This kinda hits a bit close to home.
My parents weren't as extreme as Machi's are (although there are actually some who are like that) but there was always that extreme pressure to be the best at anything. And even when you're the best in your class, they'll find someone to compare you. That line about not getting the 10 points so you'd have a perfect score? Heard it a million times. It's exhausting and it builds up within you because they're your parents and you can't lash out.
So when adulthood comes, there's your chance at freedom.
I don't get it. If Machi wanted her parents to back off, so much that she would risk alienating them, why wouldn't she just tell them back the foxtrot-uniform-charlie-kilo off?
Oh you sweet summer child. I'm sure that was what Machi originally wanted, but that's just not as easy for those living in Asian countries. You don't actually get to be free when you're 18. They're your family and they will always poke their noses in your business, especially about marriage. And the culture is going to lynch you if you abandon them.
Even though Machi said she doesn't want to be bothered, it's not really something you can just shake off one day miraculously. It's the pressure. The expectations. The hellish idea that someone is trying to control your life (or not, I may just be projecting here). Anyway, that was the vibe I got from Machi's nightmare. Does Hana also have these expectations from her? Where is it going to lead? What's going to happen when she can't give those things to her? Is she going to be indebted to Hana because she might save her from her family?
I started to dislike Machi, when I found out, she already shot poor Hana down. It's just cruel to put Hana in that situation. Even if it was Hana's idea. Hana is obviously hoping something is going to happen, and her heart will be broken all over again when it doesn't.
I really disagree with this. It felt more like Hana steamrolled into Machi's life like this. Hana might be the one foolishly building this fantasy and just dragging Machi along with her during a time when Machi is dealing with something big. The whole premise of Hana makes me feel like she's someone who's taking advantage of the situation. I know it's hard to see a lesbian not get her happy ending, but putting all the blame on Machi isn't really fair.
WELL. That's gotta be my longest Dynasty post though I'm not surprised it was this artist that brought it out in me.