Something Pretty

"You can't slit the throat of everyone whose character it would improve."

In this episode of the "Something Pretty" podcast, Wes and Clay dive into episode 10 of HBO's Deadwood titled "Mister Wu." They guide listeners through the events of the episode, discussing the characters' developments, intriguing storylines, and the overall atmosphere of Deadwood.

The episode begins with Al Swearengen dealing with the fallout of a robbery in Chinatown orchestrated by two white men. Mister Wu, a prominent figure in Deadwood's Chinese community, reaches out to Swearengen for help in seeking justice. While initially reluctant to get involved, Al eventually agrees to work with Wu to solve the issue, showcasing an unexpected alliance between the two characters.

Wes and Clay discuss the significance of the relationship between Al and Wu, as well as the broader implications of cultural tensions and alliances within the town. They highlight the episode's exploration of Deadwood's diverse community, which includes Chinese immigrants and their struggles in a predominantly white, lawless frontier town.

Throughout the episode, the hosts also delve into the various subplots that add depth and complexity to the show. They discuss the ongoing conflict between Al Swearengen and Cy Tolliver, as well as the developing romance between Seth Bullock and Alma Garret, who are both grappling with their feelings for each other while navigating the challenges of life in Deadwood.

The podcast episode also touches on the dynamic between Sol Star and Trixie, who are trying to navigate their relationship in the midst of the dangerous and uncertain world of Deadwood. Additionally, Wes and Clay examine the role of E.B. Farnum as he continues to manipulate events and characters to serve his own interests.

In their signature style, Wes and Clay balance critical analysis with humor as they provide an entertaining and insightful commentary on Deadwood's "Mister Wu" episode. From exploring the unique alliances formed in a lawless town to discussing the complex personal relationships that develop among the characters, Wes and Clay keep their listeners engaged and entertained throughout the podcast.

Join them in this episode of the "Something Pretty" podcast as they delve into the intricate world of Deadwood and explore the fascinating characters and storylines that make the show so captivating.

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Supplemental Reading:

The Deadwood Bible: A Lie Agreed Upon

Deadwood: Stories of the Black Hills

Deadwood: The Golden Years

Reading Deadwood: A Western to Swear By

Life's Work

Theme Song:

Western ShowDown by HoliznaCC0 is licensed under a CC0 1.0 Universal License.

"In life, you have to do a lot of things you don't fucking want to do. Many times, that's what the fuck life is... one vile fucking task after another."

In the latest episode of the "Something Pretty" podcast, Wes and Clay delve into HBO's Deadwood episode "No Other Sons or Daughters." The hosts explore the anticipation and anxiety surrounding the annexation of the Black Hills, which prompts Al Swearengen to gather Deadwood's leaders and establish an "ad hoc" government to appease the territorial authorities in Yankton.

Wes and Clay discuss the dynamics between the characters as they navigate the evolving political landscape. They analyze the interactions between Alma Garret, Whitney Ellsworth, and Seth Bullock, as well as the tension between Cy Tolliver and Joanie Stubbs as they pursue their own interests in the rapidly changing town.

The hosts also touch on the declining health of Reverend Smith and how it affects his relationships with the other characters, particularly Calamity Jane and Doc Cochran. They discuss the impact of Flora and Miles' execution on Eddie Sawyer, and how it strains his relationship with Cy Tolliver.

Throughout the episode, Wes and Clay bring their signature blend of critical analysis and humor to the table, providing engaging commentary on Deadwood's complex characters and storylines. They discuss the characters' motivations and the power struggles that continue to shape the town as it moves toward annexation.

Join Wes and Clay of the "Something Pretty" podcast as they explore the intricate web of relationships, politics, and personal struggles that define Deadwood's episode "No Other Sons or Daughters."

Links:

Support "Something Pretty" on Patreon

Listen to our other podcasts

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Join our Discord

Supplemental Reading:

The Deadwood Bible: A Lie Agreed Upon

Deadwood: Stories of the Black Hills

Deadwood: The Golden Years

Reading Deadwood: A Western to Swear By

Life's Work

Theme Song:

Western ShowDown by HoliznaCC0 is licensed under a CC0 1.0 Universal License.

"I wouldn't trust a man who wouldn't try to steal a little."

In the latest episode of the "Something Pretty" podcast, hosts Wes and Clay dive into the thrilling world of Deadwood, dissecting the captivating episode "Suffer the Little Children." This episode is packed with tension, intrigue, and harsh lessons as the town of Deadwood navigates the challenges of life on the frontier.

Wes and Clay explore the arrival of much-needed vaccines and news of a potential treaty with the Sioux. The hosts delve into the cautious optimism that takes hold in the camp, analyzing the impact of these developments on Deadwood's residents and their relationships. Listeners will be drawn into a lively discussion about the complexities of frontier life and the shifting dynamics within the town.

As they analyze Al Swearengen's pragmatic approach to leadership and his resistance to E.B. Farnum's violent advice, Wes and Clay provide listeners with a deeper understanding of Swearengen's character. They also touch on the evolving relationship between these two powerful men and the tension simmering beneath the surface.

The podcast hosts don't shy away from discussing Cy Tolliver's ruthless nature and the brutal lesson he teaches Miles, Flora, and Madam Joanie Stubbs. They dissect Tolliver's motivations and the implications of his actions on the town's residents, offering keen insights into the darker side of Deadwood.

Throughout the episode, Wes and Clay employ their signature blend of critical analysis and humor, keeping listeners engaged and entertained. They bring the world of Deadwood to life, offering fresh perspectives on the show's characters, storylines, and themes.

Don't miss episode 10 of "Something Pretty," where Wes and Clay tackle the gripping Deadwood episode "Suffer the Little Children," and offer their unique insights into the challenges, triumphs, and betrayals that define life in this gritty frontier town.

Links:

Support "Something Pretty" on Patreon

Listen to our other podcasts

YouTube

Join our Discord

Supplemental Reading:

The Deadwood Bible: A Lie Agreed Upon

Deadwood: Stories of the Black Hills

Deadwood: The Golden Years

Reading Deadwood: A Western to Swear By

Life's Work

Theme Song:

Western ShowDown by HoliznaCC0 is licensed under a CC0 1.0 Universal License.

"Oh, do you worry for her, Dan? Wandering the muck of our thoroughfare, her tiny self all but swallowed up in horseshit?"

The title says it all. Bullock and Charlie Utter return to Deadwood having avenged the murder of Wild Bill Hickok. They find themselves returning to a settlement that has moved beyond the practicalities of business and is beginning to explore the intrapersonal. Alma and Trixie come to an understanding. Farnum tries to press Alma on her gold claim, but his timing continues to be his downfall. And two siblings, Miles and Flora, arrive at the camp in search of their missing father.

In this episode of the podcast, Wes and Clay discuss "Bullock Returns to the Camp" and how a verbose show like Deadwood manages to also create clarity in a few words. Plus! The guys chat about putting the whiskey away, balancing the sweet and the sour, and the sexual power dynamics of the camp.

Links:

Support "Something Pretty" on Patreon

Listen to our other podcasts

YouTube

Join our Discord

Supplemental Reading:

The Deadwood Bible: A Lie Agreed Upon

Deadwood: Stories of the Black Hills

Deadwood: The Golden Years

Reading Deadwood: A Western to Swear By

Life's Work

Theme Song:

Western ShowDown by HoliznaCC0 is licensed under a CC0 1.0 Universal License.

"Anyway, don't play that shit where you make me drag your words outta you. Declare, or shut the fuck up."

The Biblical references continue! A plague of sickness has descended upon the camp (we're still waiting on the locusts) and the tiny strands of communal interconnectedness will face an early challenge to their durability. The Reverend Smith has warned about the dangers of saying "I have no need of thee" and infectious disease will serve as a bellwether to the future chances of the camp. As some relationships are strengthened, others are weakened. And when two people fight, don't be the one to miss the layup.

In this episode of the podcast, Wes and Clay discuss "Plague" and the difference between Al Swearengen and Cy Tolliver. Plus! The guys chat about subtle clues around cheating, the riverboat adventures of the Bella Union, and David Milch's opinion of the Fourth Estate.

Links:

Support "Something Pretty" on Patreon

Listen to our other podcasts

YouTube

Join our Discord

Supplemental Reading:

The Deadwood Bible: A Lie Agreed Upon

Deadwood: Stories of the Black Hills

Deadwood: The Golden Years

Reading Deadwood: A Western to Swear By

Life's Work

Theme Song:

Western ShowDown by HoliznaCC0 is licensed under a CC0 1.0 Universal License.

"I believe in God's purpose. Not knowing it, I ask him, moving in me, to allow me to see his will. I ask him, moving in others, to allow them to see it."

Jack McCall might have managed to murder Wild Bill Hickok, but his escape was less than successful. The death of the closest thing Deadwood had to a hero has left the settlement confused and in a bind: justice should be delivered, but future plans require that justice to be something less than satisfying. If the trial results in a sentence or punishment, Al's visions of vipers would seem to be more and more likely. When everything some seek to gain could vanish into smoke, others who have lost might have to find other ways to ease their pain.

In this episode of the podcast, Wes and Clay discuss "The Trial of Jack McCall" and how the show handles its most satirical content yet. Plus! The guys chat about the language and syntax of the series, its view of religion, and how justice can mean different things to different people.

Links:

Support "Something Pretty" on Patreon

Listen to our other podcasts

YouTube

Join our Discord

Supplemental Reading:

The Deadwood Bible: A Lie Agreed Upon

Deadwood: Stories of the Black Hills

Deadwood: The Golden Years

Reading Deadwood: A Western to Swear By

Life's Work

Theme Song:

Western ShowDown by HoliznaCC0 is licensed under a CC0 1.0 Universal License.

"Can you let me go to Hell the way I want to?"

The settlement of Deadwood is at an inflection point. The area became a beacon to those seeking to escape the bounds of civilization by finding wealth in the freezing waters of the Dakotas. Individuals of all stripes and backgrounds flooded into the camp and have been trying to create a social hierarchy ever since. In the midst of the chaos, people like Al Swearengen have built criminal empires and become wealthy. And they're also desperate to maintain that control.

People, however, seem to have an innate need to create structures around themselves to protect those who can't protect themselves. When Alma discovers that her husband is dead, and she suspects foul play, she turns to Wild Bill Hickok as a solution. And the redemption of Wild Bill is a wonderful metaphor for our reliance on society, as well as a reminder that thunder is always rumbling in the distance.

In this episode of the podcast, Wes and Clay discuss "Here Was a Man", but they don't say it in thunder. Plus! The guys chat about an idealized version of the government and state, insulting animals, and the many reasons one might need a new suit.

Links:

Support "Something Pretty" on Patreon

Listen to our other podcasts

YouTube

Join our Discord

Supplemental Reading:

The Deadwood Bible: A Lie Agreed Upon

Deadwood: Stories of the Black Hills

Deadwood: The Golden Years

Reading Deadwood: A Western to Swear By

Life's Work

Theme Song:

Western ShowDown by HoliznaCC0 is licensed under a CC0 1.0 Universal License.

"A man's ways please the Lord when he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him".

Trust is put to the test in "Reconnoitering the Rim". The third episode of "Deadwood" features some intrusions into the macrocosm of the camp: the Bella Union opens up shop across the way from The Gem and Wild Bill is hounded by those who wish him ill will. As the characters of the town circle each other, they begin to size one another up and are forced to make decisions about how to move forward. When threats appear, can you survive by simply burning it all down?

In this episode of the podcast, Wes and Clay discuss "Reconnoitering the Rim" and that's three in a row for us, Wild Bill. Plus! The guys chat about the Bella Union versus The Gem, the curse of celebrity, and the character who is most out of sync with the settlement.

Links:

Support "Something Pretty" on Patreon

Listen to our other podcasts

YouTube

Join our Discord

Supplemental Reading:

The Deadwood Bible: A Lie Agreed Upon

Deadwood: Stories of the Black Hills

Deadwood: The Golden Years

Reading Deadwood: A Western to Swear By

Life's Work

Theme Song:

Western ShowDown by HoliznaCC0 is licensed under a CC0 1.0 Universal License.

"I see as much misery outta them movin’ to justify their selves as them that set out to do harm."

"Deep Water" shows us how trouble and danger have taken hold of life in Deadwood. People like Al Swearengen were among the first to arrive in the settlement and they established the tone and decorum for people arriving afterward. Addiction drives many of our characters to actions they regret yet can't escape. The pursuit of righteous justice might end up creating more despair.

And many people just can't stop talking to Al.

In this episode of "Something Pretty", Wes and Clay discuss "Deep Water" because it's close, and cocksuckers like us always go for the easiest chance. Plus! The guys talk about Jane's backstory, master negotiator Seth Bullock, and hanging around when you should leave.

Links:

Support "Something Pretty" on Patreon

Listen to our other podcasts

YouTube

Join our Discord

Supplemental Reading:

The Deadwood Bible: A Lie Agreed Upon

Deadwood: Stories of the Black Hills

Deadwood: The Golden Years

Reading Deadwood: A Western to Swear By

Life's Work

Theme Song:

Western ShowDown by HoliznaCC0 is licensed under a CC0 1.0 Universal License.

"I'm executin' sentence now and he's hangin' under color of law."

In the pilot of "Deadwood", a variety of interesting characters feel a pull towards the settlement of Deadwood, an illegal gold rush camp in Indian territory that exists outside the confines of the United States. Drawn towards the allure of easy wealth, characters like Seth Bullock and Al Swearengen start to build a civilization from the piss-filled mud of the Dakota Territory atop a foundation of murdering, whoring and robbing.

David Milch's "Deadwood" is a television series that examines the "lies agreed upon" that enable the creation of a functioning society from the disparate individual strands of humanity. The pilot episode, directed by Walter Hill, introduces several key themes, a handful of memorable characters, and some unusual cinematography that might not be around too much longer.

In this episode of "Something Pretty", Wes and Clay discuss the pilot episode, "Deadwood" and how the show handles introducing so many unique voices. Plus! The guys chat about law and order, the genetics of clammy hands, and why you won't catch us sippin' at it.

Links:

Support "Something Pretty" on Patreon

Listen to our other podcasts

YouTube

Join our Discord

Supplemental Reading:

The Deadwood Bible: A Lie Agreed Upon

Deadwood: Stories of the Black Hills

Deadwood: The Golden Years

Reading Deadwood: A Western to Swear By

Life's Work

Theme Song:

Western ShowDown by HoliznaCC0 is licensed under a CC0 1.0 Universal License.