llywela | "I like to think it's because of my perky nipples."

So, is fandom still squealing over New Show? You betcha!

Okay, so you know how I regularly say 'this is my longest episode recap ever'? This time I really, really mean it. Man, this episode is an absolute gold mine for meta! So much tying together of old plotlines and establishing of new. Fabulous stuff.

So I'm not going to tell you how many pages this hit in the end. Just put the kettle on before settling down to read, those of you brave enough to venture on! And herein find much pondering of every scene in the episode, from the moment Dean wakes up in his coffin to that final, mind-blowing declaration of Castiel's, and covering all points in between. Such as: a few practicalities around Dean's illegal burial, the nature of miraculous healing on the show, Bobby's reaction to Dean's death and resurrection, Sam's reaction to Dean's death and resurrection, Bobby's relationship with the brothers, Bobby's awesomeness in general, narrative decision-making behind Dean's lack of memory, burial versus cremation, the sharing of clothes and just what has Sam done with Dean's personal effects, Ruby and Sam's new relationship, two-sided hugging, the Ruby conundrum, the ethics of sharing living space with a demon, the impact of Sam's grief and guilt, how very much Sam takes after his father, the use of humour to drive home certain points, deception and manipulation, the fracture of the brothers' relationship, Pam and psychics in general, brotherly protectiveness, Castiel and communication, Sam and his powers, Ruby's intentions, Sam's downward descent, the nature of angels, and what it means for Dean to be touched by an angel.

Among other things.

Whew! Man, this episode provided enough food for thought to last the whole season!

I also included lots and lots and lots of screenshots. Because...well, because the pretty was irresistible! Screencaps taken from Screencap Paradise and