'Dickinson' Season 2: Fans frantically demand more of Emily and Sue's story, the most authentic thing about the Apple TV show
Apple TV premiered its big shows on Friday, November 1, and despite the critical reviews, fans seem to have a great love for them. 'Dickinson', for example, has already become a fan favorite, if not for the storytelling that betrays an identity crisis, then for the talented Hailee Steinfield, who portrays the titular poet Emily Dickinson and the chemistry she is able to create with her on-screen love Sue (Ella Hunt).
As someone who binged on the series, I can safely say that the portrayal of Emily and Sue's potentially fictionalized secret romance is the most authentic thing about the Apple TV show. Oftentimes, because of the modernized manner of speaking and the use of modern music, primarily rap, we forget that 'Dickinson' is a period piece and that the people around her, especially her family, aren't meant to really be caricatures.
The viewing experience was interrupted by the reminders of social injustices of the time and Emily's own plight at not being able to learn like she wants to, and write like she wants to. However, the one thing that the show has been consistent with is the romance between Emily and Sue, and more importantly, it feels true to the time and the compromises they had to make at the time. The few stolen moments between them are frantic and tender for us too, and the unfairness of having to hide their love is frustrating for us too.
The show does have potential, but if it were not for Emily and Sue, I probably would not have wanted Season 2 for 'Dickinson' as much as I do right now. In the immortal words of one particular fan YenYen Lang: "They're so in love with each other that i can't handle my emotions! i know it's kinda base on true events but why can't they be together?!!! i was so into #Dickinson so much and i need season 2 already! [sic]"
Apple TV is yet to reveal how many seasons they are planning for the show, but based on what we know about Emily Dickinson's life, there is so much more to explore on the show and we cannot wait for it.