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404 Inklings #1
Love That Journey for Me: The Queer Revolution of Schitt's Creek
Love That Journey For Me dives deep into the cultural sensation of Canadian comedy-drama Schitt’s Creek. Considering the fusion of existing sitcom traditions, references and tropes, this Inkling analyses the nuance of the show and its surrounding cultural and societal impact as a queer revolution.
By discussing how the show reshapes LGBTQ+ narratives from the crafting of the town itself, and celebratory influences including Cabaret, to how writer-creator Dan Levy utilised and subverted expectations throughout his work, Emily Garside will showcase how one TV show became a watershed moment in queer representation and gay relationships on screen.
Part analysis of Schitt’s Creek’s importance, part homage to a cultural landmark, this is a show that – in the words of David Rose himself – needs to be celebrated. This book is that celebration.
This book is unofficial, and unaffiliated with Schitt’s Creek and its brand.
By discussing how the show reshapes LGBTQ+ narratives from the crafting of the town itself, and celebratory influences including Cabaret, to how writer-creator Dan Levy utilised and subverted expectations throughout his work, Emily Garside will showcase how one TV show became a watershed moment in queer representation and gay relationships on screen.
Part analysis of Schitt’s Creek’s importance, part homage to a cultural landmark, this is a show that – in the words of David Rose himself – needs to be celebrated. This book is that celebration.
This book is unofficial, and unaffiliated with Schitt’s Creek and its brand.
Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2021
19 people are currently reading
1218 people want to read
About the author
Emily Garside
6 books25 followersEmily Garside is a writer of many kinds as well as a professional dog Mum. Emily spent a number of years as an academic and lecturer, beginning with her PhD on theatrical responses to the AIDS crisis, and the evolution of LGBTQ theatre. Currently, she is working on two books related to her research. She now specialises in Queer Culture Writing. As a journalist, she is a regular contributor for The Queer Review and has written for American Theatre, Slate, BBC and The Stage. @EmiGarside
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
July 19, 2023
‘it isn’t a fiction to imagine a loving, supportive father to a queer child. Johnny Roses of the world exist.’
July 6, 2021
'It's a really easy life lesson, then: if you make space where everyone, including queer people, can be their authentic selves, then this filters through and lets every be their best self. Though the conversation here is about Schitt's Creek and its power as a revolutionary queer piece of culture, what this highlights is the idea of spaces where people can be their authentic selves actually benefits everyone.'
A MUST READ for any fan of Schitt's Creek!!
Some times a TV show comes along at just the right time, the same can be said for this glorious little book. I came to Schitt's Creek pretty late. While the world was being consumed with everything Covid and we were constantly in and out of lockdowns the beautiful show that is Schitt's Creek was my comfort blanket and the perfect escape. From my first watch through I pretty sure it's been on a constant loop in my house ever since.
You know that warm and fuzzy feeling you get while watching the show? This book provides that same feeling. Many moments in this book made me super emotional, especially when talking about the concept of found family within the show and seeing Queer characters getting their happy endings. I loved how even though this book focuses on the Queer elements of the show it showed how Queer Elements also involve the "straight" characters, the concept of found family for example the Rose family not only adopting Patrick as one of their own but also Stevie. On a similar note the sections about Alexis' growth within the show (I might be slightly bias as I think Alexis is one of the best characters in TV in recent years) and how the whole town became her support system. I'm kind of obsessed with the chapters on Cabaret, as a queer musical nut it spoke to my soul of every level possible, could (and would) read a whole book that was purely that.
All the sections in this book were outstanding from the mentions of the wardrobe & wig choices, musical choices and the show being a safe space. It's a glorious masterpiece. Not only is the town Schitt's Creek a safe space to be Queer but the show for a lot of people is a comfort and that safe space to constantly turns to.
Written so beautifully that you feel as if you and Emily Garside are sat in a booth together at the Café Tropical having coffee and gushing about the show. I absorbed it in one sitting and I will no doubt return to this over and over again. This book is a gorgeous celebration of a show that changed the world and will change the landscape of tv for good.
A MUST READ for any fan of Schitt's Creek!!
Some times a TV show comes along at just the right time, the same can be said for this glorious little book. I came to Schitt's Creek pretty late. While the world was being consumed with everything Covid and we were constantly in and out of lockdowns the beautiful show that is Schitt's Creek was my comfort blanket and the perfect escape. From my first watch through I pretty sure it's been on a constant loop in my house ever since.
You know that warm and fuzzy feeling you get while watching the show? This book provides that same feeling. Many moments in this book made me super emotional, especially when talking about the concept of found family within the show and seeing Queer characters getting their happy endings. I loved how even though this book focuses on the Queer elements of the show it showed how Queer Elements also involve the "straight" characters, the concept of found family for example the Rose family not only adopting Patrick as one of their own but also Stevie. On a similar note the sections about Alexis' growth within the show (I might be slightly bias as I think Alexis is one of the best characters in TV in recent years) and how the whole town became her support system. I'm kind of obsessed with the chapters on Cabaret, as a queer musical nut it spoke to my soul of every level possible, could (and would) read a whole book that was purely that.
All the sections in this book were outstanding from the mentions of the wardrobe & wig choices, musical choices and the show being a safe space. It's a glorious masterpiece. Not only is the town Schitt's Creek a safe space to be Queer but the show for a lot of people is a comfort and that safe space to constantly turns to.
Written so beautifully that you feel as if you and Emily Garside are sat in a booth together at the Café Tropical having coffee and gushing about the show. I absorbed it in one sitting and I will no doubt return to this over and over again. This book is a gorgeous celebration of a show that changed the world and will change the landscape of tv for good.
February 18, 2023
I wanted to love it. I really, really wanted to love it.
Some thoughts:
-The tone is less academic than I thought it might be, which isn't a bad thing. It reads a bit like editorials that I would be assigned for some of my media studies classes. It's easily digestible, but it doesn't really make me think about the show in a new way. A lot of what the author talks about is fairly evident upon a first watch. It also doesn't really explore how Schitt's Creek's queerness has impacted culture at large, aside from in a handful of places (the billboard stands out).
-The topics are interesting. I specifically liked reading about how the town as a whole reacts to difference as well as the history of Cabaret.
-There are a TON of editorial mistakes. This probably would have been a four-star review, but the mistakes are ridiculous. There's some grammar, which I don't mind horrifically, but there's also an instance in which the same sentence is repeated twice in a row (not for dramatic effect) and another in which the title of the show is misspelled. These seem like mistakes that should have been easy to catch.
Overall, this isn't a challenging read, and it covers a topic I have a great interest in both as a fan of the show and as a former communication-studies student. I love revisiting iconic moments from the show and reminding myself of how much work Dan Levy did through it. I did not, however, love the lazy editing. I think I would have also liked to have seen some references to other writers or academia regarding the show.
Some thoughts:
-The tone is less academic than I thought it might be, which isn't a bad thing. It reads a bit like editorials that I would be assigned for some of my media studies classes. It's easily digestible, but it doesn't really make me think about the show in a new way. A lot of what the author talks about is fairly evident upon a first watch. It also doesn't really explore how Schitt's Creek's queerness has impacted culture at large, aside from in a handful of places (the billboard stands out).
-The topics are interesting. I specifically liked reading about how the town as a whole reacts to difference as well as the history of Cabaret.
-There are a TON of editorial mistakes. This probably would have been a four-star review, but the mistakes are ridiculous. There's some grammar, which I don't mind horrifically, but there's also an instance in which the same sentence is repeated twice in a row (not for dramatic effect) and another in which the title of the show is misspelled. These seem like mistakes that should have been easy to catch.
Overall, this isn't a challenging read, and it covers a topic I have a great interest in both as a fan of the show and as a former communication-studies student. I love revisiting iconic moments from the show and reminding myself of how much work Dan Levy did through it. I did not, however, love the lazy editing. I think I would have also liked to have seen some references to other writers or academia regarding the show.
July 2, 2021
Seeing as I'm writing this having stayed up too late reading the whole of this book at once, and I was already a big fan of Schitt's Creek, this review might be a little different to normal. Love That Journey For Me is a bitesize look into TV series Schitt's Creek, exploring its portrayal of queerness across relationships, fashion, culture, and safety and thinking about the impact of it at its particular point in TV history.
The first book in 404 Ink's Inklings series, this is a light and yet also deep short book that feels like a real work of love. Garside analyses the character arcs, tropes, and subversions across the six seasons and draws out potential references and the importance of them. For me, one of the best parts was the chapter looking at Cabaret and the role (possible pun unintended) it plays within Schitt's Creek, as well as how Schitt's Creek presents a particular production of Cabaret. I also liked the situating of the show within the history of LGBTQ representation on mainstream US/UK TV, really bringing home the point that the show is meant to be a town that doesn't recreate the prejudices of real life, but shows a different world.
It's a hard book to put down once you're reading it, both if you're a fan of the show and want to think a little more about it and if you like reading things about pop culture where you can really feel the author's care for the work. Not something I'm used to reading in such a format (the small size really works and I think being readable in one sitting is great), so it's great to see it published as well.
The first book in 404 Ink's Inklings series, this is a light and yet also deep short book that feels like a real work of love. Garside analyses the character arcs, tropes, and subversions across the six seasons and draws out potential references and the importance of them. For me, one of the best parts was the chapter looking at Cabaret and the role (possible pun unintended) it plays within Schitt's Creek, as well as how Schitt's Creek presents a particular production of Cabaret. I also liked the situating of the show within the history of LGBTQ representation on mainstream US/UK TV, really bringing home the point that the show is meant to be a town that doesn't recreate the prejudices of real life, but shows a different world.
It's a hard book to put down once you're reading it, both if you're a fan of the show and want to think a little more about it and if you like reading things about pop culture where you can really feel the author's care for the work. Not something I'm used to reading in such a format (the small size really works and I think being readable in one sitting is great), so it's great to see it published as well.
April 1, 2024
I’m so glad someone was able to reach into my brain, grab all my thoughts about this perfect show, and put them into words better than I ever could. Highly recommend to anyone who has been forced to listen to me ramble about Schitt’s Creek.
June 29, 2021
An excellent short book for all those who loved Schitt's Creek and are interested in queer narratives and representations. Garside takes us through the important symbols of queerness in the beloved Canadian sitcom with chapters on fashion, music, chosen family, and more. Well-written. I read it in one sitting and was very touched till the very end. Best wishes, warmest regards.
July 7, 2021
This is such an amazing wee book about how important Schitts Creek is to queer people and what it is doing for queer culture and representation. Highly recommend and it made me love the show even more.
July 8, 2021
I came to the Schitt's Creek relatively early (not when it was still underground, but, early enough for it to explode and take over the world's (and mine) GIF use on Twitter).
Where many people had to get into the series and even some really had to make an effort to try again after the great reviews after giving up, I loved it from the very first episode. I was hooked. I watched the first series on my own, but convinced my husband to watch it with me, so watched the first season again, with him, and it, to me, was even better the second time around.
Perhaps I never really knew what I loved about the story, I couldn't articulate it, until I read this little gem by Dr (!) Emily Garside. I loved it, and I told people who said that the 'characters weren't likeable', that that was the point, it was a journey of self-discovery, of self-acceptance and finding out what really matters to them in life. I also loved the normalness of queer lifestyles and how it was all a lovely thing, but I didn't know how to articulate it until I read this book, which had me crying in the first two chapters. Specifically, talking about how Alexis found her purpose once she left behind 'the people whose only currency is judgement', and perhaps that included herself as well, if I relate it to myself.
I didn't know how relatable the characters, each in their own little and BIG ways, were to so many aspects of so many peoples' lives, including and/or especially my own.
This book is a true celebration of a series that had way a bigger impact on me than perhaps any 'comedy with 25 minute episodes' should have, but here we are.
Emily's writing style is fluent and passionate, and it makes you feel what she feels about the book in a way that isn't preach-ey. This is not a plain and simple fan-zine booklet, this is a rigourous celebration of a show that everyone should see, and then read this little pink book that everyone should read.
Where many people had to get into the series and even some really had to make an effort to try again after the great reviews after giving up, I loved it from the very first episode. I was hooked. I watched the first series on my own, but convinced my husband to watch it with me, so watched the first season again, with him, and it, to me, was even better the second time around.
Perhaps I never really knew what I loved about the story, I couldn't articulate it, until I read this little gem by Dr (!) Emily Garside. I loved it, and I told people who said that the 'characters weren't likeable', that that was the point, it was a journey of self-discovery, of self-acceptance and finding out what really matters to them in life. I also loved the normalness of queer lifestyles and how it was all a lovely thing, but I didn't know how to articulate it until I read this book, which had me crying in the first two chapters. Specifically, talking about how Alexis found her purpose once she left behind 'the people whose only currency is judgement', and perhaps that included herself as well, if I relate it to myself.
I didn't know how relatable the characters, each in their own little and BIG ways, were to so many aspects of so many peoples' lives, including and/or especially my own.
This book is a true celebration of a series that had way a bigger impact on me than perhaps any 'comedy with 25 minute episodes' should have, but here we are.
Emily's writing style is fluent and passionate, and it makes you feel what she feels about the book in a way that isn't preach-ey. This is not a plain and simple fan-zine booklet, this is a rigourous celebration of a show that everyone should see, and then read this little pink book that everyone should read.
January 18, 2025
"To those people who want to mock it, saying it's 'only TV,' who tell me to 'grow up' and stop wasting time on things like this: I say that it might just be TV, but it matters to a lot of people, it matters to me ... because finding something that speaks to you, whatever it is, always changes you, even in a small way."
Exactly this. I really enjoyed this book, it laid out everything I love so much about this show. I particularly loved the conversation on the wardrobe, and the chapter on Johnny and his relationships with his family. A really great read for anyone who has ever felt seen by this show.
Also, reading this made me realize that I definitely had enough thoughts about Schitt's Creek over the years to fill a book.
Exactly this. I really enjoyed this book, it laid out everything I love so much about this show. I particularly loved the conversation on the wardrobe, and the chapter on Johnny and his relationships with his family. A really great read for anyone who has ever felt seen by this show.
Also, reading this made me realize that I definitely had enough thoughts about Schitt's Creek over the years to fill a book.
August 16, 2022
"The theme of unconditional love, healing and family are all at the heart of the show. It also challenges conventional views of what love and family looks like but makes it very simple: the people who let you be your best self"
September 26, 2021
A great short read which takes an academic approach to the queer theory behind darling of my heart, Schitt's Creek. I polished this off in a day and found it to be a perfect primer for queer representation in TV shows (an area I would like to read more about in future).
As this is an Inkling by 404 Ink it's just around 100 pages and so is ideal to get some ideas percolating while also expressing the clear devotion the author has for the show. Schitt's Creek die-hards will love it as it teeters on the edge of a deep-dive and showcases a vast array of knowledge of each episode. This is a beautiful love letter to a special show, and it made me very happy.
Time for a rewatch!
As this is an Inkling by 404 Ink it's just around 100 pages and so is ideal to get some ideas percolating while also expressing the clear devotion the author has for the show. Schitt's Creek die-hards will love it as it teeters on the edge of a deep-dive and showcases a vast array of knowledge of each episode. This is a beautiful love letter to a special show, and it made me very happy.
Time for a rewatch!
August 11, 2021
Full disclosure, I was predisposed to love this book because I love the show Schitt's Creek. That said, Garside brings to light the ways SC is so much more than a show. I knew that it was different while I watched it for the way it portrayed David and Patrick's relationship, but Garside articulates that and other facets of the show that are impactful to progress in representation for the queer community so well. The book was a joy to read, it felt like returning to a favorite cozy chair and gave me a deeper appreciation for the show.
December 9, 2021
**update - changing to a 5 in hindsight as I just remember pure joy when reading this book!**
Gorgeous book and so glad it exists. Only reason for not giving 5 stars is that I was continually distracted by extra/missing words in sentences (and at one point a sentence was repeated twice and Schitt's was spelt wrong!). I'm easily distracted by typos and it definitely needed a proofreader! Recommend this for any Schitt's Creek fan though and can't wait to read more of Garside's writing.
Gorgeous book and so glad it exists. Only reason for not giving 5 stars is that I was continually distracted by extra/missing words in sentences (and at one point a sentence was repeated twice and Schitt's was spelt wrong!). I'm easily distracted by typos and it definitely needed a proofreader! Recommend this for any Schitt's Creek fan though and can't wait to read more of Garside's writing.
July 20, 2021
I love Schitt's Creek, and I love the idea of this book. Unfortunately, these essays needed at least two more rounds of significant revision before they appeared in print. There’s so much promise here (and the chapter on Cabaret is particularly worth mentioning), but it falls short without that extra care and polish.
August 1, 2021
my main gripe with this book was that it marketed itself as a deep dive whereas i would have called it an introduction because it ultimately did not deliver on what i thought it promised. however, for a more general audience and an introductory text: good
June 28, 2024
shameless plug of my article about the importance of david rose, his pansexuality, and what dan levy did with schitt’s creek: “‘my son is pansexual’ — a love letter to david rose”
this little book is so up my alley in every way: pop culture nonfiction, queer, schitt’s creek, written by a pan person. need i say more?
this book not only discusses david (and his pansexuality and coming out), patrick (and his gayness and coming out), and their relationship (and happy ending), but also parental acceptance, johnny as everyone’s father figure, moira as a queer fashion icon, the town as a queer safe space, personal growth and being your best self, and above all else, the show being about love and hope. i really loved the talk about stevie’s journey leading her to remain in schitt’s creek, rather than follow the tv narrative of happiness and success inherently equaling moving on to bigger and better things (leaving a small town for a glamorous big city job). even her not having a romantic partner or kids at the end of the show, which the author rightly points out as not falling into the trap of her being portrayed as a failure or a sad cat lady. same with the recognition of the importance of david and patrick deciding to not have kids, especially that patrick always assumed he would have kids one day and reassuring david that them not having kids is okay because plans change and kids aren’t a condition for a lasting (endgame, if you will) love. the fact that the person who did want kids is the one to change their mind instead of the nearly always other way around is fucking groundbreaking, to be perfectly dramatic.
while i love the acknowledgement and discussion of david’s pansexuality, i am a little...underwhelmed? disappointed? with how the discussion played out. i appreciate the recognition of the little moments that affirm david’s pansexuality, such as the mentions of his past lovers of various genders scattered throughout the show, as it shows that “in marrying patrick, he isn’t erasing his pansexual identity.” he wasn’t straight when with a woman, he isn’t gay now that he’s with a man, and his past with people other than men doesn’t just go away now that’s he in a loving, committed relationship with patrick. however, there’s a moment during this discussion that the author randomly started using “pan/bisexual” and “bi/pan” even though the character in question is pansexual, not bisexual, not both. people do this often, but it never gets any less frustrating.
it’s interesting to see david’s “i like the wine, and not the label” being referred to as an “update” to evelyn waugh’s brideshead revisited, as a “number of wine metaphors run throughout, with anthony blance saying, ‘i know your tastes,’ while ordering wine for charles ryder, whose sexuality is ambiguous across the novel.” because i’ve never seen anyone mention that in all the talk about that quote. however, the author says that line has “understandably been adopted by queer people of all labels because it nearly fits any number of sexual and gender expressions” and it’s frustrating that people tend to stress the importance of “i like the wine, and not the label” by saying it’s relatable or applicable to people of all sexualities. while i’m not one to gatekeep who can relate to any given queer character, this line is specifically referencing/describing pansexuality. why isn’t that enough for it to be regarded as important? for it to have impact?
given the title of the chapter that discusses david’s pansexuality being “wine, not the label” i thought it would be all about david’s pansexuality or even just partially an in-depth analysis of his pansexuality and the impact and importance he has among pansexual people. silly me. there’s just this overall vibe that the broad appeal/relatability of david, patricks’s gayness/coming out, and the overall m/m relationship is more significant or worthy of discussion than the importance of david specifically being pansexual and what that means to pansexual people specifically.
other notes: as someone who doesn’t apply the terms straight, gay, and lesbian to relationships/romance (as in, “straight relationship” and “lesbian romance”), it’s annoying that the author refers to the show as having a “gay love story” and “gay romance” and “gay happy ending” like the word queer is right there. the author says the gilmore girls revival made michel gay, but i don’t think his sexuality is ever stated. so again. queer is right there. degrassi is mentioned in a section about positive queer representation, specifically mentioning adam torres as a trans characters, despite the fact that adam meets an “untimely, unhappy, and unnecessary end,” which the author slams media for giving queer characters.
content/trigger warnings; mentions or discussions of covid pandemic, queerphobia, queer death in media, misogyny, amatonormativity,
this little book is so up my alley in every way: pop culture nonfiction, queer, schitt’s creek, written by a pan person. need i say more?
this book not only discusses david (and his pansexuality and coming out), patrick (and his gayness and coming out), and their relationship (and happy ending), but also parental acceptance, johnny as everyone’s father figure, moira as a queer fashion icon, the town as a queer safe space, personal growth and being your best self, and above all else, the show being about love and hope. i really loved the talk about stevie’s journey leading her to remain in schitt’s creek, rather than follow the tv narrative of happiness and success inherently equaling moving on to bigger and better things (leaving a small town for a glamorous big city job). even her not having a romantic partner or kids at the end of the show, which the author rightly points out as not falling into the trap of her being portrayed as a failure or a sad cat lady. same with the recognition of the importance of david and patrick deciding to not have kids, especially that patrick always assumed he would have kids one day and reassuring david that them not having kids is okay because plans change and kids aren’t a condition for a lasting (endgame, if you will) love. the fact that the person who did want kids is the one to change their mind instead of the nearly always other way around is fucking groundbreaking, to be perfectly dramatic.
while i love the acknowledgement and discussion of david’s pansexuality, i am a little...underwhelmed? disappointed? with how the discussion played out. i appreciate the recognition of the little moments that affirm david’s pansexuality, such as the mentions of his past lovers of various genders scattered throughout the show, as it shows that “in marrying patrick, he isn’t erasing his pansexual identity.” he wasn’t straight when with a woman, he isn’t gay now that he’s with a man, and his past with people other than men doesn’t just go away now that’s he in a loving, committed relationship with patrick. however, there’s a moment during this discussion that the author randomly started using “pan/bisexual” and “bi/pan” even though the character in question is pansexual, not bisexual, not both. people do this often, but it never gets any less frustrating.
it’s interesting to see david’s “i like the wine, and not the label” being referred to as an “update” to evelyn waugh’s brideshead revisited, as a “number of wine metaphors run throughout, with anthony blance saying, ‘i know your tastes,’ while ordering wine for charles ryder, whose sexuality is ambiguous across the novel.” because i’ve never seen anyone mention that in all the talk about that quote. however, the author says that line has “understandably been adopted by queer people of all labels because it nearly fits any number of sexual and gender expressions” and it’s frustrating that people tend to stress the importance of “i like the wine, and not the label” by saying it’s relatable or applicable to people of all sexualities. while i’m not one to gatekeep who can relate to any given queer character, this line is specifically referencing/describing pansexuality. why isn’t that enough for it to be regarded as important? for it to have impact?
given the title of the chapter that discusses david’s pansexuality being “wine, not the label” i thought it would be all about david’s pansexuality or even just partially an in-depth analysis of his pansexuality and the impact and importance he has among pansexual people. silly me. there’s just this overall vibe that the broad appeal/relatability of david, patricks’s gayness/coming out, and the overall m/m relationship is more significant or worthy of discussion than the importance of david specifically being pansexual and what that means to pansexual people specifically.
other notes: as someone who doesn’t apply the terms straight, gay, and lesbian to relationships/romance (as in, “straight relationship” and “lesbian romance”), it’s annoying that the author refers to the show as having a “gay love story” and “gay romance” and “gay happy ending” like the word queer is right there. the author says the gilmore girls revival made michel gay, but i don’t think his sexuality is ever stated. so again. queer is right there. degrassi is mentioned in a section about positive queer representation, specifically mentioning adam torres as a trans characters, despite the fact that adam meets an “untimely, unhappy, and unnecessary end,” which the author slams media for giving queer characters.
content/trigger warnings; mentions or discussions of covid pandemic, queerphobia, queer death in media, misogyny, amatonormativity,
October 15, 2021
I didn't watch Schitt's Creek until very recently (and then watched all of it over the course of a few weeks, finishing a week ago) and to be completely honest, part of the reason I put it on was because of this book. (The other part was I needed a background show to watch while knitting.) I wanted to watch the show that would prompt somebody to write a book-shaped essay about it.
I ordered the book as I was wrapping up the show, unsure of what the hell I'd just been through - I didn't even like it very much in the beginning, but by the end I was not only invested, but deeply conscious that I'd just watched a show that was unlike any other I've ever watched. I've spent the past week mulling it over, trying to put little mental pins into bits and pieces of it, trying to make sense of the full picture.
I could've just saved myself the trouble and read this straight away, but it only arrived in the post today, so. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I enjoyed this book-shaped essay as much as I did the show. It puts into words some of the murky thoughts I've been having, and contextualised parts of the show that turned it all crystal clear. At the same time it felt very much like doing a fandom deep dive into a fandom meta rabbit hole, only this time I didn't have to wade through hundreds of tumblr blogs and tags and links to dreamwidth entries etc to find it; it's all here, in a neat little focused collection structured a bit like an academic paper. The only downside is (if I had to mention one) is that this book represents only the viewpoints of one person, whereas fandom meta on the internet is as varied as the people who write it.
Anyhow, this turned out to be a perfect read to me - offering not a definite interpretation of the show, but *an* interpretation. Most delightful was actually the academic angle - it wasn't overwhelming by any means, it was just confident. Confident in its usage of academic terminology and definitions. (Say you're sick and tired of tumblr discourse without saying you're sick and tired of tumblr discourse.) and I like that I don't agree with everything in this book either, that my reading of a scene or a character was different, and that I can still see where the author is coming from and understand why.
And you know what, if I wanted do then I do know where to find the other meta - I've been watching it cross my dash on a near daily basis for the better part of a year.
Ultimately what I love most about this book is that it confidently showcases so many (not all, I think that would take a longer book) ways in which Schitt's Creek isn't just a queer revolution of (a largely American and/or anglophone) entertainment industry, it very deftly places Schitt's Creek within a larger cultural canon and history (literary, queer) by examining the ways in which it is in conversation with not just other sitcoms, but theatre, literature, and queer creators throughout history. Schitt's Creek is so thoughtfully made that I have no doubt that much of it is intentional, but in some ways it doesn't even matter whether it was intentional or not - the way in which we engage with it is, and we (the author) have chosen to make it a part of the conversation.
I ordered the book as I was wrapping up the show, unsure of what the hell I'd just been through - I didn't even like it very much in the beginning, but by the end I was not only invested, but deeply conscious that I'd just watched a show that was unlike any other I've ever watched. I've spent the past week mulling it over, trying to put little mental pins into bits and pieces of it, trying to make sense of the full picture.
I could've just saved myself the trouble and read this straight away, but it only arrived in the post today, so. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I enjoyed this book-shaped essay as much as I did the show. It puts into words some of the murky thoughts I've been having, and contextualised parts of the show that turned it all crystal clear. At the same time it felt very much like doing a fandom deep dive into a fandom meta rabbit hole, only this time I didn't have to wade through hundreds of tumblr blogs and tags and links to dreamwidth entries etc to find it; it's all here, in a neat little focused collection structured a bit like an academic paper. The only downside is (if I had to mention one) is that this book represents only the viewpoints of one person, whereas fandom meta on the internet is as varied as the people who write it.
Anyhow, this turned out to be a perfect read to me - offering not a definite interpretation of the show, but *an* interpretation. Most delightful was actually the academic angle - it wasn't overwhelming by any means, it was just confident. Confident in its usage of academic terminology and definitions. (Say you're sick and tired of tumblr discourse without saying you're sick and tired of tumblr discourse.) and I like that I don't agree with everything in this book either, that my reading of a scene or a character was different, and that I can still see where the author is coming from and understand why.
And you know what, if I wanted do then I do know where to find the other meta - I've been watching it cross my dash on a near daily basis for the better part of a year.
Ultimately what I love most about this book is that it confidently showcases so many (not all, I think that would take a longer book) ways in which Schitt's Creek isn't just a queer revolution of (a largely American and/or anglophone) entertainment industry, it very deftly places Schitt's Creek within a larger cultural canon and history (literary, queer) by examining the ways in which it is in conversation with not just other sitcoms, but theatre, literature, and queer creators throughout history. Schitt's Creek is so thoughtfully made that I have no doubt that much of it is intentional, but in some ways it doesn't even matter whether it was intentional or not - the way in which we engage with it is, and we (the author) have chosen to make it a part of the conversation.
March 14, 2022
Like many others, Schitt's Creek got me through the first few months of the pandemic. My best memories those first few months are of my roommate and I curled up in her bed making our way through the series (side note, we didn't watch in the living room because we abandoned that room upon finding bedbugs for the second time. The start of the pandemic was a lot).
This book really made me think more about the series and how much it really meant to me. I loved Garside's approach - not only the impacts that Schitt's Creek had on queer culture, but also its place in queer culture and history. I would have loved more about its context in the wider world - acceptance from audience, critics, and honestly, its place as a CBC show, since I don't know if there's ever been a show like it from a Canadian broadcaster (or at least one as mainstream as CBC).
I also loved that this book made me rethink the character of Stevie and how I see myself. The first time I watched the series I liked Stevie and her plotlines, but never put too much thought into her. As I rewatched parts of it in 2021 when my parents watched the series, I found myself struck by how much I related to Stevie, particularly her feelings of abandonment as it seemed like everyone moved on while she stayed the same. Garside's chapter on Cabaret and the recognition of Stevie finding her strength and committing not to change herself, but own everything about herself really, really struck me. I think it's one I'm going to go back and read a few more times.
This book really made me think more about the series and how much it really meant to me. I loved Garside's approach - not only the impacts that Schitt's Creek had on queer culture, but also its place in queer culture and history. I would have loved more about its context in the wider world - acceptance from audience, critics, and honestly, its place as a CBC show, since I don't know if there's ever been a show like it from a Canadian broadcaster (or at least one as mainstream as CBC).
I also loved that this book made me rethink the character of Stevie and how I see myself. The first time I watched the series I liked Stevie and her plotlines, but never put too much thought into her. As I rewatched parts of it in 2021 when my parents watched the series, I found myself struck by how much I related to Stevie, particularly her feelings of abandonment as it seemed like everyone moved on while she stayed the same. Garside's chapter on Cabaret and the recognition of Stevie finding her strength and committing not to change herself, but own everything about herself really, really struck me. I think it's one I'm going to go back and read a few more times.
October 5, 2021
This made me realise some things about Schitt’s Creek which were clearly the reasons I loved it even if I wasn’t consciously aware of them. Like how I didn’t even register that Stevie starts and end the whole six series single and it’s never made into a big deal?? The live and let live attitude of the show is its quiet beauty.
One small thing was that this is from a very personal perspective of the author who is British, I would have liked some Canadian cultural context.
One small thing was that this is from a very personal perspective of the author who is British, I would have liked some Canadian cultural context.
August 29, 2022
Lovely little analysis about such an uplifting show. Full of brilliant points throughout but is perfectly summed up by the literal last few sentences:
"This little show told me it was okay to be who I am. To be burned and bruised by life, to be the one who doesn't quite fit in, or who hasn't found their path or their person yet. And that sometimes, it does work out, even for us"
Thanks Lucy for lending me this - I'm gonna have to re-watch the whole show now!!
"This little show told me it was okay to be who I am. To be burned and bruised by life, to be the one who doesn't quite fit in, or who hasn't found their path or their person yet. And that sometimes, it does work out, even for us"
Thanks Lucy for lending me this - I'm gonna have to re-watch the whole show now!!
June 28, 2023
Love That Journey for Me is an ode and love letter to Schitt's Creek and all it's done for queer characters and audiences. A short book that was a huge joy to read!
Read the full review on my blog!
Read the full review on my blog!
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June 13, 2024this is such a good little book, it bring up so many aspects of schitts creek you probably love but hadn’t even realised why they meant so much to you, or how they had been created purposefully to give queer representation, love and respect. recommended if ur a schitts creek fan!!
August 18, 2022
I loved the show and this book analyses it perfectly. Also came from one of my new favourite bookshops :) Joshua this one is for you xx
July 17, 2021
I spent lockdown discovering Schitt's Creek and raving about it. And this book allowed me to discover, and reflect upon, my feelings for the show all over again. Garside captures the multifaceted impact of the show perfectly in her little pink book. Her words, her reflections and assessments, really made me reflect on things I hadn't thought about, as well as all the moments I'd cried and laughed throughout the first (and second and third and fourth, etc) watch! No matter who, or what, we are, which labels we chose, there will be a time that all of us will need Schitt's Creek.
This show made me feel part of something. I watched it just after my own coming out story unfolded. It was an invite into a community and into friendships and a narrative I'd never seen, or been involved in, before. And this book made me realise why it had been so important.
Emily Garside made me laugh, and cry in memory of the significant moments from the show. She is passionate, widely knowledgeable, and a great read.
This show made me feel part of something. I watched it just after my own coming out story unfolded. It was an invite into a community and into friendships and a narrative I'd never seen, or been involved in, before. And this book made me realise why it had been so important.
Emily Garside made me laugh, and cry in memory of the significant moments from the show. She is passionate, widely knowledgeable, and a great read.
July 23, 2021
I enjoyed it. As a fan of the show I've never really thought about it in that much depth but it was interesting to think about it in a different way. Not my usually type of book to pick up but it was a nice short and easy read overall.
July 22, 2021
I started this expecting to enjoy an analysis that spoke to what I already knew about Schitt’s Creek and was delightfully surprised by Garside’s astute observations on aspects that had gone over my head (and truly pleased someone has finally explained the significance of Cabaret)
December 5, 2023
A short but heartwarming analysis of a show I love
April 19, 2023
Schitt's Creek is not only one of my favorite TV shows, it genuinely saved me. It got me through The Great Depression of July 2021. I watched it 3 times in one month because I was miserable and it was my one and only source of joy.
Reading this book affirmed my belief that people find this show when they most need it; when they most need the happiness, love and unconditional acceptance that radiates from every episode. The author herself states that she found it at one of the lowest moments of her life, then became “almost evangelical” in her conviction that people find it when they need it.
My only real problem with the book is the poor editing. The amount of misspellings and grammatical errors was irritating. But other than that, it was wonderful. It makes for a beautiful and heartwarming piece of supplementary reading after watching (and hopefully loving) the show.
Reading this book affirmed my belief that people find this show when they most need it; when they most need the happiness, love and unconditional acceptance that radiates from every episode. The author herself states that she found it at one of the lowest moments of her life, then became “almost evangelical” in her conviction that people find it when they need it.
My only real problem with the book is the poor editing. The amount of misspellings and grammatical errors was irritating. But other than that, it was wonderful. It makes for a beautiful and heartwarming piece of supplementary reading after watching (and hopefully loving) the show.
July 17, 2021
This is a really beautiful book for fans of Schitt's Creek. My only complaint is that I wish there was more of it! This is a joyous celebration of the show and its community.
July 20, 2021
This made my queer academic heart sing!
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