending; i just hope that the journey from where we left off at S2 to the South Downs is done properly :’(
@@Itssymbolicjohn I hear you! I mean, Neil did say that everything would be OK, so I technically trust him to do Aziraphale & Crowley justice, and if he doesn't, you know one Michael Christopher Sheen would revolt, hahaha! I also hope that the journey from S2 ending to S3 ending is done properly too - my worst fear is that we'll barely get Aziraphale & Crowley in any scenes together in present time...yeah, a few flashbacks during those History scenes, but I'm worried they'll be apart until the last episode, which TBH would be AWFUL. I mean, I adore the History scenes, but I want present day Aziraphale & Crowley to make-up and actually have togetherness amidst the chaos of stopping The Second Coming. So, that's why I'm worried, lol.
I think of the kiss as a reminder of something human. Angels and Demons don't kiss, but humans do. The whole point of them stopping Armageddan was so they could continue to enjoy the earthly human delights like wine, food, and bookshops. Like you mentioned in the video, it worked before for Crowley.
I love the comparison of the two scenes, never thought of it! he just always so desperately wants Aziraphale with him, that's why he also always saves him. hes very lonely always has been, and Aziraphale is the only one he really bonded ever so he would never let him go 🥺
@@Sendarya@lakshmicp2150 Also, the way Aziraphale's first reaction to Metatron was "but I don't want to go to heaven." Then he realized real quick he needed a reason (that wasn't Crowley) so he says, "where would I get my coffee?" Umm. You don't drink coffee, Aziraphale. You're not fooling anyone and then, of course, Metatron uses his love for Crowley against him. 😢😡
It really is so very heartbreaking. The timing could hardly have been worse, but such are acts of desperation :( I'm glad you enjoyed the analysis, though.
Ooooooofttt I'd never seen a still of the instant before the kiss at 10:17 and just wow, the pain on their faces is devastating. Thank you for drawing my attention to this and making the scene even more heartbreaking. Another wonderful analysis too, thank you for these videos, they are fabulous!
When I started doing this, I thought for sure watching these scenes over and over to get clips would make me more numb to it. Nope. Editing this together and finding these stills is an emotional journey every time. That still shot breaks my heart! Thank you for your kind words, And I'm so glad you're enjoying the videos!
@@Sendaryamy experience too. There's so much detail, so many layers, and David and Michael are so incredibly attuned to their characters, that every damn time I go over it, I find something new to break my heart
What I would love from season 3 would be for them to gain other support systems other than each other, Nina, Maggie, heaven and hell. They need healthy relationships outside of each other to be in a healthy place with each other and themselves. The idea of only having each other is conceptually romantic, but it’s also unhealthy and dangerous, which is what makes it so popular; the excitement. But in a healthy relationship with communication, boundaries, a sense of self love and understanding, that’s when love and affection become so much stronger and deeper.
Maybe Ineffable Bureaucracy could play such a role eventually, they did make Jimbriel rather sweet and likeable after all, so Gabriel miiight have retained some of those qualities. And ofc there is Muriel
I see hints of 'found family' friendship potential with Jim/Gabriel & Beezlebub, Maggie & Nina, and of course Muriel. Suspect these will continue in s3. In fact, if heaven & hell vs humanity turns out to be the "Big One" as Crowley hinted at the end of s1, we might see more connections form from BOTH sides.
I think I’m probably the only person who would actually just love fewer side characters and plots with them and just more pure Aziraphale/Crowley time. I love a good ensemble cast, but I feel like Good Omens is more their story than ensemble. Of course hoping for plenty of Muriel, but given that British seasons are 6 episodes only, I compare that to ensemble shows I’ve loved, you end up with HOURS more content of each of your favorite characters. I’m not only terrified we may never get a season 3, but I know if we do I’ll be dreading any time that’s wasted not on the two most compelling and delightful characters I’ve seen on screen in FOREVER, bc that’s only 6 hours guaranteed left, there won’t probably be a season 4, and half the show not including them at all will kill me lol. But I’m obsessed with them so there’s that.
@@JoaMaj idk, I don’t forgive Gabriel. They kinda shoehorned that romance in there, we’re supposed to care bc these two have had like 5 dates, when our boys have been basically dating for millennia, and now that Gabriel has found love, we’re supposed to forget and forgive that he’s been a murderous sadistic tyrant imbecile for his whole existence. I think I’ll barf if they make him everyone’s friend in the next season.
I think Crowley, yes, finds it extremely hard--alllllmost impossible--to talk about his emotions, probably because he hasn't HAD to name and reflect on them (the only person who showed care for him or how he is is Az, but they don't talk about feelings, which is part of the problem!) Notice in that final scene he never actually says "I love you" or finishes the sentence "I would like to spend..." He resorts to denigrating heaven--"it's toxic!"--which doesn't help his case w/ Az. I think with his new realization of his love and maybe passion for Az, he wanted to kiss him, AND I think it was shorthand to show his love when words didn't work.
Interesting! I think they never ever actually told each other how they felt. And I don't mean "I love you", I mean "I like you" or "I enjoy spending time with you", "I miss you", "I am glad to see you" etc. Aziraphale doesn'r either. In the final scene he tells Crowley only "I need you". The subtext is always there, obviously, but they never IN TEXT say how they feel, during the entire show. I would have to do a complete rewatch to be sure, but ... The unfinished "I would like to spend" is the closest we get, I think.
Crowley gives Aziraphale food because Crowley gets pleasure from watching Aziraphale eat. It was even said in the lockdown mini episode on TH-cam. "I'll come over and watch you eat." This makes sense to me because I love watching the people I care for eat, especially if I prepared the food. There are many scenes in both seasons where Crowley quite unabashedly watches Aziraphale eat. Honestly it's been lovely for me to see on the screen someone who feels love the way I do.
Indeed he does! The lockdown special is adorable "I could sliver over and watch you eat cake" is exactly how I imagine them spending time together, lol.
I found the fact Crowley offered an Ox rib as Aziraphale's first taste of food questionable because he could have offered bread or anythin else, but he offered 'flesh' (and a huge bit as well). Watching an angel eating flesh and then liking it showed how far Aziraphale could be tempted away from the divine. Also, the fact it was a 'rib' made me think of lifelong companionship as supposedly God made Eve from the rib of Adam to be his companion. Overall, that scene could be predicting that they both could become lifelong sexual partners as Aziraphale could be tempted to cross that line by Crowley. I also felt that Crowley wasn't conscious that he actually loved Aziraphale that way, I think he did love him but hadn't realised in what context until he helped the two ladies but I think the particular moment was when Gabriel and Beelzebub declared their love for each other and left. It was like getting the permission they needed.
Yes. When he says "if Gabriel and Beelzebub can do it" I was like REPRESENTATION MATTERS because he finally did have an example and thought, oh hey this could work.
I've also been thinking about how the parallels of the ox rib and kiss scene are intentional, both were instances of temptation and persuasion that Aziraphale initially felt conflicted about that ended up becoming something he holds dear to him
What good timing, I was just perusing your other theory videos. For me, the cellar scene is more about Crowley’s loneliness. He and Aziraphale have interacted before, but this is the first time he really _shares_ part of himself with the angel, a part of himself no ethereal or occult being could understand. I do think Crowley’s “Yeah alright, you don’t drink.” comes off fairly defensively when Aziraphale rejects the first offer, like he’s ready to shut the whole conversation down so he doesn’t have to endure any angelic chastising, but when the second offer is accepted, Crowley finally has someone to share this vice with, someone who understands, someone who is _like him._ The lie to Heaven cements their likeness, and at the end, when Aziraphale expects to be taken to Hell, Crowley is there to offer comfort [in his own way]. By being with him, he is telling Aziraphale that he isn’t _alone._ Aziraphale doesn’t have to suffer the way Crowley suffered. Coming to the confession, I’ve rewatched it many times _because I love pain,_ but I’ve noticed that, while being vulnerable in this way is already hard for Crowley, Heaven’s offer seems to have completely fucked up his train of thought. Suddenly Heaven is back on the table when for four years it had just them, so Crowley defaults back to “let’s run away together”, the same thing he did last season, so no wonder Aziraphale doesn’t exactly catch on. I agree that Crowley is moving on instinct when he initiates the kiss, trying to convey in action what his words have failed him. The kiss itself it multilayered with meaning and emotion, but I think one of the prevalent things Crowley is trying to say is _“Please don’t leave me alone.”_ If you’re going to be making more Good Omens analysis videos then I think I better subscribe. Looking forward to more~
Very good points, every one! Yes, I didn't say it (only text on the screen, I should have been clearer!) but I completely agree, the kiss mostly says "Stay with me". And you are spot on about the loneliness. It is even echoed in the "Angel/demon that goes along with heaven/hell". They are both alone, but now they are alone together. Thank you for the well thought out comment!
@@SendaryaI’m back to add that I hope in season 3 the other archangels bully Aziraphale a bit because there’s no food in Heaven, but when alone and away from their judgemental stares, he starts touching his lips because there’s something else he’s craving that’s notably absent in Heaven.
The Job episode was my favourite out of the whole series, specifically the end of the flashback where azirphale says, "but that sounds... lonely, i thought you said it wasnt" and then crowley said "im a demon..i lied" i was like SOMEONE GIVE THESE TWO A HUG RIGHT NOW ISTG . Also great analysis! I love your vids sm ❤
Thank you so much. :) and it is my favorite episode as well! Aziraphale willingly sacrificing his own eternity for some humans who will be gone in a blink of an eye to him, it makes me so sad, and love him so much.
I love this analysis. But I think it’s as much about temptation as it is about love and showing that the only way he knows how. From Aziraphale’s perspective and using the Job episode for comparison. Temptation (even benign silly temptations) Crowley clings to this as a shield as part of this dance, he’s the serpent of Eden. And Aziraphale struggles to let go of his programming. He can see Crowley is a good person. But he also jumps on him the moment he thinks he might have done wrong. (French Revolution & the church scene). He loves Crowley, and earthly pleasures but he thinks he’s a terrible angel for doing so. And for Aziraphale, Crowley is temptation personified. He gets Aziraphale to eat, (I imagine drink alcohol too), to make the arrangement, even rebel against the Great Plan. Even fall in love with him, angels are supposed to love all equally. He takes Aziraphale to expensive restaurants, buys him gifts, takes him places in his flash car. Crowleys not doing it to be malicious, in fact he does it because he knows who Aziraphale really is, he wants him to be happy and enjoy life. And it’s pretty clear when Aziraphale’s not thinking about it that he loves being spoiled and having Crowley wrapped around his finger. But every temptation Crowley is successful at makes Aziraphale more of a failure as an angel and more human in behaviour. And so when Crowley kisses him like that, just as Aziraphale’s about to become head archangel, right as he’s about to redeem himself and reform heaven. Asking him to give it all up. It feels like one last great temptation. And it is technically but it’s also so much more than that and Aziraphale misunderstands. So I love you, becomes an angry I forgive you.
That is such a great analysis! I agree, it completely ties in to why he says "I forgive you". I'm not sure Crowley sees temptation as a bad thing, though. As he says on the wall in Eden, he's not even sure he's doing the bad thing. It is unfortunate the Aziraphale continues to see it that way.
Agree that there was definitely temptation going on, and Crowley was offering himself as the tempting thing. He struggled with the words, so went with an action as the last ditch effort. Ugh my heart lol
@@Sendarya thanks 😁 I agree I don’t think Crowley thinks the temptations are bad. They aren’t bad at all really. Crowley does it initially because he’s lonely. He sees Aziraphale is different and lonely too. Like the great breakdown of the scene in your video it’s absolutely a test. Then he falls in love and tempting became part of how he showed affection. It’s the defence mechanism so he never has to admit his feelings, even to himself. Temptations get wrapped up in his gifts and acts of service until Aziraphale finds them indistinguishable from Crowley’s normal job as a demon. So Crowley never admits he’s taking Aziraphale on a date, it’s always “can i tempt you to a spot of lunch”. And instead of saying “please help me stop the antichrist because I want to stay with you,” he frames it as a temptation. The arrangement is just an excuse to stay permanent fixtures in each other’s lives, Aziraphale probably agreed to it for the exact same reason. And of course the kiss is a temptation, he’s desperate, he was rejected so the defences came slamming back up. It was a final attempt to get through to Aziraphale.
Excellent observations! If you go back to S1 and the Eden scene, we are shown what at that time was supposed to be their first meeting. Az recognizes him immediately as the fallen angel (fill in the blank) he knows and now seeing their actualy first meeting in the stars, the angel he is smitten with. This was the first meeting of Az and Crawley and you can see Az's distaste for who he became. We know from inferences that they have met up a lot in the centuries. I am thinking that Az just can't get over whatever it is that sent Crowley to Hell....whatever it was, it hurt Az deeply. Again, miscommunication can be a bitch when you're struggling with your feelings.
I love every point you make here. And as for the "I forgive you" I'd like to point out that in the beginning of s2 Aziraphale tells Maggie "I love forgiveness. It's my favorite thing to do" or something like that Cut to the heartbreaking "I forgive you" at the end 🙃
Aziraphale's penchant for forgiveness is so intriguing, especially as it applies to That Scene. @@Sendarya Would you consider collecting Aziaphale's comments on forgiveness and discussing them as they lead up to that last statement of forgiveness?
Absolutely. I think that would make a fascinating character analysis. I'll add it to my list for sure! (I've got 2 in the works right now, but I think it would move up the rest of the list to be the 3rd!)
@Sendarya101 the whole scene really gets me. As someone who's ND, I understand both of their angles easily lol I could actually make a whole rant about it (and I have before lol) but as someone that grew up Christian and left it, I really really feel for Crowley. The whole "you're the bad guys. But come with me and I'll make you better" all the way through to the "I forgive you" it. Just. Hurts.
I feel that is intentional on Neil's part. This show is a live story, but also a deconstruction of religion. I completely understand. Same as you, I grew up in the faith but have left it completely as an adult, so some aspects of this show hit pretty close to home. Azraphale is still trapped by his beliefs and identity, and clearly suffers from cognitive dissonance. Leaving your faith is hard. Season 3 might be really hard for people like us to watch, because it's going to be a helluva journey for this poor angel.
It is harder for me to see the kiss as intended “material gift,” I do think I tend to agree more with your take later in the video that in the moment it’s just an instinctual act of desperation and love. I think it is especially meaningful though (to us as viewers and to Aziraphale) bc as you said, it’s always been Aziraphale showing physical affection. Basically every time we see Crowley touch Aziraphale it’s in a rage or pantomime thereof (which I find completely compelling for the fact that Aziraphale is ALL ABOUT IT in those moments lol - you can see in his face, in the wall scene and in the graveyard when Crowley erupts at him, he honestly seems a little turned on by the closeness but even more importantly, completely unafraid of him. He feels 100% safe around him and even seems completely adoring of Crowley’s characteristic “I’m not nice” outburst in the graveyard. His face there has basically the same look of love and adoration as during the “smitten” convo. Another reason btw why I’m wholly convinced Aziraphale didn’t quite fall in love with Crowley in 1941, only that’s when he really realized it (and that Crowley had been showing him love for all that time and would always take care of him). Ok, I’ve been loving commenting here, this was such a great video! Looking forward to more!! ❤
I do think you are spot on, that 1941 was more a moment of realization than a moment of falling in love. he was definitely in love before that! I also love your observation on how Azi is sort of into it every time Crowley get's in his face about something. Especially in the graveyard, you are right, he is making his "cute" face (same as when the nun says "toesy woesies", too). He is never afraid of Crowley, absolutely! Even other people mistake his "aggression" for intimacy. That would be a very interesting comparison, of all of those scenes! Thank you so much for the comment, and I'm so glad you are enjoying the videos!
I love this analysis of the way they both show love - it's so perfect for both of them I especially love it for Crowley - he's a demon, and his way of showing love just borders on manipulation but it comes from a place of love, and that's so apt. And then you have Aziraphale, who acts with that sort of all-loving-ness that he's supposed to have as an angel but just amplified so much towards Crowley
I think the kiss was also meant to show their humanity, since kissing is a fundamentally human thing, something beyond a typical angel's or demon's understanding. And yet, these two aren't typical angel and demon, as they've lived many years on earth alongside humans and have been influenced by their ways, becoming more and more human themselves. Crowley kissing Aziraphale not only showed his love for him, but also his humanity, which makes it all the more genuine. Because this wasn't something he did because he was a demon serving Hell or because Aziraphale was an angel serving Heaven, but because, in this moment, all their differences and their allegiances were thrown aside, showing their allegiance to each other, to them, rather than to a corrupt system. This proves they have free will and that they aren't some robots with perfect programming, but have emotions and temptations, which is again, a fundamentally human thing, and they are finally giving in to them rather than doing what seems right or logical. It's all perfectly flawed and without reason, because there is no reason in love. And for Crowley this was a sign of loyalty to Aziraphale, but also a sign of disloyalty to Hell or Heaven or any system. It's like a big 'fuck you' to the system in a weird way, even though in that moment he didn't do it for anyone other than the two of them. And I think he did it for himself just as much as he did it for Aziraphale and wanted it just as much, if not more.
I love the way you explained their relationship. I think Crowley in desperation was trying to use Aziraphale's need for physicality to connect, only there was no time to lead up to it, and Crowley was only just coming to grips with love. The bit in the finsl scene that really tears me up is where Crowley says "....and i would like to spend ... mmmm! " That breaks my heart. Looking forward to your next video.
After reading Neil's comments, I rewatched the last scene a couple of times and seems like its possible the kiss was a celestial communication and partial exchange of principalities in some way whereby the two are now one but in separate corporations.
@@Vc-ot1btoh, this is a perfect theory! I am extra busy and just finished watching the season last week, but cannot stop thinking about the ending for days, specifically the credits. There must be a reason for these light shifts, dark/light, making Aziraphale's face so unrecognisable, disturbing development of emotions on his face, and a positively demonic smile in the end. Your comment feels like it is what I opened TH-cam for today 😅 Can you please be so kind and tell a bit more about these Neil's comments that you base your comment on?? Thanks ❤
@@katlinden Neil's various comments that these two are "not humans", but "celestial occult beings who don't really understand complicated human things like gender", and are "sexless unless they make an effort". They can also swap bodies easily, and were originally written by Neio as one being.
What a brilliant take on this. I 100% agree on everything you said. The materialistic and human aspects of their relationship is something people often forget I feel like. I've seen a lot of discussion surrounding this kiss and one argument against it was that since they are supernatural entities they shouldn't feel the need to kiss...yeah, as they shouldn't feel the need to touch or eat or sleep but they still do because they are earthly pleasures that they enjoy, that's the whole point. The kiss is not only Crowley showing Aziraphale that he loves him, because he has been doing that for 6000 years and more, it's a way of saying I love you in a human way, like you brilliantly pointed out. He's not only saying he loves Aziraphale but also the earth, humans and their concept of love and affection. Gabriel and Beelzebub never kiss, nor eat when they are in the pub...sure they hold hands and enjoy a human song but they are not as connected to the earth as aziracrow is and showing that was clearly intentional. They were able to run away because they only cared about their wish to be with each other and nothing else. Aziraphale and Crowley want to be together on earth, with humans. Aziraphale doesn't only want Crowley but also what Crowley represents for him on earth. He doesn't realise this yet but he's eventually gonna do so. I could go on forever their relationship is so well written!!! That being said if they become human in the end I'm never gonna forgive Neil Gaiman (I don't think that will be the case but a girl can fear)
I completely agree, especially with your final point. They love earth and humans and material things, but they should absolutely NOT become human. That would be horrible. They need to learn to accept themselves and each other as they are, not become something else!
Agree 💯. That's what makes "We could have been us!" hit so hard for me. They have become themselves both together and on earth. And they can't just abandon that the way that God abandoned humanity in the Flood. Pretty sure Azi thinks he's going to save humanity and Crowley thinks he's going blindly into a wolf den. Also after watching this vid I feel that the kiss may also be a way for C to say yes to specifically ✨Aziraphale's✨ version of love. with Jane Austen and cotillions and little cakes and UGH. it's like with a single vulnerable gesture he thinks he can take back every sneer, and as it turns out i'm really not as ok as i thought i was.
I LOVED THIS ANALYSIS!! Crowley was desperate and Aziraphale didn't had time to process everyting. They both love each other so much but, right now, it wasn't enough. 💔
This was such a good analysis! I’ve been picking apart little details about this season since it came out and you still brought up things I never even thought about. I love the vulnerability Crowley shows in that last scene, instead of offering Aziraphale a material item, he’s now offering himself. And then to see how broken he was when that seemingly wasn’t enough. My heart can’t take this show!
Crowley's always been so vulnerable to me in their dynamic, because he's the one who seeks out the connection and reaches out to Aziraphale constantly. It's understandable why he has to be in that role, but it still pulls at my heart strings
Oh, God, what a brilliant analysis.😎 I love how you connected those two scenes AND pointed out Aziraphale's and Crowley's distinct "love languages" ...! Ugh, don't stop, girl. These videos slay.🥰🥰 I just subscribed! ❤Thanks for making these.🙏
If Aziraphale thought "I love you" was the expected response he could have easily said it, like an actor reading lines in a play. But those brief few seconds as he struggled desperately to respond -- those seconds were absolutely genuine. Aziraphale is a late-bloomer. He's never really processed sexual maturity and adult emotions. He hides from them and clings to child-like responses and "misunderstanding" cues any mature adult would recognize in a heartbeat. He deeply loves Crowley but fights against responding to him "that way". Hearing a nightengale singing in Barkley Square would be a death knell to the defense barriers that have kept Azi safe from adult emotions for so many years. Crowley's kiss has weakened those barriers and in doing so terrified the poor angel. His safe little space is under direct assault and he doesn't know what to do about it. He's experiencing stirrings of feelings he's repressed and ignored for centuries and that truly frightens him. Eventually he'll have to choose between hiding like a child or entrusting his heart and his body to a demon he dearly loves.
I've always had a problem with the "I love you" potentially being said by Aziraphale, because it feels so disjointed to me, like it doesn't flow well as something one would say when just being slapped with something as huge as a kiss for someone like Aziraphale, who is always cautious and afraid. It was overwhelming for him. I suspect it might just be him stumbling to find his voice, which of course, DOES sound like there's an L there, but... I dunno. That's just my opinion tho. Loved the rest of the video tho!
Totally, not everyone agrees it's there, and that's just as it should be. If Neil meant it to be clear, it would be. I think it's meant to be something for us to wonder about, and keep us guessing. I'm glad you enjoyed the rest of the video! 😊
Yes, I think it’s clear that “I love you” was what every part of Aziraphale (and Crowley) are screaming at each other through this scene, but it wouldn’t feel like natural (nor did it seem like what he was starting to say here) - it did seem like he was going to say something other than “I forgive you” of course, I’m just not sure what I think it was yet. I’d love to hear Michael’s take on this, bc I almost bet it was his acting in the moment, maybe a choice he made, bc Aziraphale was so conflicted and horrified that somehow this was all falling apart. It all happens so fast, the rug pulled out from under them JUST as they finally confront their feelings honestly. For the record, I know some people think Metatron did something to Aziraphale, but I think it’s as simple as - Aziraphale has known for 4 years that at any time Hell can come for Crowley and kill or torture him eternally and he won’t be able to protect or save him. He is given an opportunity to save him as supreme archangel. In that moment he decides to throw away the entire life he loves to be with Crowley and be able to protect him. When he realizes Crowley is not going to come, I think he just still knows this is his only way to save him, that he HAS to go..he feels rejected by Crowley not joining him, but in his mind I think he is desperately hoping it isn’t the end, that somehow he will find a way to save Crowley still and either convince him to come with him, or find some other way to be with him.
I don't know. Aziraphale had clearly been working up his courage for a confession of love to Crowley (nothing can convince me that this wasn't his intention with the ball). He very much wants to tell Crowley he loves him. But he keeps glancing out the window. I think he's afraid someone is watching or listening, and that it would somehow be risky for him to admit his feelings in words that cannot have any other meaning.
Great analysis! The part about how they conceptualise love - and Crowley's realisation that what he's feeling is actually romantic love - got me in particular. It's such a great way of having both the "falling in love" and "I have loved you forever" tropes at the same time.
Honestly brilliant writing! Giving us all the things so we can't stop thinking about them and the cosmic injustice of it all, making us desperate for s3.
Right after the kiss, when Az is lacking of words and mumbling, trying so hard to find the right words, he first says "I lo..." before he interrupts himself and says "I forgive you" instead....😢 People, he practically almost said "I love you" 😭😭😭🥺🥺🥺 My heart💔💔💔
I *wish* he'd said "I love you" instead, it might've turned out differently or at least a tiny bit better. These poor Ineffable Husbands and their miscommunication 😭
I think it’s interesting that when Aziraphale first meets Crowley he says he gives away a flaming sword and that’s when Crowley falls in love with Aziraphale. I just now realized this and this definitely influenced the reason why acts of service is Crowley’s love language.
I hadn’t seen the parallel with the kiss and the ox ribs. I think you are spot on. They both aren’t good at communicating what they are really feeling (which in part may be because they are confused about their own emotions.) Metatron is literally the worst lol.
I love this video! Very thoughtful! I think Aziraphale is hurt that Crowley made them kiss. He's wanted Crowley for so long and he recognises that this was forced and a temptation which has him questioning his faith in Crowley even while being in love with him (thats my inturpretation anyway) 😭💔
This is a really interesting take and analysis. I haven't thought about the whole "material offering for temptation" as a way for Crowley to express his feelings and keep Aziraphale close. I saw it more like something he discovered through the years that makes Aziraphale happy, so he started doing it, and of course, he's a demon, tempting and manipulating is part of his nature, so naturally he'd use it to persuade him when needing it. But now I see what you mean and I think you're totally right. Material or rather earthly stuff as gifts and offerings are the way Crowley learned to communicate to his angel when he's not able to do so with words. I think this last scene is the first time the demon opens up completely, and he feels like he's failing over and over due to how Aziraphale reacts negatively. So he tries what always worked. Maybe he did wanted to kiss Aziraphale but I'm sure he imagined it way differently, and he went for it anyways, because he believed it'd make Aziraphale understand what Crowley was offering and trying to communicate. As for Aziraphale, I don't think he doesn't understand. I take it more like his own restrain and disability to actually be honest with himself. He wants Crowley more than anything, even Heaven, but he's not ready to make that jump just yet. He feels like he's doing the right thing and wants Crowley to do it with him, to be forgiven and come back to Heaven, with him. Aziraphale really thinks in his naivety that the demon would gladly go back to being an angel if given the chance. He doesn't believe (or wants to) that Crowley has changed, he is okay with being what he is and surely doesn't care to change back. He doesn't see the point on doing so. He feels free and also knows that Heaven and Hell are two sides of the same coin. Crowley knows there's no point in choosing sides or trying to change things as they are. They need to stay together and away from both sides. But again, Aziraphale can't see it that way, not yet. So that's why he can't accept what Crowley is offering this time, even if it's what he most desires in the whole existence. He IS sort of disgusted by the kiss, but because of what it means. He's pure, he's chaste, so he can't surrender himself to temptation of that kind. And at the same time he's terrified because he understands he doesn't want anything more than that. That's why he says "I forgive you", he forgives Crowley for using something so precious to tempt him, for trying to persuade him, for doing what he always wanted and never had the guts to admit to himself and act on it in a way that it wasn't supposed to happen. Of course isn't just temptation. Of course Crowley WANTS to kiss him and is a demostration of Crowley's feelings for him. But he's also using it to lure Aziraphale into choosing him over Heaven. And again, that's something he's not ready to do. "You are going to fast for me, Crowley". And I trully believe that Crowley takes it as it is. As he said, he understands way more than Aziraphale does. He probably doesn't even feel rejected, but disappointed. I bet he's thinking, as he leaves the bookshop, "What a coward you turned out to be". And he still waits for him beside the Bentley. Because he knows Aziraphale is low but he'll eventually land there. He eventually will reconsider, and the demon hoped he'd do so before he went after Metatron. But, sadly, he didn't. This whole scene breaks my heart every time I see it, but I can't just get over it and stop watching it over and over again. It's so beautifully painful and marvelously written and played by David and Michael, is just insane.
The acting really is perfect. It's impossible to stop watching, even though it hurts. Great analysis of their different personalities and motivations! Aziraphale is sooo complicated, poor angel, he's got a lot of internal conflict to work through.
I agree with you... I think he's mostly disappointed. Ultimately he gave it all, and it (respectively he) was not enough for Aziraphale. 🤔 Personally (after having re-watched S1&2 several times) I'm not so sad about the ending anymore, because I feel that Crowley is better off without Aziraphale. 🤷♀️ I always have the underlying feeling that Aziraphale doesn't really love him, but sees him more of a convenience and takes him for granted. Maybe he should learn what it means to be truly alone. 🤔
Very interesting analysis, thank you! I believe Gaiman has said that the kiss is a final attempt to communicate - which of course doesn't contradict what you're saying! I also do think it's worth remembering that Crowley is the snake who tempted Eve: he has always tempted others with sensory or sensual experiences. Eve's temptation is directly linked to other carnal pleasures; she's pregnant when they leave the garden. So for thousands of years, Crowley has been leading Aziraphale on to the path of the pleasures of humanity: food, alchol, music, books - and now, perhaps, they are on the path to discovering physical love as well as the emotional love they've shared for centuries. I certainly hope so, anyway!
It is a possibility, for sure! Thank you for your comment. I agree, Crowley is all about temptation, and he also doesn't seem to view it as bad. I think it would be an interesting idea to explore even further.
ooooh, maybe Crowley is doing the same thing with Azi that he did with Eve, tempting to acquire the knowledge of good and evil. We always assume that "knowledge of good and evil" means distinguishing between them. Maybe that knowledge is actually that they're not so distinct - they're gray. Azi is stubbornly clinging to his belief that heaven and angels are good and hell and demons (and therefore Crowley) are bad. For centuries, Crowley's been patiently trying to teach Azi that it's not so simple. He seemed to get a crack during the bodies for medical research scene, but it didn't quite open the door. I wonder whether Azi will ever really 'get it.'
I am so glad you made the video ! I had already seen the idea and comparaison between both scenes discussed in the fandom, but never in such a complete way. And I think you nailed it, as well as the "materialistic" aspect of their relationship. And how they try to express their feeling with whatever tools they have at their disposal. Please go on making analysis video for Good Omens !!
@@SendaryaI just had a thought, about how Metatron managed to have Aziraphale talking to him. He offers him a coffee, something materialistic that Aziraphale likes. He tries (deliberately ?) to do the same thing Crowley does when his angel does not want to listen to him, although in a more forceful way. And it works : Aziraphale starts saying that he has nothing to discuss with the Metatron because he made his position clear. But instead of arguing back, the Metatron points out that he brought him a coffee, and that Az does not dare to refuse (even if it more because of the pressure than pleasure). And then Az let himself be persuaded to speak, after Crowley (unsuspecting) gave his agreement. That was clever in a weirdly human way from Metatron.
I absolutely loved your theory! Its always so much fun to hear people point out things and after your'e like, huh that totally makes sense. One thing that I always pondered myself, was the fact that did Crowley really realize that he was in love with Aziraphale when Nina pointed it out. I always thought it was more like. " I've loved him so long , maybe he loves me back, maybe we could finally be us"
I would say the Crowley knew he cared about Aziraphale, but not being human, hadn't thought about it in human terms until the coffee shot human pointed it out to him. But that's just my feeling, not a fact. What do you think?
@@SendaryaI also wonder whether they both KNEW they were in love (in the human way) but Zira thought Demons couldn't love and Crowley thought Zira would never love him back because he's a Demon, evil, fallen. When Crowley risks his life to save Zira and then has the foresight to rescue his books, just because he KNOWS how much they mean to him, I wonder whether, when Crowley says, "Little Demonic miracle of my own, lift home?" Zira's thinking "Oh my goodness! He loves me too!" Then when Nina points out to Crowley that they are SO OBVIOUSLY a couple, does Crowley think, "If everyone else can see it, perhaps he feels the same?" I hope this is so! ❤
Really love what you've done here! Yes, Aziraphale was about to say "I love you". That bit correlates to another scene this season which also parallels this one, yet it is between Aziraphale and "Jim". Jim, still wearing a blanket, and clueless about everything, say "I love you" to Aziraphale, and Aziraphale almost says it back, automatically, but stops himself, because of course he doesn't love Jim/Gabriel. When faced with Crowley's kiss, he barely squeaks out, "I lo..", and then panics and goes with the phrase he has used on Crowley before, "I forgive you." I don't know if this supports the "automatic" response, or a "moment of truth" response, but just like the ox rib scene, it's there for a reason, and to me, it means this is Aziraphale's truth, he just isn't capable of allowing it. Yet.
I really love how you succeed to read emotions, meanings and social communication between these two. I was excited to learn by such meticulous interpretation. I would love to see more of your views, particularly on non-verbal communication. SO interesting.
WOW!!! You put into words some things I had picked up on, and pointed out others that I hadn't. I loved your analysis of the ox rib scene and what it meant as a change in their relationship. I hadn't even considered that Crowley may be wary of Aziraphale when it came to the kids' safety. And also very cool section about noticing the pattern. Yes, they are terrible communicators, but as Aziraphale says at the end of season 1, things probably wouldn't work out if they were at all competent. Thank you!
I think this scene can also be understood in several metaphorical ways. Aziraphale knows that all is not well in Heaven, that it has been run in a rather poor way all these millennia without any real understanding of 'good'. And he knows that this way of running Heaven continuously holds the danger of complete destruction of the earth and the universe. So it's a bit like living in a country that's run in a totalitarian way. You can either decide to flee - and that's precisely what Crowley suggests by going off together. It would mean that the two of them could remain together safely, but also that they'd lose everything else that was dear to them, everything that made them feel so much at home on earth: the bookshop, the Bentley, the interaction with humans...on Alpha Centauri there'd be no more breakfasts at the Ritz and no more nightingales either. The other possibility might be trying to change things from the inside. That is the chance Aziraphale's been unexpectedly given by Metatron's offer. He thinks it is worth a try, he really believes he could make a difference, if he was in charge in Heaven, especially with Crowley by his side. When realizing that he will NOT have Crowley by his side the task is more difficult for him because it is no longer linked with the prospect of personal happiness. But he takes up the challenge anyway, because for him, true happiness can only be achieved when the institution's being improved from the inside. And there is also a chance in this constellation. If you're responsible for directing the fate of a world you yourself are no longer part of, you might not consider enough the welfare of those who still live in it. But if the person you care for most is left behind in that world which is now depending on your actions you will probably consider them all the more carefully. That is the one thing. The other metaphorical sense that can be seen in the final scene of season 2 is the different concepts of love and romance. Aziraphale almost melts away when watching the couples dance the old-fashioned formal dance together, or when seeing Gabriel and Beelzebub singing sweetly and holding hands. Crowley's kiss on the other hand was admittedly a rather rough action looking quite similar to the 'I'm not nice'-scene in the Mansion in season 1. We viewers know of course, that the kiss does express deep and intense feelings. And that its fierceness just shows how desperately Crowley is trying to prevent Aziraphale from leaving him for ever. But from the outside it looks almost violent. Seeing that this is the first kind of sexual contact they have it metaphorically also mirrors the old religious views that sexuality is something bad, that giving in to it just for personal joy is sinful and so forth. It is a new temptation that Crowley offers to Aziraphale. And as always Aziraphale draws back as a first reaction. And yet seasons 1 and 2 have these in common: every time there was an almost-break-up between Crowley and Aziraphale Crowley returns to face what has to be faced to save Aziraphale - and the world along with it. And every time Aziraphale has been tempted with something unknown he took some time to overcome his lifelong learned views of what is sinful but came to like and enjoy the things Crowley offered to him in the end. And Crowley's ways of offering his temptations also become more refined over the centuries - from offering fatty oxribs in a torn down house to dining at the Ritz. So that gives us some hope for a happier ending in season 3!
Your analysis of Crowley’s misinterpretation of Azi saying “nothing lasts forever” about them instead of his bookshop makes so much sense! The line always pulled at my heartstrings without me knowing why, because I couldn’t imagine Azi saying that about their relationship
I've thought about these aspects of their relationship before, and you put them together wonderfully. I never noticed what Aziraphale is trying to say at the end, I hadn't thought about it, guess now I'll have to watch it again.
If I was the praying sort, I'd be doing that for the writers and actors. As it is, the most any of us can do is donate to SAG-AfTRA to help them get by long enough for the big companies to finally sit down and give them a fair deal! But yeah, we are all in limbo until season 3 :(
Great analysis! I loved the Job episode and especially the ox scene. To me it seemed like Crowley testing out a theory: is Aziraphale a kindred spirit, someone who can help him overcome his loneliness? He's seen Aziraphale's compassion for humanity and thereby in extention his compassion for creation in general. Creation beyond humanity is something Crowley has been very invested in since he helped jump-start the universe. And Aziraphale had been with him and had helped him at its birth. Which, if you think about it, makes them both a kind of surrogate or adoptive parents of creation. Which partly explains why they go to such lengths to preserve it even though they know it was created to be destroyed eventually. I also think it's no coincidence Crowley's first successful temptation of Aziraphale involved meat. In Christianity meat has always been associated with carnal pleasures, which is why in medieval times all the pious knights ate fish instead of meat. And why there's no meat for lent or on Fridays for devout catholics. Eating meat and physical pleasure are kind if interwoven. Then add to this the almost lecherous look on Crowley's face as Aziraphale falls for his temptation and gives into the temptation and you could read this as Crowley tempting Aziraphale with carnal pleasures. The kiss is almost the same scene just without the metaphor.
Absolutely great points! Meat does indeed have symbolism beyond ordinary food. I also love the idea that they are sort of creations adoptive parents. That's so beautiful. Every detail anyone else brings up makes me want to cry again, lol. Thank you for the comment, and I'm really glad you enjoyed the analysis :)
Oh they’re so tragic :( You explained things so well! This video was very well thought out🤍 I just started watching this show and i flew through all the episodes in a week. IM SO DEVASTATED😭😭😭
Not sure that the ox rib scene was quite as you describe, but Crowley for sure uses food and fun to sway Aziraphale at times, although I have yet to see him actually eat anything. Drinks, yup, food not so much. The ox rib scene I think was also the way to mimic Eve's birth to fool Heaven. They both clearly worked together to pull it off, Crowley going to Job's wife and Aziraphale going to Job. I think the scene on the rock was pivotal for both of them. And I do hear the almost "I love you".... and he clearly knew what that means because he didn't say it to Gabriel. I said in other place my theory about how Aziraphale might change his mind about Heaven....somehow either he finds it or is shown it (perhaps by a desperate Crowley trying to "rescue" him) Crowley's trial. How horrible would it be for Aziraphale to see exactly how Heaven had treated his Crowley.? Thoughts?
Ooh, I haven't considered that we might see Crowley's trial, and now I want it so much! I subscribe to the theory that most of his memories before the fall were erased, but if there's a recording, Aziraphale should be high enough in the hierarchy now to be able to access it, right?
I do wonder if we will see some sort of trial or fall, or even some part of the battle? I'm sure he'll see something up there about how Crowley was treated, and realize he doesn't need forgiveness, because he never really did anything wrong in the first place! Thank you for sharing your thoughts :)
That sounds like a great idea! I will say I would like Aziraphale to discover this without Crowley’s involvement, but I’d be fine if it was used to show Crowley finally being full honest to Az on that front. Though I had a thought of how satisfying it could be if it were the Metatron himself who showed Aziraphale the trial or punishment of Crowley; he seems to think that he can plant seeds of disdain in Az’s mind, but I’d love to see him try to push his luck too far and hugely misjudge how Aziraphale would react to Crowley’s reason for falling. Also I want to see some scenes from the actual war between heaven and hell, but I’m not going to hold my breath. Sorry for the thought bomb here…
I think Aziraphale will slowly come to understand that he's being used and that he can't change a system that is inherently broken. He seems to be already aware to some content, and he's cooking up a plan, if I interpret his smile at the end right.
I can't remember if there is some info in the book about Crowley eating but i do remember there is this in Genesis God said to the serpent: “Because you have done this, cursed are you above all livestock and above all beasts of the field; on your belly you shall go, and dust you shall eat all the days of your life." Could that be why Crowley do not eat? Do food taste like dust to poor Crowley?
Omg, I *looove* your analysis! What a nice parallel you have uncovered there. I will be thinking about this for a while. Thank you for sharing these tasty morsels.
I think also Azaraphel is about to say I love you after the kiss because i think it was Azaraphels first real reaction that Crowly loves him too and yes i think the scene with the rib and kiss is conectet.❤😊.
The kiss made me stand straight up and burst into tears! Can’t wait for series 3, I love them both so much. I don’t think he thinks saying I love you would be something Aziraphale would feel compelled to do because it was expected of him, I believe he truly loves Crowley and visa versa, but they are bad communicators when it comes to how they feel about each other, unfortunately!
Two television scenes shatter my heart: (1) This one (2) Ten and Rose. Damn you, David Tennant, you frickin' common denominator. Seriously, though, I agree on everything. To expand, Aziraphale has a strong sense of duty as well. I think he very much struggles between his duty to heaven and to Crowley.
Great point, Azirapahle is very driven by duty. And David is great at emotional acting (although so is Michael!) Thank you so much for the lovely comment. :)
I think Aziraphale's perception of romance comes from the books he loves so much. But in Crowley's case, for him romance is represented as two people in the rain under a roof because that is what he and Aziraphale shared in the creation of the stars and the garden of Eden. He was with the person he loves (although he didn't know it) under his wings while it was raining.
i see it that way: the ox-scene is azi realising - OMG this is something that i never had before, this is new and it is fantastic. how could i have been missing out on this?? the kiss has the same effect on azi. through my eyes the kiss is the first time that aziraphale is kissed and he only then realises a complete new level of longing for someone - crowley.
Really enjoy your videos. They give me a lot to think about. Didn't see anyone else mention this so I thought I'd suggest it for your future rewatches of the Companion to Owls-- In your video you asked if Crowley intentionally let the crows bleat like goats. In watching it, it sounds to me like there is a small "miracle" sound when Crowley takes his glasses off a short time before walking away from Aziraphale. I interpret it to mean that just before insisting he wanted to destroy Job's children, Crowley was making it possible for the crows to be slightly unmasked--if Aziraphale was paying attention.
i think the kiss perfectly fits the context Crowley's and Aziraphale relationship developed in. the two have been living on earth for its entire existence and there's no one else, angel or demon, who understands humanity and its value more than them. tangible things/human things have been not only the excuses they used to spend time together (ie lunch at the ritz, 'i'll give you a lift', etc) but also what has helped them, especially Aziraphale, to step out of their preconceived notions of good and evil, and into their own morality. this naturally lead them to realizing (even though Aziraphale still can't accept it fully) that they can only ever be on their own side. so ofc a very human act, a kiss (which does not happen between Gabriel and Beelzebub because their love has a more otherworldly connotation) would be the extreme and final way Crowley would try to express his love for Aziraphale
I think they both started to feel interest one for the other with the past of the time, first thy see each other rarely then slowly slowly they start to see each other more often, they start a sort of Friendship/ relationship of dependency one for the other, because since they are both creatures who belong to a different plain of existence things like feelings are strange for them, and with time they start to developing the feelings, Aziraphale the books and the food, Crowley his car and the plants, thanks to Nina and Maggie Crowley understand what love is, since Nina make comments here and there saying things like “is your Boyfriend?, your partner?, your Lover?, your husband?, him is an adventure?” That make him understand love, since they had to act for make Nina fall in love with Maggie, since Maggie had already a Crush on Nina, but a the time there was Lindsay. Season two use Nina and Maggie as an Excuse for Make understand to our protagonists what they feel, then there was in the middle Metatron, probably knew what was about to happen, otherwise why propose the role to Aziraphale, since the is only a Principality the third last of the nine class of Angels.
I really like this analysis, and I appreciate the balanced take. After the season dropped I saw a lot of people being really angry with Aziraphale and accusing him of taking Crowley for granted and things like that... but this analysis, I think, does a really good job exploring how the characters communicate and express their love in different ways based on what works for them and what the other best responds to. And I couldn't agree more. I agree with this interpretation on Crowley's kiss, too. Ultimately it's a last-ditch effort to get Az to stay because nothing else has worked, and this is all he has left to offer. It's very interesting to consider that, despite Crowley being a demon and the tempter, does not, at least in the TV series, appear to indulge in the earthly delights that Az does. We don't see him eat, and apart from his car and his plants, there's not much he's actually attached to. He has regard for life, but at the end of the day, he could clearly take or leave humans. He's also not very physical --- as you pointed out, any time they touch, it's usually Aziraphale who initiates it. All this to say I don't think Crowley's first tendency is to show love in such a physical way. I think in the moment he just desperately hoped it was something Az would respond to because earthly pleasures have worked before, and he was out of other options. It's not like he had any real understanding of romance and relationships, after all --- he thought he could just smush two people together like Barbies under a tarp in the rain and call it a day. It's just too bad he didn't get a chance to see just how much that kiss actually impacted Aziraphale :(
Thanks for the wonderful analysis! Just finished the second season and my heart is just aching! Cannot wait for the final season and hope there will be a happy ending for the both of them
I know I'm late to the party here, but just found your channel and really love your analyses - well researched and balanced! I agree with most of what you've said here - the one thing I'd probably add, which I've not seen anyone mention, is that despite already being upset, in a generally stressful and unpleasant situation, and being basically pounced on with a pretty aggressive kiss, I think it speaks volumes that Aziraphale still responds to some extent. It shows the depth of feeling that's there, for anything to get through at all.
@@Sendarya just had another thought, which I can't believe only just occurred to me. On your point around Aziraphale always being the one to reach out and place a hand on Crowley - that's still true here - other than directly through the kiss, Crowley doesn't touch Aziraphale at all, whereas Aziraphale does reach up and place his hands on Crowley.
This is a fantastic analysis and I could not have enjoyed it more. I've pondered this question a lot and what you say resonates with me. I think there is a connection between the two scenes (and the several other examples of their dynamic that you mention), but I had never thought of it in the way presented here. I wonder -- partly because they are so clueless about love and because they aren't human -- if they feel desire in the same way that humans do. I agree that the kiss was desperate, romantic, and even angry. Again, this was wonderful and I look forward to more!
Thank you, I am so glad you enjoyed it! They do clearly feel desires. I'm not sure if they feel desire that particular way, but it is a very good question! I think that's something Neil might leave open for our interpretation. Also, excellent point about anger. There's something like that going on, for sure!
I keep coming back to this analysis. This really is extraordinary. Looking quite forward to seeing your next scene breakdown. Also, I went back to watch that moment you mention at the conclusion of the series and the end of your analysis of The Kiss. Aziraphale's clipped response went right past me the first (many) times I have watched this scene, but I think you are dead on about the intention, though swallowed back before it really even got out of his mouth.
I'm so glad you find this analysis so compelling. I'm very much enjoying making them :) The half swallowed, half stuttered response is VERY easy to miss.
With character analysis, you never know if you're picking up on deliberate designs the author intended or if you're noticing the author's subconscious writing habits - or the actor's habits. And there's always the possibility that you're reading into coincidental parallels. I do hope there's pay off for showing Aziraphale and Crowley's individual specific reasons for going against God's plan, more than just providing interesting backstory. Seems like the show makes a lot of effort go into detail about why they 'fell', so I hope it's important to the plot or at least the overall story. Did seeing Crowley go from a happy galaxy builder to a miserable tempter traumatize Azi, making him terrified of questioning God's plan too? Does it mean anything that Crowley questioned God near the beginning, but it takes millennia of tempting Azi with pleasure to get him to break out of his blind obedience? Did Crowley want to kiss Azi or was he just doing what he thought would get him to stay? Is it strange for an angel/demon to like physical touch or would they all like it if they tried it? I won't believe Azi almost said 'I love you' until it's officially confirmed. Seems like a moment so easy miss that it wouldn't make a lot of sense for it to be super important to the plot. We already know they're in love. I want to know more about the 'I forgive you'. WHAT is he forgiving Crowley for? For kissing him without agreeing to come with him? For trying to manipulate him? Are angels forbidden from kissing? (given the grey area surrounding their genders and sexual orientations, I wonder if Neil would want to poke a hornet's nest by making God's homophobia canon in the GO universe)
Very interesting points. You are correct, character analysis like these are always guessing games. This plays into if a person is a "death of the author" or an "authorial intent" sort of person. Neil himself seems to believe in "death of the author", so that makes me far more comfortable doing analysis on his work, because what matters is what the readers/viewers see and get out of it. As to why Azi says forgive you, that is something I am working on for an upcoming video (2 weeks, I think). Of course, it will again me my own interpretation, mixed with what others have said, as I do factor the fan community opinions into these essays as much as I can. But I hope you come back and check it out in any case. All opinions are welcome, here, and I really love seeing such a variety of ideas in the comments! People are so creative :)
First, thank you too Emily for the encouragement as I think these videos are excellent! I have to process it for a bit to make some comments/observations, but again, excellent as always!
Wonderfull analysis ! I make a tiktok about why this kiss lasts so long, i also draw a parallel with Job's episode and the food part. What if this long kiss was for Aziraphale can take the time to like it, like he take the time to appreciate food ? I think the "i love you" is a cancel sentence like "I love you but I can't just runaway with you, I need their camps in peace to be happy with you" Because I think that's really what he wants, but also he's struggle by their angel's responsibilies and their opposite nature.
Interesting points. Yes, I do think the kiss lasts so long because Crowley is waiting for Aziraphale to give in and enjoy it, like with the food. But this has a lot more weight of emotion behind it, so it's going to take him a lot longer than the kiss could have lasted. That makes me sad :(
@@Sendarya Yes ! I think also there are so many feels and idea knock over in his head ! He can't take the time to analyse and feels. But I don't think he changed his mind even if he had time to process, his peronnality seems to need ultimatum. Btw i love your work on this video i'll watch your others =)
I really enjoy your videos, thank you for the time and effort you (and your contributors) put into making them. I firmly believe after the kiss Aziraphale starts to say “I can’t…” But to what would have followed, I’m not sure. I can’t believe you did that, I can’t run away, I can’t turn my back on the world…
Just found your channel. This is your best video yet, based on good analysis and so well presented - you can really hear the love for the characters. I look forward to future videos!
I watch all their together moments over and over, also this most heartbreaking one. And sometimes a song "Without you Im nothing" (Placebo and David Bowie) comes to my mind. Kind of fits this cruel scene.
Its obvious that Crowley kissed him to get him to stay. That doesn't mean that it wasn't genuine. However, the urgency of the situation did push Crowley to reveal his feelings sooner and in a different manner to what he would have wanted. What interests me more is Aziraphale's declaration of forgiveness. Its definitely not about the kiss. I think its about Crowley refusing to come with him. After the kiss, he considers everything that Crowley said while asking him to stay. The fact that Crowley was willing to reinforce it with a kiss shows Aziraphale that Crowley's not gonna budge from his resolve. So he forgives Crowley for not coming with him. See, Crowley and Aziraphale want the same thing : to be together. In their minds, the other one is choosing not to be with them. Aziraphale thinks Crowley is choosing Earth and his demonism over him and Crowley thinks that Aziraphale is choosing Heaven and his angelity over him. In their last moments together, Aziraphale is angry but he still can't bring himself to scorn Crowley, so he forgives him for not coming away but is obviously hurt by the choice. All Crowley hears is rejection, so he storms off.
Whoa, that's a great analysis. I've never really noticed what their each preferred love language is, but now that you pointed it out, it's quite obvious! I love that Aziraphale is so often the first to touch Crowley, that's adorable 🥺 I'm stoked for more videos in this series!
Thankyou American person for pronouncing Crowley properly. I keep seeing YT American videos where they say Crauley., I have to wonder if they call the black raven like bird a crau. I really love this. I think it's spot on, not sure I'd relate it to the ox ribs. The way I see it, Aziraphale is always saying nice things to Crowley, which he often rejects, and he is always making heart eyes at him. That's how he expresses his feelings. Crowley, makes grand gestures. He has asked Aziraphale twice in S1 to run away with him, and both times, he just came back when it was rejected. This time, he knows he can't just come back , he's desperate so this is his biggest gesture yet. Totally agree it's about communicating and it's all about being in love. Gaiman says this also.
Crowley clearly watches the sort of romances where that end in the love interests bickering (often in the rain) and when words fail them the more dominant partner forcefully kisses the resistant partner. In fiction this often releases all the built up tension, makes them drop the argument and confess their love and they decide love is more important thanks to the fight and forgive each other. I think Good Omens is trying to show that trope would actually be quite hurtful to both parties. If I remember correctly a lot of fans wanted Crowley to just force a kiss in the season one gazebo scene (probably because it’s easier to portray than these two suddenly having effective communication skills) Crowley had been harmed by thinking that’s an acceptable way to communicate his feelings which would drive most people away. Az is hurt because he was kissed without his consent forcefully without warning or his own chance to express his feelings. Crowley has pinned Az to the wall before so he had no reason to anticipate it being a kiss and not an attack which is still kind of is.
I’m curious as to how you would know all that or how these 2 opposing parties would be in such a situation. But I agree that that trope is unlikable. “Crowley had been harmed”? Not sure what that means Fans/shippers are more likely to ruin art nowadays because of the maker of the series bowing down to them. Because yeah it may not be necessarily the standard but I do believe it is increasing in occurrence.
No one really talks about this, and I can't really blame them because I only really noticed on my 4th rewatch or so, but, look at Aziraphale as he's ascending to heaven in the credits. On the left, Crowley is driving sad, but almost stoic in his understanding he has failed. But then there's Azi on the right, who is literally going through every possible human emotion processing what just happened. And I don't think he's processing his emotion, or the second coming, I think he's processing the kiss.
You are right, he's going through a lot on that lift. I like that idea! I've actually got a little mini video coming later today that explores that as one of the possibilities. So, you think the smiles is him realizing what the kiss means? Or something else about the kiss? I'm curious to hear more!
I think the first time Aziraphale actually rejects another offer of a worldly gift/ temptation was when Aziraphale joins Crowley at the French restaurant - which is a weird scene - I'd like a whole analysis of that by itself. Crowley does say Have a glass? and Aziraphale says I'm at work. I kind of wonder though if he had taken the glass of wine if Crowley would have started a conversation about Did you know Nina thought we were together? Are we together? And actually had that conversation they needed to have. I don't know why, I can picture that. I also think it's a weird scene where Crowley - decides to go day drink about his feeling about Aziraphale and ends up talking about his fears with Gabriel. - And then THAT scene ends with him being really sweet to Gabriel!?
That is a really fascinating scene, I agree! You're right, he does reject the offer there, though he still sits and chats for a bit. That would be a fascinating scene to analyze! I've added it to my (ever growing!) list, thank you!
I feel like Crowley had felt that way for quite a while but was scared Aziraphale might run away if he tried to get closer, at the end Crowley realized aziraphale was leaving him anyway so it was kind of a nothing to lose move
Your analysis is awesome & amazingly thought out and summarized. And presented so wondefully. Kudos to you and your hard work & time to pull these together. You are so right about all of this. I was waiting for you to mention that the Metatron used a page out of Crowley's book by bringing Aziraphale coffee, saying he'd consumed things too, and I think (though I'll have to go back and look), patting him on the back or taking him by the arm or putting his arm around his shoulder. I've watched like 4 videos in a row & I love your idea about part of Crowley being in Aziraphale at the end. These two actors excel at the subtleties of expression & imitating each other. And it makes perfect sense...Crowley offering himself, whole heartedly, to his angel and accidentally leaving his "heart" with him (and to be able to continue protecting & rescuing him) is completely believable (for a fictional story, lol). Also wondering if when you say they can equal God or confront her, I wonder if it may be saving her from Metatron's plans (like we've seen in other fiction). Or her ineffable plan being completed by them creating together the new heaven on earth, really meaning earth without heaven (or hell). And the left/right analysis is so lovely...the writers, directors, actors, etc are such geniuses. And thank you for presenting it so well. I'd hadn't picked up on it consciously but I know it played into the subconscious message I got when watching. I can't compliment you enough. My english teacher, the most excellent of the old school type, would have loved your analyses! A+
Aziraphale is conflicted because of identity. Angels are not allowed to indulge in human-like love without resigning as Gabriel did. Indeed Gabriel had to completely lose his identity before being able to do a new thing. Aziraphale was more comfortable with the idea of Crowley changing his identity and re-becoming an angel than he is of changing his idea of himself.
Who knows that they don't talk to each other is a lie, because they have a plan (maybe not at first, but Aziraphale told Crowley later). If it is true, I hope they talk again soon, even if it is only to avoid the New Apocalypse (while they fix their relationship). Either way, no doubt that they will be nervous.
Thank you to this entire fandom for all the love and support in the comments. Due to the nature of this video, I'm sadly going to have pin this little note. Almost everyone here has been positive and respectful. Thank you all for that! We can all have different views, and I am happy to see people respect that. But bigoted comments will NOT be tolerated on this channel. I do check my comments at least once a day, and any comments that are bigoted or disrespectful to other people simply for being who they are will be removed. To everyone else (the VAST majority of you), thank you!
Edited to add that I say in this video that they first met as Demon and Angel on the wall, which is true; Neil confirmed it is their first meeting as Angel and Demon. It's an important point. Please don't be the 75th person to incorrectly try and correct this. Thanks!
It was Crowley's last desperate attempt to show Aziraphale his feelings and make him stay.
Absolutely true! I was initially hesitant to even make this video, because on the one hand, the answer is so obvious. But I really wanted to explore the wonderful storytelling set up and payoff this show has delivered, as well as deeper character motivations. I'm fascinated by both of their personalities, and love finding all the little hidden details we've been given :)
Neil Gaiman said it was a last ditch attempt at communication.
@@ericamacs3875
And we know how bad at communicating these two are...
@@3pebbles Care to elaborate?
@@3pebbles did you mean me repeating what Neil Gaiman said because the writer misunderstands his own work? And is ridiculous?
The thing about Aziraphale's "I forgive you" is that it's also a short-hand way of saying something. In the first season, as well as here, I think it means, "You've said or done something which is hurtful to me, but I still care about you, anyway." If Aziraphale had any ideal scenario in mind where he and Crowley would end up kissing, it would be in a happy moment, very stereotypically romantic, more like during the Shopkeepers Association meeting/dance before it got so rudely interrupted.
This kiss was not just a kiss, it was an attempt to get Aziraphale to do something, even though it was also an expression of Crowley's feelings. While Aziraphale is intelligent enough to understand that both of these things can be true, it's hurtful that a kiss would be used to manipulate him, in a way, as it could make him feel like his feelings for Crowley are made a mockery of. He's not been stingy about showing Crowley how he feels this second season, after all.
Personally, I think that is part of why he says "I forgive you" - to him, it signals that he loves Crowley, despite being deeply hurt. Like his own misunderstanding about Crowley's bookshop comment, Crowley misunderstands Aziraphale's meaning behind his forgiveness.
Absolutely. I forgive you is not meant to be hurtful at all. And I agree with your interpretation of why he says it, as well. There's so many details, if I tried to cover the meaning of everything in one video, it would be 3 hours long, lol. I think the I forgive you deserves it's own entire breakdown. Much like "It's always too late". There's so much there!
I actually disagree with you on why Aziraphale says "I forgive you" in season 1 (though I do feel the sentiment is similar). We had just had a scene where Crowley said he was unforgivable and that is the whole point of him being a demon. And so I see Aziraphale saying "I forgive you" because God will not and that Aziraphale doesn't see what Crowley did as being unforgivable, so he will even if God will not. And actually after the opening of Season 2 this belief in why Aziraphale says "I forgive you" is cemented.
So I do agree with you that it is a way for Aziraphale to say I care about you, and also a way to say I love you without saying I love you.
I do feel the Season 2 "I forgive you." is more of a legitimate 'I forgive you' in that even Aziraphale could tell in the moment that Crowley was manipulating him and that he was forgiving him for doing it.
Absolutely, the "I forgive you" needs a whole breakdown itself. In a writing context, the way it mirrors "hate the sin, love the sinner" holier-than-thou attitude is heartbreaking on it's own. I do believe it was meant as "I love you", but absolutely the most wrong thing to say at the time. Exquisite writing, exquisite agony. 😅😭
YES, EXACTLY!! I love this. This is so true, Crowley totally misunderstands the meaning of the "I forgive you" and of course the fact of him responding in a negative way hurts Aziraphale even more than what he already was. I mean, they weren't understanding each other's point, they need to be honest with each other and they need to really have a time to talk to each other and understand each other's point. I love them very much, but Nina and Maggie are right!! They aren't good at communicating. They have been feeling all this love for so many years, yet nothing has ever happened or change between them bc they don't talk about it. I mean, Crowley didn't even seem to know his true feelings until Nina brought the topic out, and that's one more signal of this miscommunication between them.
I think something that needs to be explored is the thought of how Crowley sees his fall from heaven - 'I forgive you' and the offer to be an angel again could be seen as the ultimate betrayal to someone who, arguably shouldn't have even fallen. Aziraphale has outright disobeyed heaven several times and suffered no punishment (although they wanted to obliviate him, but didn't really check that they were successful), and it could be argued that what he has done warrants a fall. But it is Crowley who fell, mostly just for asking questions, and being with the wrong people at the wrong time. He's been feeling that injustice for 6000 years, and then he's offered a chance to come back? Like nothing ever happened? Does that mean his original 'sin' was arbitrarily judged? Seems so! And Aziraphale still judges him for what he is, which is infinitely sad, as Crowley is the far more just and righteous of the two of them. Aziraphale is correct in always calling Crowley nice - it's just true, and I think Crowley is intelligent enough to recognize his own qualities even if he doesn't want to hear about them out loud. And so every day is The Fall all over again for him. And thus Aziraphale wanting him to be an angel again is the ultimate betrayal of the pureness of what Crowley has become on his own - not perfect, but certainly as far from evil as you can get, capable of deep love and kindness. It hurts to even think about it - that poor demon has fought so hard to be better than either side, but it's never good enough, and it never will be. And that's why he kissed Aziraphale- he was trying to show him everything about who he's become over the millenia and show him what is possible. It's desperate because he knows it probably won't work, but he has to try no matter how hard it is, because that's the purity of who he is. The saddest part is that Aziraphale both understands and doesn't (or won't) in that same moment.
I'm dying, I died, I am dead over this scene😭😭😭
Oh gosh, this has DEVASTATED me. Crowley has always offered material things to Aziraphale as a means to show he loves him, but also be closer to him. "Let me get you lunch! (and I will also be there)", "Do you need a lift? (and we will be in the same space for a little bit)". So if the kiss is meant to fit into Crowley's pattern of gift giving, then it is the first time there that there's no pretense on what he's really offering. In the end there was nothing more he wanted to give to Aziraphale, nothing more he _could_ give, than himself.
That is absolutely heartbreaking. But I think your take is correct.
Brb going to cry in my pillow
I loved your view of the scene
Ouch. Now it hurts even more.
Can I summarize it this way? Crowley always wanted to give himself to Aziraphale but during kiss there’s no pretense. So Crowley genuinely wanted to kiss Aziraphale and this was not just a manipulation and a physical way to convince Aziraphale to stay with him? I know he wanted to convince him but after I watched this video I panicked that this is was merely a manipulation that Crowley learned over the years.
I saw somewhere that Aziraphale like likes the more cluttered, cozy feel of the bookshop because of the emptiness of heaven, and Crowley prefers the minimalistic style of his flat because of how cluttered and crowded hell is. I think this could also play a part in their love languages. Aziraphale like gifts and material things because he didn’t have those things in heaven, and Crowley appreciates trust and words of validation because of the lack of trust that there is between demons in hell.
Exactly, and well said!
In regards to the scene where Crowley saves the books, I would say that Azariphale has been in love with Crowley for hundreds or even thousands of years but was in denial about it. This was just the first time that he realizes it, even if he cannot fully mentally or verbally acknowledge it.
I like that take. Unacknowledged feelings are a real thing, and Aziraphale is very stubborn.
I thought it also might be the point where Aziraphale realizes Crowley cares for him, too. Sure, Crowley likes to rescue Aziraphale, but that could just be a quirk of Crowley's or a way to keep Aziraphale around in case Crowley needs angelic help. Saving something that Aziraphale treasures shows Aziraphale that Crowley cares about how Aziraphale feels. Which I think helps Aziraphale realize he loves Crowley.
His face definitely says "Oh shit, I love him". And he keeps looking at Crowley like he's a snack.
@@Sendaryaagreed with everyone here. I think Aziraphale and Crowley both develop early crushes/fixations on one another and ultimately fall in love MILLENNIA before they realize (or are able to admit to themselves and adjust to the fact) that they’re in love with one another romantically.
I’m on board with Sheen for seeing the 1941 “saving of the books” as the moment Aziraphale is thunderstruck by the true depth of his feeling for Crowley, combined with (as the other person mentioned) his realization that Crowley has been showing him love for some time as well, that he does and will think of Aziraphale and his feelings and what will make him happy, and do whatever he can for Aziraphale always.
Remember, too, that Azariphale still stubbornly believes in the ineffible plan, where angels are above human feeling and Crowley is on the wrong side.
Azariphale still thinks he fits into the plan, and he sees a way to save Crowley. He's devastated that Crowley won't cooperate, but Crowley knows they would lose everything to go back and fit in.
I felt a side-bar sentiment behind that would be similar to knowing you're gay, but staying in the closet because "it's not the done thing" (much more common in my era where it was so stigmatized). It wasn't blatantly so, but it felt similar.
Crowley was giving the ultimate gift, his love and himself
No?
I suppose the way Aziraphale sees it, both instances were temptations. 1) temptation to eat, connected to the sin of gluttony. 2) temptation of the pleasures of the flesh. Normally he doesn't mind Crowley tempting him because his temptations aren't malicious, they're actually fun. But the kiss, that was crossing the line for Aziraphale. Especially because he has feelings for Crowley, no matter whether he's aware of their full extent of not, and it seems to him that with that kiss Crowley just tried to use Aziraphale's feelings to manipulate him. Of course he immediately forgave him, but he feels hurt nevertheless.
For Crowley the kiss was what he felt was his last resort to make Aziraphale see reason, make him understand. And a kiss always works in movies, right? The couple argues, they're unable to communicate properly, but then they kiss and - vavoom, sorted! Instant happy ending! Credits roll. Crowley tried to replicate it, the poor thing.
A very valid interpretation of this "I forgive you". Something I also intend to cover more fully, eventually! I didn't really get to address Azi's feeling here, mostly focusing on why Crowley did what he did. There is so much nuance and detail in this show!
Y sabes lo interesante de tu comentario? Que Crowley ama las películas, hace referencias a ellas, pero el sr Fell no tiene intención de dejar de ser un ángel, porque no sabe ser algo más, cuando creyó que era un demonio lloró desconsolado y su amigo le mostró una realidad diferente, Az perdona siempre perdona y espera que Crowley regrese al cielo porque ese tipo de amor puro es el que quiere que sea eterno😊
I totally missed how Crowley suggests abandoning the bookshop and then bargains with it 2 seconds later. That’s some great spot-on analysis on the specifics of Crowley’s behavior-thanks for pointing it out!
There's so much detail in every scene! I'm glad you enjoyed the video, and found new information as well. :)
I also hadn’t noticed this, it’s really a great observation! It really shows Crowley’s desperation, trying everything he can think so get Aziraphale to stay - it makes the scene so much sadder (which I did not know was possible)
He doesn't mean running away from the bookstore. He wants to run away from heaven and hell. It's a state of mind and not a place.
I think Aziraphale almost said I love you because he feels it. Not because it is expected. I think that is why we got the Gabriel saying I love you to Aziraphale sceen. He didn't respond back to him with an "I love you" because he doesn't feel that for Gabriel.
I couldn't agree more! :) I also think that is the point of the lip reading bit during the bullet catch. So the audience knows there are a few times we need to really pay attention to things barely said.
@@Sendarya Oooh. I REALLY like that analysis of the lip reading scene.
Teaching the audience what to pay attention to / how to read the book.
I also like it as sort of an easy parallel to the "demons at the threshold" scene.
I also think that part of the reason why Crowley kissed Azariphale was because Crowley had just realized that he was in love with him a few hours ago and, unlike Azirpahale whom has had... what, over 100 years to process that fact that he is in love with his demon and make the (poorly executed) decision to act on those feelings, he hasn’t had time to process it, all these huge feelings. Then Azariphale was wanting to leave and the kiss was Crowley acting upon this feeling of “I just realized that I’m completely head over heels for you and now you’re leaving you can’t leave I don’t even know what these feelings are or what they mean but you need to stay”. Lack of time and communication was the biggest two factors in this, in the ending of S2. I hope that in S3 they take breaks from Action Plot and have Character/ Relationship Development Plot and Healthy Communication Plot, otherwise the last installment will be a major let down for me.
Completely agree that Crowley was just now trying to contextualize the notion of love into his feelings. I also hope we get plenty of quiet moments for character and relationship development in s3!
Man that’s actually a concern that I have for season 3 because a LOT needs to be dealt with in terms of Aziraphale’s and Crowley’s characterization and relationship dynamic, AND simultaneously drive the Second Coming plot forward. Specially since Neil has said that S3 won’t be as ‘gentle and romantic’ as this season, I’m genuinely scared about how they’re going to wrap this up is only six episodes (unless there’s more🤞) in a way that their relationship and characterization doesn’t get outweighed by plot.
@@Itssymbolicjohnyes, same! I'm honestly not as hopeful as most fans that we'll get our sweet happy ending with Aziraphale and Crowley together and in love in their little cottage in South Downs. I mean, if S3 is going to be louder and more chaotic, it just doesn't leave much room for anything sweet and comforting and romantic. Like, personally, the "soft romantic" tone of S2 wasn't technically referring to Aziraphale and Crowley, but Gabriel and Belazabub, so I kind of feel like we're owed one hell of a make-up reunion and a sweet soft epilogue in the end, but I'm not getting my hopes up 😢.
@@beezer81 I feel you! Personally I trust that we’ll get a happy ending; i just hope that the journey from where we left off at S2 to the South Downs is done properly :’(
@@Itssymbolicjohn I hear you! I mean, Neil did say that everything would be OK, so I technically trust him to do Aziraphale & Crowley justice, and if he doesn't, you know one Michael Christopher Sheen would revolt, hahaha! I also hope that the journey from S2 ending to S3 ending is done properly too - my worst fear is that we'll barely get Aziraphale & Crowley in any scenes together in present time...yeah, a few flashbacks during those History scenes, but I'm worried they'll be apart until the last episode, which TBH would be AWFUL. I mean, I adore the History scenes, but I want present day Aziraphale & Crowley to make-up and actually have togetherness amidst the chaos of stopping The Second Coming. So, that's why I'm worried, lol.
I think of the kiss as a reminder of something human. Angels and Demons don't kiss, but humans do. The whole point of them stopping Armageddan was so they could continue to enjoy the earthly human delights like wine, food, and bookshops. Like you mentioned in the video, it worked before for Crowley.
I love the comparison of the two scenes, never thought of it! he just always so desperately wants Aziraphale with him, that's why he also always saves him. hes very lonely always has been, and Aziraphale is the only one he really bonded ever so he would never let him go 🥺
That part about being lonely is so true. They only have each other. 🥺
But does Aziraphale feel the same?
@lakshmicp2150 I think the desperate cry "I need you" makes it pretty clear that he does.
@@Sendarya@lakshmicp2150 Also, the way Aziraphale's first reaction to Metatron was "but I don't want to go to heaven." Then he realized real quick he needed a reason (that wasn't Crowley) so he says, "where would I get my coffee?" Umm. You don't drink coffee, Aziraphale. You're not fooling anyone and then, of course, Metatron uses his love for Crowley against him. 😢😡
I loved this analysis. And it actually makes it more heartbreaking thinking is the first time Crowley offers touch to Azira being so chaotic.
It really is so very heartbreaking. The timing could hardly have been worse, but such are acts of desperation :( I'm glad you enjoyed the analysis, though.
Ooooooofttt I'd never seen a still of the instant before the kiss at 10:17 and just wow, the pain on their faces is devastating. Thank you for drawing my attention to this and making the scene even more heartbreaking. Another wonderful analysis too, thank you for these videos, they are fabulous!
When I started doing this, I thought for sure watching these scenes over and over to get clips would make me more numb to it. Nope. Editing this together and finding these stills is an emotional journey every time. That still shot breaks my heart!
Thank you for your kind words, And I'm so glad you're enjoying the videos!
Verissimo
So you’re telling me you didn’t pause THAT scene frame by frame like I did? lol I’m so normal about this
@@Itssymbolicjohn alas I did not, I guess it's time to go in for my fourth season 2 rewatch (i am also so normal about this)
@@Sendaryamy experience too. There's so much detail, so many layers, and David and Michael are so incredibly attuned to their characters, that every damn time I go over it, I find something new to break my heart
What I would love from season 3 would be for them to gain other support systems other than each other, Nina, Maggie, heaven and hell. They need healthy relationships outside of each other to be in a healthy place with each other and themselves. The idea of only having each other is conceptually romantic, but it’s also unhealthy and dangerous, which is what makes it so popular; the excitement. But in a healthy relationship with communication, boundaries, a sense of self love and understanding, that’s when love and affection become so much stronger and deeper.
Maybe Ineffable Bureaucracy could play such a role eventually, they did make Jimbriel rather sweet and likeable after all, so Gabriel miiight have retained some of those qualities. And ofc there is Muriel
I see hints of 'found family' friendship potential with Jim/Gabriel & Beezlebub, Maggie & Nina, and of course Muriel. Suspect these will continue in s3. In fact, if heaven & hell vs humanity turns out to be the "Big One" as Crowley hinted at the end of s1, we might see more connections form from BOTH sides.
@@theanswerisowlHA! I love it, "Jimmm-briel" (yes, I internally read that in Gabriel's voice LOL)
I think I’m probably the only person who would actually just love fewer side characters and plots with them and just more pure Aziraphale/Crowley time. I love a good ensemble cast, but I feel like Good Omens is more their story than ensemble. Of course hoping for plenty of Muriel, but given that British seasons are 6 episodes only, I compare that to ensemble shows I’ve loved, you end up with HOURS more content of each of your favorite characters. I’m not only terrified we may never get a season 3, but I know if we do I’ll be dreading any time that’s wasted not on the two most compelling and delightful characters I’ve seen on screen in FOREVER, bc that’s only 6 hours guaranteed left, there won’t probably be a season 4, and half the show not including them at all will kill me lol.
But I’m obsessed with them so there’s that.
@@JoaMaj idk, I don’t forgive Gabriel. They kinda shoehorned that romance in there, we’re supposed to care bc these two have had like 5 dates, when our boys have been basically dating for millennia, and now that Gabriel has found love, we’re supposed to forget and forgive that he’s been a murderous sadistic tyrant imbecile for his whole existence. I think I’ll barf if they make him everyone’s friend in the next season.
I think Crowley, yes, finds it extremely hard--alllllmost impossible--to talk about his emotions, probably because he hasn't HAD to name and reflect on them (the only person who showed care for him or how he is is Az, but they don't talk about feelings, which is part of the problem!) Notice in that final scene he never actually says "I love you" or finishes the sentence "I would like to spend..." He resorts to denigrating heaven--"it's toxic!"--which doesn't help his case w/ Az. I think with his new realization of his love and maybe passion for Az, he wanted to kiss him, AND I think it was shorthand to show his love when words didn't work.
Season 3, they really need to actually SAY what they mean!
Interesting! I think they never ever actually told each other how they felt. And I don't mean "I love you", I mean "I like you" or "I enjoy spending time with you", "I miss you", "I am glad to see you" etc. Aziraphale doesn'r either. In the final scene he tells Crowley only "I need you". The subtext is always there, obviously, but they never IN TEXT say how they feel, during the entire show. I would have to do a complete rewatch to be sure, but ...
The unfinished "I would like to spend" is the closest we get, I think.
In my mind, when Crowley says "I would like to spend..." my mind continues it with "eternity with you..."
Crowley gives Aziraphale food because Crowley gets pleasure from watching Aziraphale eat. It was even said in the lockdown mini episode on TH-cam. "I'll come over and watch you eat." This makes sense to me because I love watching the people I care for eat, especially if I prepared the food. There are many scenes in both seasons where Crowley quite unabashedly watches Aziraphale eat. Honestly it's been lovely for me to see on the screen someone who feels love the way I do.
Indeed he does! The lockdown special is adorable "I could sliver over and watch you eat cake" is exactly how I imagine them spending time together, lol.
I found the fact Crowley offered an Ox rib as Aziraphale's first taste of food questionable because he could have offered bread or anythin else, but he offered 'flesh' (and a huge bit as well). Watching an angel eating flesh and then liking it showed how far Aziraphale could be tempted away from the divine. Also, the fact it was a 'rib' made me think of lifelong companionship as supposedly God made Eve from the rib of Adam to be his companion. Overall, that scene could be predicting that they both could become lifelong sexual partners as Aziraphale could be tempted to cross that line by Crowley.
I also felt that Crowley wasn't conscious that he actually loved Aziraphale that way, I think he did love him but hadn't realised in what context until he helped the two ladies but I think the particular moment was when Gabriel and Beelzebub declared their love for each other and left. It was like getting the permission they needed.
They needed the ribs for the "birth" of Job and Sitith's new children.
Yes. When he says "if Gabriel and Beelzebub can do it" I was like REPRESENTATION MATTERS because he finally did have an example and thought, oh hey this could work.
I've also been thinking about how the parallels of the ox rib and kiss scene are intentional, both were instances of temptation and persuasion that Aziraphale initially felt conflicted about that ended up becoming something he holds dear to him
I hope we get to see some version of that "holds dear to him" about this kiss in season 3, for sure!
@@Sendarya after the Apology Dance.
@@Sendarya Like a real reciprocated one? Fingers crossed 🤞
After all, if Aziraphale found food to be so intense an experience for the first time, imagine a first kiss.
@@ariaflame-au If he liked it, he'd want more of it. But to his terms and conditions.
what other show, honestly, could make you feel so. much. pain. and yet be so happy about it
Honestly, so true!!!
What good timing, I was just perusing your other theory videos.
For me, the cellar scene is more about Crowley’s loneliness. He and Aziraphale have interacted before, but this is the first time he really _shares_ part of himself with the angel, a part of himself no ethereal or occult being could understand. I do think Crowley’s “Yeah alright, you don’t drink.” comes off fairly defensively when Aziraphale rejects the first offer, like he’s ready to shut the whole conversation down so he doesn’t have to endure any angelic chastising, but when the second offer is accepted, Crowley finally has someone to share this vice with, someone who understands, someone who is _like him._ The lie to Heaven cements their likeness, and at the end, when Aziraphale expects to be taken to Hell, Crowley is there to offer comfort [in his own way]. By being with him, he is telling Aziraphale that he isn’t _alone._ Aziraphale doesn’t have to suffer the way Crowley suffered.
Coming to the confession, I’ve rewatched it many times _because I love pain,_ but I’ve noticed that, while being vulnerable in this way is already hard for Crowley, Heaven’s offer seems to have completely fucked up his train of thought. Suddenly Heaven is back on the table when for four years it had just them, so Crowley defaults back to “let’s run away together”, the same thing he did last season, so no wonder Aziraphale doesn’t exactly catch on. I agree that Crowley is moving on instinct when he initiates the kiss, trying to convey in action what his words have failed him. The kiss itself it multilayered with meaning and emotion, but I think one of the prevalent things Crowley is trying to say is _“Please don’t leave me alone.”_
If you’re going to be making more Good Omens analysis videos then I think I better subscribe. Looking forward to more~
Very good points, every one! Yes, I didn't say it (only text on the screen, I should have been clearer!) but I completely agree, the kiss mostly says "Stay with me". And you are spot on about the loneliness. It is even echoed in the "Angel/demon that goes along with heaven/hell". They are both alone, but now they are alone together. Thank you for the well thought out comment!
Really good analysis! Love it. 👏
@@SendaryaI’m back to add that I hope in season 3 the other archangels bully Aziraphale a bit because there’s no food in Heaven, but when alone and away from their judgemental stares, he starts touching his lips because there’s something else he’s craving that’s notably absent in Heaven.
Literal tears! 😭
"Because I love pain" 😂😂😂
The Job episode was my favourite out of the whole series, specifically the end of the flashback where azirphale says, "but that sounds... lonely, i thought you said it wasnt" and then crowley said "im a demon..i lied" i was like SOMEONE GIVE THESE TWO A HUG RIGHT NOW ISTG .
Also great analysis! I love your vids sm ❤
Thank you so much. :) and it is my favorite episode as well! Aziraphale willingly sacrificing his own eternity for some humans who will be gone in a blink of an eye to him, it makes me so sad, and love him so much.
I love this analysis. But I think it’s as much about temptation as it is about love and showing that the only way he knows how. From Aziraphale’s perspective and using the Job episode for comparison. Temptation (even benign silly temptations) Crowley clings to this as a shield as part of this dance, he’s the serpent of Eden. And Aziraphale struggles to let go of his programming. He can see Crowley is a good person. But he also jumps on him the moment he thinks he might have done wrong. (French Revolution & the church scene). He loves Crowley, and earthly pleasures but he thinks he’s a terrible angel for doing so.
And for Aziraphale, Crowley is temptation personified. He gets Aziraphale to eat, (I imagine drink alcohol too), to make the arrangement, even rebel against the Great Plan. Even fall in love with him, angels are supposed to love all equally. He takes Aziraphale to expensive restaurants, buys him gifts, takes him places in his flash car. Crowleys not doing it to be malicious, in fact he does it because he knows who Aziraphale really is, he wants him to be happy and enjoy life. And it’s pretty clear when Aziraphale’s not thinking about it that he loves being spoiled and having Crowley wrapped around his finger.
But every temptation Crowley is successful at makes Aziraphale more of a failure as an angel and more human in behaviour. And so when Crowley kisses him like that, just as Aziraphale’s about to become head archangel, right as he’s about to redeem himself and reform heaven. Asking him to give it all up. It feels like one last great temptation. And it is technically but it’s also so much more than that and Aziraphale misunderstands. So I love you, becomes an angry I forgive you.
That is such a great analysis! I agree, it completely ties in to why he says "I forgive you". I'm not sure Crowley sees temptation as a bad thing, though. As he says on the wall in Eden, he's not even sure he's doing the bad thing. It is unfortunate the Aziraphale continues to see it that way.
Agree that there was definitely temptation going on, and Crowley was offering himself as the tempting thing. He struggled with the words, so went with an action as the last ditch effort. Ugh my heart lol
@@Sendarya thanks 😁 I agree I don’t think Crowley thinks the temptations are bad. They aren’t bad at all really. Crowley does it initially because he’s lonely. He sees Aziraphale is different and lonely too. Like the great breakdown of the scene in your video it’s absolutely a test. Then he falls in love and tempting became part of how he showed affection. It’s the defence mechanism so he never has to admit his feelings, even to himself. Temptations get wrapped up in his gifts and acts of service until Aziraphale finds them indistinguishable from Crowley’s normal job as a demon. So Crowley never admits he’s taking Aziraphale on a date, it’s always “can i tempt you to a spot of lunch”. And instead of saying “please help me stop the antichrist because I want to stay with you,” he frames it as a temptation. The arrangement is just an excuse to stay permanent fixtures in each other’s lives, Aziraphale probably agreed to it for the exact same reason. And of course the kiss is a temptation, he’s desperate, he was rejected so the defences came slamming back up. It was a final attempt to get through to Aziraphale.
Excellent observations! If you go back to S1 and the Eden scene, we are shown what at that time was supposed to be their first meeting. Az recognizes him immediately as the fallen angel (fill in the blank) he knows and now seeing their actualy first meeting in the stars, the angel he is smitten with. This was the first meeting of Az and Crawley and you can see Az's distaste for who he became. We know from inferences that they have met up a lot in the centuries. I am thinking that Az just can't get over whatever it is that sent Crowley to Hell....whatever it was, it hurt Az deeply. Again, miscommunication can be a bitch when you're struggling with your feelings.
I love every point you make here. And as for the "I forgive you" I'd like to point out that in the beginning of s2 Aziraphale tells Maggie "I love forgiveness. It's my favorite thing to do" or something like that
Cut to the heartbreaking "I forgive you" at the end 🙃
An excellent point. I don't think Aziraphale says it to be hurtful, certainly. But Crowley seems to take it that way.
Aziraphale's penchant for forgiveness is so intriguing, especially as it applies to That Scene. @@Sendarya Would you consider collecting Aziaphale's comments on forgiveness and discussing them as they lead up to that last statement of forgiveness?
Absolutely. I think that would make a fascinating character analysis. I'll add it to my list for sure! (I've got 2 in the works right now, but I think it would move up the rest of the list to be the 3rd!)
@Sendarya101 the whole scene really gets me. As someone who's ND, I understand both of their angles easily lol I could actually make a whole rant about it (and I have before lol) but as someone that grew up Christian and left it, I really really feel for Crowley. The whole "you're the bad guys. But come with me and I'll make you better" all the way through to the "I forgive you" it. Just. Hurts.
I feel that is intentional on Neil's part. This show is a live story, but also a deconstruction of religion. I completely understand. Same as you, I grew up in the faith but have left it completely as an adult, so some aspects of this show hit pretty close to home. Azraphale is still trapped by his beliefs and identity, and clearly suffers from cognitive dissonance. Leaving your faith is hard. Season 3 might be really hard for people like us to watch, because it's going to be a helluva journey for this poor angel.
It is harder for me to see the kiss as intended “material gift,” I do think I tend to agree more with your take later in the video that in the moment it’s just an instinctual act of desperation and love. I think it is especially meaningful though (to us as viewers and to Aziraphale) bc as you said, it’s always been Aziraphale showing physical affection. Basically every time we see Crowley touch Aziraphale it’s in a rage or pantomime thereof (which I find completely compelling for the fact that Aziraphale is ALL ABOUT IT in those moments lol - you can see in his face, in the wall scene and in the graveyard when Crowley erupts at him, he honestly seems a little turned on by the closeness but even more importantly, completely unafraid of him. He feels 100% safe around him and even seems completely adoring of Crowley’s characteristic “I’m not nice” outburst in the graveyard. His face there has basically the same look of love and adoration as during the “smitten” convo.
Another reason btw why I’m wholly convinced Aziraphale didn’t quite fall in love with Crowley in 1941, only that’s when he really realized it (and that Crowley had been showing him love for all that time and would always take care of him).
Ok, I’ve been loving commenting here, this was such a great video! Looking forward to more!! ❤
I do think you are spot on, that 1941 was more a moment of realization than a moment of falling in love. he was definitely in love before that! I also love your observation on how Azi is sort of into it every time Crowley get's in his face about something. Especially in the graveyard, you are right, he is making his "cute" face (same as when the nun says "toesy woesies", too). He is never afraid of Crowley, absolutely! Even other people mistake his "aggression" for intimacy. That would be a very interesting comparison, of all of those scenes! Thank you so much for the comment, and I'm so glad you are enjoying the videos!
I love this analysis of the way they both show love - it's so perfect for both of them
I especially love it for Crowley - he's a demon, and his way of showing love just borders on manipulation but it comes from a place of love, and that's so apt.
And then you have Aziraphale, who acts with that sort of all-loving-ness that he's supposed to have as an angel but just amplified so much towards Crowley
I think the kiss was also meant to show their humanity, since kissing is a fundamentally human thing, something beyond a typical angel's or demon's understanding. And yet, these two aren't typical angel and demon, as they've lived many years on earth alongside humans and have been influenced by their ways, becoming more and more human themselves. Crowley kissing Aziraphale not only showed his love for him, but also his humanity, which makes it all the more genuine. Because this wasn't something he did because he was a demon serving Hell or because Aziraphale was an angel serving Heaven, but because, in this moment, all their differences and their allegiances were thrown aside, showing their allegiance to each other, to them, rather than to a corrupt system. This proves they have free will and that they aren't some robots with perfect programming, but have emotions and temptations, which is again, a fundamentally human thing, and they are finally giving in to them rather than doing what seems right or logical. It's all perfectly flawed and without reason, because there is no reason in love. And for Crowley this was a sign of loyalty to Aziraphale, but also a sign of disloyalty to Hell or Heaven or any system. It's like a big 'fuck you' to the system in a weird way, even though in that moment he didn't do it for anyone other than the two of them. And I think he did it for himself just as much as he did it for Aziraphale and wanted it just as much, if not more.
I love the way you explained their relationship. I think Crowley in desperation was trying to use Aziraphale's need for physicality to connect, only there was no time to lead up to it, and Crowley was only just coming to grips with love. The bit in the finsl scene that really tears me up is where Crowley says "....and i would like to spend ... mmmm! " That breaks my heart.
Looking forward to your next video.
Agreed, that specific line is so hard to watch. Delivered so well, it's heart breaking.
After reading Neil's comments, I rewatched the last scene a couple of times and seems like its possible the kiss was a celestial communication and partial exchange of principalities in some way whereby the two are now one but in separate corporations.
@@Vc-ot1btoh, this is a perfect theory! I am extra busy and just finished watching the season last week, but cannot stop thinking about the ending for days, specifically the credits. There must be a reason for these light shifts, dark/light, making Aziraphale's face so unrecognisable, disturbing development of emotions on his face, and a positively demonic smile in the end. Your comment feels like it is what I opened TH-cam for today 😅
Can you please be so kind and tell a bit more about these Neil's comments that you base your comment on?? Thanks ❤
@@katlinden Neil's various comments that these two are "not humans", but "celestial occult beings who don't really understand complicated human things like gender", and are "sexless unless they make an effort". They can also swap bodies easily, and were originally written by Neio as one being.
What a brilliant take on this. I 100% agree on everything you said. The materialistic and human aspects of their relationship is something people often forget I feel like. I've seen a lot of discussion surrounding this kiss and one argument against it was that since they are supernatural entities they shouldn't feel the need to kiss...yeah, as they shouldn't feel the need to touch or eat or sleep but they still do because they are earthly pleasures that they enjoy, that's the whole point. The kiss is not only Crowley showing Aziraphale that he loves him, because he has been doing that for 6000 years and more, it's a way of saying I love you in a human way, like you brilliantly pointed out. He's not only saying he loves Aziraphale but also the earth, humans and their concept of love and affection. Gabriel and Beelzebub never kiss, nor eat when they are in the pub...sure they hold hands and enjoy a human song but they are not as connected to the earth as aziracrow is and showing that was clearly intentional. They were able to run away because they only cared about their wish to be with each other and nothing else. Aziraphale and Crowley want to be together on earth, with humans. Aziraphale doesn't only want Crowley but also what Crowley represents for him on earth. He doesn't realise this yet but he's eventually gonna do so. I could go on forever their relationship is so well written!!!
That being said if they become human in the end I'm never gonna forgive Neil Gaiman (I don't think that will be the case but a girl can fear)
I completely agree, especially with your final point. They love earth and humans and material things, but they should absolutely NOT become human. That would be horrible. They need to learn to accept themselves and each other as they are, not become something else!
Agree 💯. That's what makes "We could have been us!" hit so hard for me.
They have become themselves both together and on earth. And they can't just abandon that the way that God abandoned humanity in the Flood. Pretty sure Azi thinks he's going to save humanity and Crowley thinks he's going blindly into a wolf den.
Also after watching this vid I feel that the kiss may also be a way for C to say yes to specifically ✨Aziraphale's✨ version of love. with Jane Austen and cotillions and little cakes and UGH. it's like with a single vulnerable gesture he thinks he can take back every sneer, and as it turns out i'm really not as ok as i thought i was.
Me either :(
I LOVED THIS ANALYSIS!! Crowley was desperate and Aziraphale didn't had time to process everyting. They both love each other so much but, right now, it wasn't enough. 💔
Yep, it breaks the heart anew every time we watch it. :(
This was such a good analysis! I’ve been picking apart little details about this season since it came out and you still brought up things I never even thought about.
I love the vulnerability Crowley shows in that last scene, instead of offering Aziraphale a material item, he’s now offering himself. And then to see how broken he was when that seemingly wasn’t enough. My heart can’t take this show!
Thank you. You are right though, it's not just any material item, it's HIM. :( It's kind of amazing how the hurt doesn't seem to be letting up.
Crowley's always been so vulnerable to me in their dynamic, because he's the one who seeks out the connection and reaches out to Aziraphale constantly. It's understandable why he has to be in that role, but it still pulls at my heart strings
Oh, God, what a brilliant analysis.😎 I love how you connected those two scenes AND pointed out Aziraphale's and Crowley's distinct "love languages" ...! Ugh, don't stop, girl. These videos slay.🥰🥰 I just subscribed! ❤Thanks for making these.🙏
Thank you so much! I'm so glad you are enjoying them, and thank you for the sub 🥰
If Aziraphale thought "I love you" was the expected response he could have easily said it, like an actor reading lines in a play.
But those brief few seconds as he struggled desperately to respond -- those seconds were absolutely genuine. Aziraphale is a late-bloomer. He's never really processed sexual maturity and adult emotions. He hides from them and clings to child-like responses and "misunderstanding" cues any mature adult would recognize in a heartbeat. He deeply loves Crowley but fights against responding to him "that way". Hearing a nightengale singing in Barkley Square would be a death knell to the defense barriers that have kept Azi safe from adult emotions for so many years.
Crowley's kiss has weakened those barriers and in doing so terrified the poor angel. His safe little space is under direct assault and he doesn't know what to do about it. He's experiencing stirrings of feelings he's repressed and ignored for centuries and that truly frightens him. Eventually he'll have to choose between hiding like a child or entrusting his heart and his body to a demon he dearly loves.
I've always had a problem with the "I love you" potentially being said by Aziraphale, because it feels so disjointed to me, like it doesn't flow well as something one would say when just being slapped with something as huge as a kiss for someone like Aziraphale, who is always cautious and afraid. It was overwhelming for him. I suspect it might just be him stumbling to find his voice, which of course, DOES sound like there's an L there, but... I dunno. That's just my opinion tho. Loved the rest of the video tho!
Totally, not everyone agrees it's there, and that's just as it should be. If Neil meant it to be clear, it would be. I think it's meant to be something for us to wonder about, and keep us guessing. I'm glad you enjoyed the rest of the video! 😊
Agree with this, plus I just don't SEE those words forming there on his lips.
Yes, I think it’s clear that “I love you” was what every part of Aziraphale (and Crowley) are screaming at each other through this scene, but it wouldn’t feel like natural (nor did it seem like what he was starting to say here) - it did seem like he was going to say something other than “I forgive you” of course, I’m just not sure what I think it was yet. I’d love to hear Michael’s take on this, bc I almost bet it was his acting in the moment, maybe a choice he made, bc Aziraphale was so conflicted and horrified that somehow this was all falling apart. It all happens so fast, the rug pulled out from under them JUST as they finally confront their feelings honestly.
For the record, I know some people think Metatron did something to Aziraphale, but I think it’s as simple as - Aziraphale has known for 4 years that at any time Hell can come for Crowley and kill or torture him eternally and he won’t be able to protect or save him. He is given an opportunity to save him as supreme archangel. In that moment he decides to throw away the entire life he loves to be with Crowley and be able to protect him. When he realizes Crowley is not going to come, I think he just still knows this is his only way to save him, that he HAS to go..he feels rejected by Crowley not joining him, but in his mind I think he is desperately hoping it isn’t the end, that somehow he will find a way to save Crowley still and either convince him to come with him, or find some other way to be with him.
Exactly. It would be out of character of him to start saying "I love you" in this context.
I don't know. Aziraphale had clearly been working up his courage for a confession of love to Crowley (nothing can convince me that this wasn't his intention with the ball).
He very much wants to tell Crowley he loves him.
But he keeps glancing out the window. I think he's afraid someone is watching or listening, and that it would somehow be risky for him to admit his feelings in words that cannot have any other meaning.
The real answer to that question is to make us cry
You aren't wrong! lol
Great analysis! The part about how they conceptualise love - and Crowley's realisation that what he's feeling is actually romantic love - got me in particular. It's such a great way of having both the "falling in love" and "I have loved you forever" tropes at the same time.
Honestly brilliant writing! Giving us all the things so we can't stop thinking about them and the cosmic injustice of it all, making us desperate for s3.
@@SendaryaNeil Gaiman knew what he did.
Right after the kiss, when Az is lacking of words and mumbling, trying so hard to find the right words, he first says "I lo..." before he interrupts himself and says "I forgive you" instead....😢 People, he practically almost said "I love you" 😭😭😭🥺🥺🥺 My heart💔💔💔
Yes! I agree, that's what he almost says
I *wish* he'd said "I love you" instead, it might've turned out differently or at least a tiny bit better. These poor Ineffable Husbands and their miscommunication 😭
I think it’s interesting that when Aziraphale first meets Crowley he says he gives away a flaming sword and that’s when Crowley falls in love with Aziraphale. I just now realized this and this definitely influenced the reason why acts of service is Crowley’s love language.
There is this subtle little detail adding to the tension. The ticking clock.
100% yes
I hadn’t seen the parallel with the kiss and the ox ribs. I think you are spot on. They both aren’t good at communicating what they are really feeling (which in part may be because they are confused about their own emotions.) Metatron is literally the worst lol.
He really is the worst, isn't he? Thank you for the comment, and I'm glad you found the two scenes being connected to be compelling :)
I love this video! Very thoughtful! I think Aziraphale is hurt that Crowley made them kiss. He's wanted Crowley for so long and he recognises that this was forced and a temptation which has him questioning his faith in Crowley even while being in love with him (thats my inturpretation anyway) 😭💔
This is a really interesting take and analysis. I haven't thought about the whole "material offering for temptation" as a way for Crowley to express his feelings and keep Aziraphale close. I saw it more like something he discovered through the years that makes Aziraphale happy, so he started doing it, and of course, he's a demon, tempting and manipulating is part of his nature, so naturally he'd use it to persuade him when needing it.
But now I see what you mean and I think you're totally right. Material or rather earthly stuff as gifts and offerings are the way Crowley learned to communicate to his angel when he's not able to do so with words. I think this last scene is the first time the demon opens up completely, and he feels like he's failing over and over due to how Aziraphale reacts negatively. So he tries what always worked. Maybe he did wanted to kiss Aziraphale but I'm sure he imagined it way differently, and he went for it anyways, because he believed it'd make Aziraphale understand what Crowley was offering and trying to communicate.
As for Aziraphale, I don't think he doesn't understand. I take it more like his own restrain and disability to actually be honest with himself. He wants Crowley more than anything, even Heaven, but he's not ready to make that jump just yet. He feels like he's doing the right thing and wants Crowley to do it with him, to be forgiven and come back to Heaven, with him. Aziraphale really thinks in his naivety that the demon would gladly go back to being an angel if given the chance. He doesn't believe (or wants to) that Crowley has changed, he is okay with being what he is and surely doesn't care to change back. He doesn't see the point on doing so. He feels free and also knows that Heaven and Hell are two sides of the same coin. Crowley knows there's no point in choosing sides or trying to change things as they are. They need to stay together and away from both sides.
But again, Aziraphale can't see it that way, not yet. So that's why he can't accept what Crowley is offering this time, even if it's what he most desires in the whole existence. He IS sort of disgusted by the kiss, but because of what it means. He's pure, he's chaste, so he can't surrender himself to temptation of that kind. And at the same time he's terrified because he understands he doesn't want anything more than that.
That's why he says "I forgive you", he forgives Crowley for using something so precious to tempt him, for trying to persuade him, for doing what he always wanted and never had the guts to admit to himself and act on it in a way that it wasn't supposed to happen. Of course isn't just temptation. Of course Crowley WANTS to kiss him and is a demostration of Crowley's feelings for him. But he's also using it to lure Aziraphale into choosing him over Heaven. And again, that's something he's not ready to do. "You are going to fast for me, Crowley".
And I trully believe that Crowley takes it as it is. As he said, he understands way more than Aziraphale does. He probably doesn't even feel rejected, but disappointed. I bet he's thinking, as he leaves the bookshop, "What a coward you turned out to be". And he still waits for him beside the Bentley. Because he knows Aziraphale is low but he'll eventually land there. He eventually will reconsider, and the demon hoped he'd do so before he went after Metatron. But, sadly, he didn't.
This whole scene breaks my heart every time I see it, but I can't just get over it and stop watching it over and over again. It's so beautifully painful and marvelously written and played by David and Michael, is just insane.
The acting really is perfect. It's impossible to stop watching, even though it hurts. Great analysis of their different personalities and motivations! Aziraphale is sooo complicated, poor angel, he's got a lot of internal conflict to work through.
@@Sendarya He really is! Both are, and that's what makes their relationship so appealing. Thank you for replying ♥
I agree with you... I think he's mostly disappointed. Ultimately he gave it all, and it (respectively he) was not enough for Aziraphale. 🤔 Personally (after having re-watched S1&2 several times) I'm not so sad about the ending anymore, because I feel that Crowley is better off without Aziraphale. 🤷♀️ I always have the underlying feeling that Aziraphale doesn't really love him, but sees him more of a convenience and takes him for granted. Maybe he should learn what it means to be truly alone. 🤔
Very interesting analysis, thank you! I believe Gaiman has said that the kiss is a final attempt to communicate - which of course doesn't contradict what you're saying!
I also do think it's worth remembering that Crowley is the snake who tempted Eve: he has always tempted others with sensory or sensual experiences. Eve's temptation is directly linked to other carnal pleasures; she's pregnant when they leave the garden. So for thousands of years, Crowley has been leading Aziraphale on to the path of the pleasures of humanity: food, alchol, music, books - and now, perhaps, they are on the path to discovering physical love as well as the emotional love they've shared for centuries. I certainly hope so, anyway!
It is a possibility, for sure! Thank you for your comment. I agree, Crowley is all about temptation, and he also doesn't seem to view it as bad. I think it would be an interesting idea to explore even further.
ooooh, maybe Crowley is doing the same thing with Azi that he did with Eve, tempting to acquire the knowledge of good and evil. We always assume that "knowledge of good and evil" means distinguishing between them. Maybe that knowledge is actually that they're not so distinct - they're gray. Azi is stubbornly clinging to his belief that heaven and angels are good and hell and demons (and therefore Crowley) are bad. For centuries, Crowley's been patiently trying to teach Azi that it's not so simple. He seemed to get a crack during the bodies for medical research scene, but it didn't quite open the door. I wonder whether Azi will ever really 'get it.'
Man, deep dives into any media form is really entertaining to me, thanks for fueling the obsession I have with Good Omens :)
I am so glad you made the video ! I had already seen the idea and comparaison between both scenes discussed in the fandom, but never in such a complete way. And I think you nailed it, as well as the "materialistic" aspect of their relationship.
And how they try to express their feeling with whatever tools they have at their disposal.
Please go on making analysis video for Good Omens !!
Thank you for the lovely encouragement!
@@SendaryaI just had a thought, about how Metatron managed to have Aziraphale talking to him. He offers him a coffee, something materialistic that Aziraphale likes. He tries (deliberately ?) to do the same thing Crowley does when his angel does not want to listen to him, although in a more forceful way. And it works : Aziraphale starts saying that he has nothing to discuss with the Metatron because he made his position clear. But instead of arguing back, the Metatron points out that he brought him a coffee, and that Az does not dare to refuse (even if it more because of the pressure than pleasure). And then Az let himself be persuaded to speak, after Crowley (unsuspecting) gave his agreement.
That was clever in a weirdly human way from Metatron.
Absolutely! That's the very topic I mentioned in this video, that will be in the next video. :)
I absolutely loved your theory! Its always so much fun to hear people point out things and after your'e like, huh that totally makes sense. One thing that I always pondered myself, was the fact that did Crowley really realize that he was in love with Aziraphale when Nina pointed it out. I always thought it was more like. " I've loved him so long , maybe he loves me back, maybe we could finally be us"
I would say the Crowley knew he cared about Aziraphale, but not being human, hadn't thought about it in human terms until the coffee shot human pointed it out to him. But that's just my feeling, not a fact. What do you think?
@@SendaryaI also wonder whether they both KNEW they were in love (in the human way) but Zira thought Demons couldn't love and Crowley thought Zira would never love him back because he's a Demon, evil, fallen.
When Crowley risks his life to save Zira and then has the foresight to rescue his books, just because he KNOWS how much they mean to him, I wonder whether, when Crowley says, "Little Demonic miracle of my own, lift home?" Zira's thinking "Oh my goodness! He loves me too!"
Then when Nina points out to Crowley that they are SO OBVIOUSLY a couple, does Crowley think, "If everyone else can see it, perhaps he feels the same?"
I hope this is so! ❤
Really love what you've done here!
Yes, Aziraphale was about to say "I love you". That bit correlates to another scene this season which also parallels this one, yet it is between Aziraphale and "Jim".
Jim, still wearing a blanket, and clueless about everything, say "I love you" to Aziraphale, and Aziraphale almost says it back, automatically, but stops himself, because of course he doesn't love Jim/Gabriel.
When faced with Crowley's kiss, he barely squeaks out, "I lo..", and then panics and goes with the phrase he has used on Crowley before, "I forgive you."
I don't know if this supports the "automatic" response, or a "moment of truth" response, but just like the ox rib scene, it's there for a reason, and to me, it means this is Aziraphale's truth, he just isn't capable of allowing it. Yet.
I love the way way phrased that "Aziraphale's truth". Beautiful and I agree!
I really love how you succeed to read emotions, meanings and social communication between these two. I was excited to learn by such meticulous interpretation. I would love to see more of your views, particularly on non-verbal communication. SO interesting.
WOW!!! You put into words some things I had picked up on, and pointed out others that I hadn't. I loved your analysis of the ox rib scene and what it meant as a change in their relationship. I hadn't even considered that Crowley may be wary of Aziraphale when it came to the kids' safety. And also very cool section about noticing the pattern. Yes, they are terrible communicators, but as Aziraphale says at the end of season 1, things probably wouldn't work out if they were at all competent. Thank you!
Ha, great point! Their incompetence is part of why things always work out in the end.
I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
Before Aziraphale said "I forgive you" a small "I love you" was heard.
YES! I agree. It's in my random thought at the end. :)
I think this scene can also be understood in several metaphorical ways. Aziraphale knows that all is not well in Heaven, that it has been run in a rather poor way all these millennia without any real understanding of 'good'. And he knows that this way of running Heaven continuously holds the danger of complete destruction of the earth and the universe. So it's a bit like living in a country that's run in a totalitarian way. You can either decide to flee - and that's precisely what Crowley suggests by going off together. It would mean that the two of them could remain together safely, but also that they'd lose everything else that was dear to them, everything that made them feel so much at home on earth: the bookshop, the Bentley, the interaction with humans...on Alpha Centauri there'd be no more breakfasts at the Ritz and no more nightingales either.
The other possibility might be trying to change things from the inside. That is the chance Aziraphale's been unexpectedly given by Metatron's offer. He thinks it is worth a try, he really believes he could make a difference, if he was in charge in Heaven, especially with Crowley by his side. When realizing that he will NOT have Crowley by his side the task is more difficult for him because it is no longer linked with the prospect of personal happiness. But he takes up the challenge anyway, because for him, true happiness can only be achieved when the institution's being improved from the inside. And there is also a chance in this constellation. If you're responsible for directing the fate of a world you yourself are no longer part of, you might not consider enough the welfare of those who still live in it. But if the person you care for most is left behind in that world which is now depending on your actions you will probably consider them all the more carefully.
That is the one thing.
The other metaphorical sense that can be seen in the final scene of season 2 is the different concepts of love and romance. Aziraphale almost melts away when watching the couples dance the old-fashioned formal dance together, or when seeing Gabriel and Beelzebub singing sweetly and holding hands. Crowley's kiss on the other hand was admittedly a rather rough action looking quite similar to the 'I'm not nice'-scene in the Mansion in season 1. We viewers know of course, that the kiss does express deep and intense feelings. And that its fierceness just shows how desperately Crowley is trying to prevent Aziraphale from leaving him for ever. But from the outside it looks almost violent. Seeing that this is the first kind of sexual contact they have it metaphorically also mirrors the old religious views that sexuality is something bad, that giving in to it just for personal joy is sinful and so forth. It is a new temptation that Crowley offers to Aziraphale. And as always Aziraphale draws back as a first reaction.
And yet seasons 1 and 2 have these in common: every time there was an almost-break-up between Crowley and Aziraphale Crowley returns to face what has to be faced to save Aziraphale - and the world along with it. And every time Aziraphale has been tempted with something unknown he took some time to overcome his lifelong learned views of what is sinful but came to like and enjoy the things Crowley offered to him in the end. And Crowley's ways of offering his temptations also become more refined over the centuries - from offering fatty oxribs in a torn down house to dining at the Ritz.
So that gives us some hope for a happier ending in season 3!
Your analysis of Crowley’s misinterpretation of Azi saying “nothing lasts forever” about them instead of his bookshop makes so much sense! The line always pulled at my heartstrings without me knowing why, because I couldn’t imagine Azi saying that about their relationship
I've thought about these aspects of their relationship before, and you put them together wonderfully. I never noticed what Aziraphale is trying to say at the end, I hadn't thought about it, guess now I'll have to watch it again.
As a couples counselor, I love that you brought the concept of love languages into this! I never thought about it that way, but it's right on!
What tortures me is how long we'll have to wait for the 3rd season what with the strikes. Let's hope it all goes well for the writers
If I was the praying sort, I'd be doing that for the writers and actors. As it is, the most any of us can do is donate to SAG-AfTRA to help them get by long enough for the big companies to finally sit down and give them a fair deal! But yeah, we are all in limbo until season 3 :(
Great analysis! I loved the Job episode and especially the ox scene. To me it seemed like Crowley testing out a theory: is Aziraphale a kindred spirit, someone who can help him overcome his loneliness? He's seen Aziraphale's compassion for humanity and thereby in extention his compassion for creation in general. Creation beyond humanity is something Crowley has been very invested in since he helped jump-start the universe. And Aziraphale had been with him and had helped him at its birth. Which, if you think about it, makes them both a kind of surrogate or adoptive parents of creation. Which partly explains why they go to such lengths to preserve it even though they know it was created to be destroyed eventually.
I also think it's no coincidence Crowley's first successful temptation of Aziraphale involved meat. In Christianity meat has always been associated with carnal pleasures, which is why in medieval times all the pious knights ate fish instead of meat. And why there's no meat for lent or on Fridays for devout catholics. Eating meat and physical pleasure are kind if interwoven. Then add to this the almost lecherous look on Crowley's face as Aziraphale falls for his temptation and gives into the temptation and you could read this as Crowley tempting Aziraphale with carnal pleasures. The kiss is almost the same scene just without the metaphor.
Absolutely great points! Meat does indeed have symbolism beyond ordinary food. I also love the idea that they are sort of creations adoptive parents. That's so beautiful. Every detail anyone else brings up makes me want to cry again, lol. Thank you for the comment, and I'm really glad you enjoyed the analysis :)
Oh they’re so tragic :(
You explained things so well! This video was very well thought out🤍 I just started watching this show and i flew through all the episodes in a week. IM SO DEVASTATED😭😭😭
Welcome to the fandom.
@@Sendarya I love it here already!!😭🫶🏾
This kiss says "I love you" through touch.
I now go to drown myself in my tears.
P.S. Excellent analysis. I love your videos.
Thank you. The ending is so heartbreaking, every moment of it, every new look at it, we're all still crying over a month later. :(
Not sure that the ox rib scene was quite as you describe, but Crowley for sure uses food and fun to sway Aziraphale at times, although I have yet to see him actually eat anything. Drinks, yup, food not so much. The ox rib scene I think was also the way to mimic Eve's birth to fool Heaven. They both clearly worked together to pull it off, Crowley going to Job's wife and Aziraphale going to Job. I think the scene on the rock was pivotal for both of them.
And I do hear the almost "I love you".... and he clearly knew what that means because he didn't say it to Gabriel.
I said in other place my theory about how Aziraphale might change his mind about Heaven....somehow either he finds it or is shown it (perhaps by a desperate Crowley trying to "rescue" him) Crowley's trial. How horrible would it be for Aziraphale to see exactly how Heaven had treated his Crowley.? Thoughts?
Ooh, I haven't considered that we might see Crowley's trial, and now I want it so much! I subscribe to the theory that most of his memories before the fall were erased, but if there's a recording, Aziraphale should be high enough in the hierarchy now to be able to access it, right?
I do wonder if we will see some sort of trial or fall, or even some part of the battle? I'm sure he'll see something up there about how Crowley was treated, and realize he doesn't need forgiveness, because he never really did anything wrong in the first place! Thank you for sharing your thoughts :)
That sounds like a great idea! I will say I would like Aziraphale to discover this without Crowley’s involvement, but I’d be fine if it was used to show Crowley finally being full honest to Az on that front.
Though I had a thought of how satisfying it could be if it were the Metatron himself who showed Aziraphale the trial or punishment of Crowley; he seems to think that he can plant seeds of disdain in Az’s mind, but I’d love to see him try to push his luck too far and hugely misjudge how Aziraphale would react to Crowley’s reason for falling.
Also I want to see some scenes from the actual war between heaven and hell, but I’m not going to hold my breath.
Sorry for the thought bomb here…
I think Aziraphale will slowly come to understand that he's being used and that he can't change a system that is inherently broken. He seems to be already aware to some content, and he's cooking up a plan, if I interpret his smile at the end right.
I can't remember if there is some info in the book about Crowley eating but i do remember there is this in Genesis
God said to the serpent: “Because you have done this, cursed are you above all livestock and above all beasts of the field; on your belly you shall go, and dust you shall eat all the days of your life."
Could that be why Crowley do not eat? Do food taste like dust to poor Crowley?
Omg, I *looove* your analysis! What a nice parallel you have uncovered there. I will be thinking about this for a while. Thank you for sharing these tasty morsels.
It is, truly, my pleasure! I love making these:)
I think also Azaraphel is about to say I love you after the kiss because i think it was Azaraphels first real reaction that Crowly loves him too and yes i think the scene with the rib and kiss is conectet.❤😊.
The kiss made me stand straight up and burst into tears! Can’t wait for series 3, I love them both so much. I don’t think he thinks saying I love you would be something Aziraphale would feel compelled to do because it was expected of him, I believe he truly loves Crowley and visa versa, but they are bad communicators when it comes to how they feel about each other, unfortunately!
Two television scenes shatter my heart: (1) This one (2) Ten and Rose. Damn you, David Tennant, you frickin' common denominator. Seriously, though, I agree on everything. To expand, Aziraphale has a strong sense of duty as well. I think he very much struggles between his duty to heaven and to Crowley.
Great point, Azirapahle is very driven by duty. And David is great at emotional acting (although so is Michael!) Thank you so much for the lovely comment. :)
@Sendarya I saw you mention this exact thing in a more recent video! Glad I found you! I'm fiending for more of this theorizing 🤣🥴
I think Aziraphale's perception of romance comes from the books he loves so much.
But in Crowley's case, for him romance is represented as two people in the rain under a roof because that is what he and Aziraphale shared in the creation of the stars and the garden of Eden. He was with the person he loves (although he didn't know it) under his wings while it was raining.
This video is amazing. Thank you for decoding a lot of confusing scenes in Good Omens!
I just love your videos, I can’t get enough of them!! Such amazing, in-depth character analyses of both Crowley and Aziraphale!
Very late to this comment, but thank you so much!
i see it that way: the ox-scene is azi realising - OMG this is something that i never had before, this is new and it is fantastic. how could i have been missing out on this??
the kiss has the same effect on azi. through my eyes the kiss is the first time that aziraphale is kissed and he only then realises a complete new level of longing for someone - crowley.
Really enjoy your videos. They give me a lot to think about. Didn't see anyone else mention this so I thought I'd suggest it for your future rewatches of the Companion to Owls--
In your video you asked if Crowley intentionally let the crows bleat like goats. In watching it, it sounds to me like there is a small "miracle" sound when Crowley takes his glasses off a short time before walking away from Aziraphale. I interpret it to mean that just before insisting he wanted to destroy Job's children, Crowley was making it possible for the crows to be slightly unmasked--if Aziraphale was paying attention.
i think the kiss perfectly fits the context Crowley's and Aziraphale relationship developed in. the two have been living on earth for its entire existence and there's no one else, angel or demon, who understands humanity and its value more than them. tangible things/human things have been not only the excuses they used to spend time together (ie lunch at the ritz, 'i'll give you a lift', etc) but also what has helped them, especially Aziraphale, to step out of their preconceived notions of good and evil, and into their own morality. this naturally lead them to realizing (even though Aziraphale still can't accept it fully) that they can only ever be on their own side. so ofc a very human act, a kiss (which does not happen between Gabriel and Beelzebub because their love has a more otherworldly connotation) would be the extreme and final way Crowley would try to express his love for Aziraphale
I think they both started to feel interest one for the other with the past of the time, first thy see each other rarely then slowly slowly they start to see each other more often, they start a sort of Friendship/ relationship of dependency one for the other, because since they are both creatures who belong to a different plain of existence things like feelings are strange for them, and with time they start to developing the feelings, Aziraphale the books and the food, Crowley his car and the plants, thanks to Nina and Maggie Crowley understand what love is, since Nina make comments here and there saying things like “is your Boyfriend?, your partner?, your Lover?, your husband?, him is an adventure?” That make him understand love, since they had to act for make Nina fall in love with Maggie, since Maggie had already a Crush on Nina, but a the time there was Lindsay.
Season two use Nina and Maggie as an Excuse for Make understand to our protagonists what they feel, then there was in the middle Metatron, probably knew what was about to happen, otherwise why propose the role to Aziraphale, since the is only a Principality the third last of the nine class of Angels.
Amazing analysis of their relationship throgh time and about this scene
I really like this analysis, and I appreciate the balanced take. After the season dropped I saw a lot of people being really angry with Aziraphale and accusing him of taking Crowley for granted and things like that... but this analysis, I think, does a really good job exploring how the characters communicate and express their love in different ways based on what works for them and what the other best responds to. And I couldn't agree more.
I agree with this interpretation on Crowley's kiss, too. Ultimately it's a last-ditch effort to get Az to stay because nothing else has worked, and this is all he has left to offer. It's very interesting to consider that, despite Crowley being a demon and the tempter, does not, at least in the TV series, appear to indulge in the earthly delights that Az does. We don't see him eat, and apart from his car and his plants, there's not much he's actually attached to. He has regard for life, but at the end of the day, he could clearly take or leave humans. He's also not very physical --- as you pointed out, any time they touch, it's usually Aziraphale who initiates it.
All this to say I don't think Crowley's first tendency is to show love in such a physical way. I think in the moment he just desperately hoped it was something Az would respond to because earthly pleasures have worked before, and he was out of other options. It's not like he had any real understanding of romance and relationships, after all --- he thought he could just smush two people together like Barbies under a tarp in the rain and call it a day.
It's just too bad he didn't get a chance to see just how much that kiss actually impacted Aziraphale :(
Thanks for the wonderful analysis! Just finished the second season and my heart is just aching! Cannot wait for the final season and hope there will be a happy ending for the both of them
Welcome to the fandom! We, the many broken hearted.💔 We'll get to Season 3, together!
@@Sendarya Thank you! Loved the book and am super happy about how the show turned out
I know I'm late to the party here, but just found your channel and really love your analyses - well researched and balanced! I agree with most of what you've said here - the one thing I'd probably add, which I've not seen anyone mention, is that despite already being upset, in a generally stressful and unpleasant situation, and being basically pounced on with a pretty aggressive kiss, I think it speaks volumes that Aziraphale still responds to some extent. It shows the depth of feeling that's there, for anything to get through at all.
Couldn't agree more, excellent point! The deep feeling is there ❤️
@@Sendarya just had another thought, which I can't believe only just occurred to me. On your point around Aziraphale always being the one to reach out and place a hand on Crowley - that's still true here - other than directly through the kiss, Crowley doesn't touch Aziraphale at all, whereas Aziraphale does reach up and place his hands on Crowley.
This is a fantastic analysis and I could not have enjoyed it more. I've pondered this question a lot and what you say resonates with me. I think there is a connection between the two scenes (and the several other examples of their dynamic that you mention), but I had never thought of it in the way presented here. I wonder -- partly because they are so clueless about love and because they aren't human -- if they feel desire in the same way that humans do. I agree that the kiss was desperate, romantic, and even angry. Again, this was wonderful and I look forward to more!
Thank you, I am so glad you enjoyed it! They do clearly feel desires. I'm not sure if they feel desire that particular way, but it is a very good question! I think that's something Neil might leave open for our interpretation. Also, excellent point about anger. There's something like that going on, for sure!
This analysis was so good! Thank you and thank you Emily. 🥰
I was not emotionally ready for this video😭
OMGOOOOOOD!!! SIIIII!!! ES TOTALMENTE CIERTO, POR ESO LO BESOOOOOO D: LLOROOOOOO
I keep coming back to this analysis. This really is extraordinary. Looking quite forward to seeing your next scene breakdown.
Also, I went back to watch that moment you mention at the conclusion of the series and the end of your analysis of The Kiss. Aziraphale's clipped response went right past me the first (many) times I have watched this scene, but I think you are dead on about the intention, though swallowed back before it really even got out of his mouth.
I'm so glad you find this analysis so compelling. I'm very much enjoying making them :) The half swallowed, half stuttered response is VERY easy to miss.
With character analysis, you never know if you're picking up on deliberate designs the author intended or if you're noticing the author's subconscious writing habits - or the actor's habits. And there's always the possibility that you're reading into coincidental parallels.
I do hope there's pay off for showing Aziraphale and Crowley's individual specific reasons for going against God's plan, more than just providing interesting backstory. Seems like the show makes a lot of effort go into detail about why they 'fell', so I hope it's important to the plot or at least the overall story. Did seeing Crowley go from a happy galaxy builder to a miserable tempter traumatize Azi, making him terrified of questioning God's plan too? Does it mean anything that Crowley questioned God near the beginning, but it takes millennia of tempting Azi with pleasure to get him to break out of his blind obedience? Did Crowley want to kiss Azi or was he just doing what he thought would get him to stay? Is it strange for an angel/demon to like physical touch or would they all like it if they tried it?
I won't believe Azi almost said 'I love you' until it's officially confirmed. Seems like a moment so easy miss that it wouldn't make a lot of sense for it to be super important to the plot. We already know they're in love. I want to know more about the 'I forgive you'. WHAT is he forgiving Crowley for? For kissing him without agreeing to come with him? For trying to manipulate him? Are angels forbidden from kissing? (given the grey area surrounding their genders and sexual orientations, I wonder if Neil would want to poke a hornet's nest by making God's homophobia canon in the GO universe)
Very interesting points. You are correct, character analysis like these are always guessing games. This plays into if a person is a "death of the author" or an "authorial intent" sort of person. Neil himself seems to believe in "death of the author", so that makes me far more comfortable doing analysis on his work, because what matters is what the readers/viewers see and get out of it.
As to why Azi says forgive you, that is something I am working on for an upcoming video (2 weeks, I think). Of course, it will again me my own interpretation, mixed with what others have said, as I do factor the fan community opinions into these essays as much as I can. But I hope you come back and check it out in any case. All opinions are welcome, here, and I really love seeing such a variety of ideas in the comments! People are so creative :)
Thank you so much for your videos: keeping me sane in a rather insane world !
First, thank you too Emily for the encouragement as I think these videos are excellent! I have to process it for a bit to make some comments/observations, but again, excellent as always!
Wonderfull analysis ! I make a tiktok about why this kiss lasts so long, i also draw a parallel with Job's episode and the food part. What if this long kiss was for Aziraphale can take the time to like it, like he take the time to appreciate food ?
I think the "i love you" is a cancel sentence like "I love you but I can't just runaway with you, I need their camps in peace to be happy with you" Because I think that's really what he wants, but also he's struggle by their angel's responsibilies and their opposite nature.
Interesting points. Yes, I do think the kiss lasts so long because Crowley is waiting for Aziraphale to give in and enjoy it, like with the food. But this has a lot more weight of emotion behind it, so it's going to take him a lot longer than the kiss could have lasted. That makes me sad :(
@@Sendarya Yes ! I think also there are so many feels and idea knock over in his head ! He can't take the time to analyse and feels. But I don't think he changed his mind even if he had time to process, his peronnality seems to need ultimatum. Btw i love your work on this video i'll watch your others =)
I really enjoy your videos, thank you for the time and effort you (and your contributors) put into making them.
I firmly believe after the kiss Aziraphale starts to say “I can’t…”
But to what would have followed, I’m not sure. I can’t believe you did that, I can’t run away, I can’t turn my back on the world…
Just found your channel. This is your best video yet, based on good analysis and so well presented - you can really hear the love for the characters. I look forward to future videos!
Thank you so much! Yes, I love all of the characters deeply. Somehow, they even got me to care about Jimbriel, lol.
I watch all their together moments over and over, also this most heartbreaking one. And sometimes a song "Without you Im nothing" (Placebo and David Bowie) comes to my mind. Kind of fits this cruel scene.
Aww, ouch. Yeah it does!
Its obvious that Crowley kissed him to get him to stay. That doesn't mean that it wasn't genuine. However, the urgency of the situation did push Crowley to reveal his feelings sooner and in a different manner to what he would have wanted. What interests me more is Aziraphale's declaration of forgiveness. Its definitely not about the kiss. I think its about Crowley refusing to come with him. After the kiss, he considers everything that Crowley said while asking him to stay. The fact that Crowley was willing to reinforce it with a kiss shows Aziraphale that Crowley's not gonna budge from his resolve. So he forgives Crowley for not coming with him. See, Crowley and Aziraphale want the same thing : to be together. In their minds, the other one is choosing not to be with them. Aziraphale thinks Crowley is choosing Earth and his demonism over him and Crowley thinks that Aziraphale is choosing Heaven and his angelity over him. In their last moments together, Aziraphale is angry but he still can't bring himself to scorn Crowley, so he forgives him for not coming away but is obviously hurt by the choice. All Crowley hears is rejection, so he storms off.
Great dissection of the I forgive you!
@@Sendarya thank you😊
Whoa, that's a great analysis. I've never really noticed what their each preferred love language is, but now that you pointed it out, it's quite obvious! I love that Aziraphale is so often the first to touch Crowley, that's adorable 🥺 I'm stoked for more videos in this series!
Thankyou American person for pronouncing Crowley properly. I keep seeing YT American videos where they say Crauley., I have to wonder if they call the black raven like bird a crau.
I really love this. I think it's spot on, not sure I'd relate it to the ox ribs.
The way I see it, Aziraphale is always saying nice things to Crowley, which he often rejects, and he is always making heart eyes at him. That's how he expresses his feelings.
Crowley, makes grand gestures. He has asked Aziraphale twice in S1 to run away with him, and both times, he just came back when it was rejected. This time, he knows he can't just come back , he's desperate so this is his biggest gesture yet.
Totally agree it's about communicating and it's all about being in love.
Gaiman says this also.
I do try to pronounce things correctly, though I occasionally botch it, lol. Yes, Gaiman has been very clear about it being a love story!
Crowley clearly watches the sort of romances where that end in the love interests bickering (often in the rain) and when words fail them the more dominant partner forcefully kisses the resistant partner.
In fiction this often releases all the built up tension, makes them drop the argument and confess their love and they decide love is more important thanks to the fight and forgive each other.
I think Good Omens is trying to show that trope would actually be quite hurtful to both parties. If I remember correctly a lot of fans wanted Crowley to just force a kiss in the season one gazebo scene (probably because it’s easier to portray than these two suddenly having effective communication skills)
Crowley had been harmed by thinking that’s an acceptable way to communicate his feelings which would drive most people away.
Az is hurt because he was kissed without his consent forcefully without warning or his own chance to express his feelings.
Crowley has pinned Az to the wall before so he had no reason to anticipate it being a kiss and not an attack which is still kind of is.
I’m curious as to how you would know all that or how these 2 opposing parties would be in such a situation. But I agree that that trope is unlikable.
“Crowley had been harmed”? Not sure what that means
Fans/shippers are more likely to ruin art nowadays because of the maker of the series bowing down to them. Because yeah it may not be necessarily the standard but I do believe it is increasing in occurrence.
You are so damn right thank you for this masterpiece ❤
No one really talks about this, and I can't really blame them because I only really noticed on my 4th rewatch or so, but, look at Aziraphale as he's ascending to heaven in the credits. On the left, Crowley is driving sad, but almost stoic in his understanding he has failed. But then there's Azi on the right, who is literally going through every possible human emotion processing what just happened. And I don't think he's processing his emotion, or the second coming, I think he's processing the kiss.
You are right, he's going through a lot on that lift. I like that idea! I've actually got a little mini video coming later today that explores that as one of the possibilities. So, you think the smiles is him realizing what the kiss means? Or something else about the kiss? I'm curious to hear more!
I think the first time Aziraphale actually rejects another offer of a worldly gift/ temptation was when Aziraphale joins Crowley at the French restaurant - which is a weird scene - I'd like a whole analysis of that by itself. Crowley does say Have a glass? and Aziraphale says I'm at work. I kind of wonder though if he had taken the glass of wine if Crowley would have started a conversation about Did you know Nina thought we were together? Are we together? And actually had that conversation they needed to have. I don't know why, I can picture that. I also think it's a weird scene where Crowley - decides to go day drink about his feeling about Aziraphale and ends up talking about his fears with Gabriel. - And then THAT scene ends with him being really sweet to Gabriel!?
That is a really fascinating scene, I agree! You're right, he does reject the offer there, though he still sits and chats for a bit. That would be a fascinating scene to analyze! I've added it to my (ever growing!) list, thank you!
I feel like Crowley had felt that way for quite a while but was scared Aziraphale might run away if he tried to get closer, at the end Crowley realized aziraphale was leaving him anyway so it was kind of a nothing to lose move
Love your name @HufflePorg
❤️❤️❤️ Nothing to lose does seem like exactly what Crowley was thinking at that point.
@@Sendarya thanks ❤️ combo of Harry potter (don’t support the author) and Star Wars
Your analysis is awesome & amazingly thought out and summarized. And presented so wondefully. Kudos to you and your hard work & time to pull these together. You are so right about all of this. I was waiting for you to mention that the Metatron used a page out of Crowley's book by bringing Aziraphale coffee, saying he'd consumed things too, and I think (though I'll have to go back and look), patting him on the back or taking him by the arm or putting his arm around his shoulder. I've watched like 4 videos in a row & I love your idea about part of Crowley being in Aziraphale at the end. These two actors excel at the subtleties of expression & imitating each other. And it makes perfect sense...Crowley offering himself, whole heartedly, to his angel and accidentally leaving his "heart" with him (and to be able to continue protecting & rescuing him) is completely believable (for a fictional story, lol). Also wondering if when you say they can equal God or confront her, I wonder if it may be saving her from Metatron's plans (like we've seen in other fiction). Or her ineffable plan being completed by them creating together the new heaven on earth, really meaning earth without heaven (or hell). And the left/right analysis is so lovely...the writers, directors, actors, etc are such geniuses. And thank you for presenting it so well. I'd hadn't picked up on it consciously but I know it played into the subconscious message I got when watching. I can't compliment you enough. My english teacher, the most excellent of the old school type, would have loved your analyses! A+
Aziraphale is conflicted because of identity. Angels are not allowed to indulge in human-like love without resigning as Gabriel did. Indeed Gabriel had to completely lose his identity before being able to do a new thing. Aziraphale was more comfortable with the idea of Crowley changing his identity and re-becoming an angel than he is of changing his idea of himself.
wow this is an amazing analysis i never connected the two scenes before❤
Thank you! I'm really glad you enjoyed it.
Who knows that they don't talk to each other is a lie, because they have a plan (maybe not at first, but Aziraphale told Crowley later). If it is true, I hope they talk again soon, even if it is only to avoid the New Apocalypse (while they fix their relationship). Either way, no doubt that they will be nervous.