"You're a desperate man, aren't you, Tolliver? Desperate. You feel your position weakening."

In this episode of "Something Pretty," Wes and Clay delve deep into the heart of Deadwood's exploration of personal suffering and its reflections through its characters and the institution of religious faith. They highlight how the show delves into the profound emotional struggles individuals face in the camp, revealing the raw and vulnerable sides of the characters. Wes and Clay analyze the complexities of faith in Deadwood, how it intersects with personal suffering, and how different characters grapple with their beliefs in the face of adversity. It's the penultimate episode of Deadwood, and it's called "The Whores Can Come".

One of the central themes explored in "The Whores Can Come" is Al Swearengen's masterful manipulation of various players to achieve the outcomes he desires. Wes and Clay discuss Al's crafty and cunning nature, illustrating how he deftly plays all sides with both George Hearst and Commissioner Jarry. The hosts analyze Al's motivations and strategies, providing a fascinating look at the mind of this enigmatic character. They also examine the repercussions of Al's manipulations on the camp's power dynamics and speculate on the potential fallout in the season finale.

"The Whores Can Come" also offers a poignant exploration of Al Swearengen's loneliness, an aspect of his character often overshadowed by his cunning and ruthlessness. Wes and Clay discuss the vulnerability beneath Al's tough exterior, shedding light on the loneliness accompanying his position of power. They explore other characters' isolation in the show, underscoring the universal theme of loneliness and its profound impact on human connections.

As the hosts continue their analysis, they offer a captivating insight into the historical context of check cashing in 1877. Drawing on their research, Wes and Clay explain the intricacies of the check-cashing process during that era, shedding light on the economic and financial systems of the time. This enriching historical context adds depth to the episode's narrative and helps listeners better understand Deadwood's authenticity as a period drama. Or, it's all just a game of guesswork, as the hosts have almost no understanding of banking standards in the 19th century.

Join Wes and Clay in this thought-provoking exploration of "The Whores Can Come" as they uncover the profound themes and compelling narratives that make Deadwood an unparalleled television experience. "Something Pretty" is your source for insightful discussions and engaging analyses of Deadwood, offering a deeper appreciation for this groundbreaking series's emotional depth and historical accuracy.

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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.