Adios, Pawnee
Have you ever felt your heart brim with joy, a sense of satisfaction and happiness that words can’t define. It’s an exquisite feeling. The heart is full. Such is the feel now. I just completed watching Parks and Recreation.
A simple sitcom about a bunch of people working at a government office managing parks. I never saw any glowing reviews or recommendations anywhere so my expectations weren't great. I was even sceptical on if I should continue after the first few episodes as the show felt flat. But, little did I know, I was watching a show that's going to be a part of my life, be etched into me forever and be a constant recommend henceforth to whoever asks for something to watch.
Parks and Recreation is a happy show. It leaves me with heart filled or welled every night. Led by Amy Poehler as Leslie Knope, the leading woman of the show has several other character who leave a mark with their simple traits. Ron Swanson is one of the characters that I found most relatable after Ross in Friends and Otis in Sex Ed. The guy is an epitome of solitude, a giant with a soft heart and the idea of being oneself and finding peace with it, a thing I desire to be.
Aubrey Plaza as April Ludgate and Chris Pratt as Andy Dwyer bringing up the goofiness to the show. They're silly but likeable. The chemistry of April Ludgate with Ann Perkins was one of the best in the show. They seemingly hate each other but are so adorable together. Then, there's Adam Scott as Ben Wyatt, the leading man of the show and he's all good, the nerdiness is off the charts.
Adam Scott failing to become Jim, only to eventually lead another beloved sitcom, feels strangely reassuring, the kind of redemption I hope life has in store for me too. The show has plenty of other characters who make regular appearances and the character dynamic is what makes it worth it. The moments are built up so well and they really make you yearn for such friendships and relationships.
Get James Carnival’s stories in your inbox
Join Medium for free to get updates from this writer.
I desire to be Ron, sans any friend and sustained by his own self and yet I hope to have a Ben or Leslie with whom I can talk hours about this show.
The 3-4 months I watched this show has been so special. Come tomorrow, I'll feel a void that won't get filled easily.
Adios, Pawnee.
