This One 13 Reasons Why Detail May Completely Change How You See the Story
Many of us are still reeling over 13 Reasons Why, which takes on issues of suicide, sexual assault, bullying, and harassment without attempting to gloss over any of the heartbreaking aftermath. But now, one small detail that you likely missed may completely change the way you see the devastating story.
Note: Spoilers ahead, but this is super important for anyone who has watched the show or is planning to watch it any time in the future.
The issues featured in 13 Reasons Why are certainly not easy to grapple with, but the show is being hailed as incredibly important for one reason: These are the sorts of issues teenagers (and adults too!) face in real life. That’s why some who have watched the show voiced concerns that those struggling with suicidal thoughts might be inspired to follow Hannah’s lead, not only killing themselves, but seeing a chance for a sort of revenge.
However, a new detail from the show will not only change the way you see the entire story, but it may in fact give hope to anyone who is struggling themselves or hoping to help someone in their lives that may be in a dark place.
In the final episode of the first season, each of the people Hannah named in her tapes has been subpoenaed in an investigation into her death. While we may have been focused on the possibility of some sort of justice, there is another detail that was much less noticeable, but so incredibly vital.
The time stamp on the testimony recordings is November 10, 2017. Because we know that the events that led to Hannah’s suicide happened either during or after her summer break and that her death occurred close to the aftermath that we see in the show, if this is all happening in real time, then none of the terrible events, including Hannah’s passing, have happened yet.
This sets up the story in an entirely new way. Instead of watching something that has already tragically happened, we’re seeing something that hasn’t actually occurred yet. Though there’s no way that we can alter Hannah’s path, this gives viewers a sense of hope. Hope that they can change things in their own lives and those they care for. There’s still time.
And that’s the overall (and incredibly powerful) message of this series: These cycles can be changed. We can speak up for ourselves and each other.
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text the Crisis Text Line at 741-741.
Does this new detail change the way you see/feel about 13 Reasons Why? Let us know @BritandCo!
(h/t Teen Vogue; photos via Mike Coppola/Getty, Netflix)
