“The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease forever to be able to do it.”
-J.M. Barrie
Notice the images in 3×19 “The Once and Future Flash.” I was just thinking about these shots of two very different Barrys, one from the present and one of the future.
Our Barry, present Barry stands like Peter Pan. Who is Peter Pan? A symbolism for lost boys, youth and the ability to never grow up. Our Barry does this stance often, whether he is aware of it or not, it’s a tell, it explains his character thoroughly. His head even tilts to the side out of uncertainty. Why doesn’t he trust himself enough? The psychology of this is complex and I love it. I can’t imagine Tom Cavanagh might have thought of this when he directed the episode. It seemed like something he wouldn’t avoid pointing out.
Now Future Barry, do you see the hips pulled back, his back muscles protruding outward? The balance of his back to the ground? He is standing like he is in control, like he owns his life no matter what. Even though he is a part of a team, he is a strong man capable of getting up after being knocked down. He is standing like The Flash would, he’s standing like a man ready for whatever is coming next. Despite his arms being crossed, a sign of distance (no doubt from pain and loss), he is a man willing to help. This is a superhero stance, probably the most popular in all comic lore.
I’m glad Tom allowed him to stand like this, it made me proud to know one day, no matter what Barry has been through and what he faces, he will overcome it. Which tells me there is life after Iris dies, believe it or not, the show does go on when love interests die.
Also guys, notice in that scene as well, Future Barry barely smiles, of course this has to do with the pain and loss he has endured and his inability to cope in a healthy way. In truth, the reason why for that is Future!Barry is keeping emotion out the situation and choosing to focus on what’s important.
What I see is a man with more tact and assurance than our present Barry has. He is smart, aware, thinks of every side of the equation. He’s more akin to Oliver’s mindset, one could say he’s finally learned how to be a superhero and despite all he’s lost, he can survive losing Iris, all he has to do is become stronger, both in mind and body which will take time and experience if he allows it himself.
What’s ironic is Present!Barry taught him this, now going into the future, our Barry needs to embrace what he preaches to Future!Barry and finally stop thinking on impulse.
I hope the writers are willing to pursue Barry more in this direction. What I hate is for characters to remain where they are, making the same mistakes, never learning a damn thing, becoming selfish and self-serving. In essence, never growing, perpetually sad and weak by choice. Wouldn’t you like to see a more confident Barry?
Just an observation, what do you guys think?
Snowbarry Talk 