The “Something Borrowed” episode of How I Met Your Mother primarily explores the emotional turmoil surrounding Stella Zinman’s ill-fated wedding and the complex web of relationships that unravel in its wake, rather than directly focusing on Ashley Benson’s character, Carly Whittaker. Benson’s brief appearance serves primarily as a catalyst for Robin’s realization about Barney’s feelings for her, a pivotal moment that ultimately reshapes the dynamic of the entire friend group.
Understanding Ashley Benson’s Role in “Something Borrowed”
Ashley Benson’s character, Carly Whittaker, plays a relatively small but significant role in the larger narrative arc of How I Met Your Mother. She is Ted’s ex-girlfriend, the one who dated him immediately after he was left at the altar by Stella. While she doesn’t have a massive storyline in this specific episode, her presence allows for crucial character development, especially for Robin and Barney. The episode leans heavily on the awkwardness and underlying tensions within the group as Stella’s wedding day turns into a series of comedic and emotionally charged events.
The Catalyst for Barney and Robin’s Romance
Carly’s presence at the wedding, orchestrated by Ted in an attempt to alleviate his post-Stella heartbreak, forces Robin to confront the depth of Barney’s feelings for her. Seeing Barney flirt with Carly triggers a wave of jealousy and introspection in Robin, prompting her to realize her own complicated feelings for him. This realization wouldn’t have been as impactful without a tangible demonstration of Barney’s potential interest in someone else. Benson, therefore, provides the necessary external force to accelerate the simmering romantic tension between Barney and Robin. This marks a significant turning point in their relationship, setting the stage for their eventual romance.
Highlighting Ted’s Unresolved Emotions
The episode also underscores Ted’s lingering pain and awkward attempts to move on from Stella. Bringing Carly, a rebound relationship, to Stella’s wedding screams of desperation and highlights his inability to cope with rejection. Carly, in a way, becomes a symbol of Ted’s vulnerability and his desperate need to fill the void left by Stella. While his actions are driven by heartbreak, they inadvertently contribute to the chaotic atmosphere of the wedding and force him to face the reality of his situation. The scene where Ted introduces Carly as the person he met immediately after Stella left him at the altar underscores the comedic tragedy that often defines his character.
The Broader Significance of “Something Borrowed”
Beyond Ashley Benson’s character, the episode is crucial for several reasons. It deals with themes of unrequited love, commitment, and the fear of being alone. Stella’s abrupt decision to run away with Tony reinforces the show’s recurring theme of the unpredictability of love and relationships. The episode also showcases the enduring bond between the friends and their sometimes questionable attempts to support each other through difficult times. The wedding itself becomes a microcosm of their lives, filled with humor, awkwardness, and ultimately, a poignant exploration of their individual journeys. The constant references to “the goat” add a layer of absurdist humor that underscores the chaotic nature of the day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about “Something Borrowed”
Here are some frequently asked questions about the “Something Borrowed” episode, providing a deeper understanding of the characters and storylines:
FAQ 1: Why is Stella running away with Tony so significant?
Stella’s decision signifies the fragility of commitment and the unpredictability of love. After Ted uprooted his life for her, she chose to return to her ex, demonstrating that timing and compatibility are crucial, even if initial connections seem strong. It also deeply impacts Ted’s trust in relationships, influencing his future choices.
FAQ 2: What is the significance of the “Something Borrowed” title?
The title likely refers to the borrowed time that Stella and Tony seemingly had, rekindling their love after years apart. It also hints at the borrowed feelings within the group, with Robin realizing her feelings for Barney, influenced by Ted’s bringing Carly.
FAQ 3: How does this episode contribute to Barney’s character development?
This episode is crucial for showcasing Barney’s capacity for genuine emotion. His attraction to Robin is no longer just a casual flirtation; it’s becoming something deeper. Seeing him with Carly sparks jealousy in Robin and prompts Barney to consider whether he truly wants a relationship with Robin. This episode solidifies his growing complexity beyond the womanizing facade.
FAQ 4: What is the comedic relief in this emotionally charged episode?
The comedic relief is primarily provided through the absurdity of the wedding preparations, Stella’s unpredictable behavior, and the ongoing “goat” subplot. These elements prevent the episode from becoming overly melodramatic and maintain the show’s signature blend of humor and heart.
FAQ 5: How does Lily’s role as the “mother hen” of the group manifest in this episode?
Lily tries to maintain peace and order amidst the chaos. She attempts to counsel Ted, orchestrate damage control, and support Robin through her emotional turmoil. She acts as the glue that holds the group together, offering advice and trying to prevent further complications.
FAQ 6: How does “Something Borrowed” foreshadow future storylines?
The episode foreshadows the Barney and Robin relationship, hinting at their eventual romance and the challenges they will face. It also sets the stage for Ted’s continued search for “The One,” highlighting the obstacles and heartbreaks he will encounter along the way.
FAQ 7: What are Ted’s motivations for bringing Carly to the wedding?
Ted’s motivations are a mix of revenge, insecurity, and a desperate attempt to move on. He wants to show Stella that he’s not dwelling on the breakup and that he’s capable of finding someone new. However, his actions are ultimately driven by unresolved pain and a lack of self-awareness.
FAQ 8: What is the role of the flashback scenes in “Something Borrowed?”
The flashback scenes provide context for the characters’ relationships and highlight the evolution of their dynamics. They offer glimpses into past experiences that inform their present-day actions and motivations, deepening the audience’s understanding of their interconnectedness.
FAQ 9: Does Stella ultimately make the right decision?
Whether Stella made the “right” decision is subjective. While it caused immense pain for Ted, it ultimately led her back to her daughter and a potentially more fulfilling relationship with Tony. The episode highlights the fact that “right” decisions are often complex and based on individual needs and desires.
FAQ 10: How does the episode portray the complexities of love and relationships?
“Something Borrowed” portrays love and relationships as messy, unpredictable, and often painful. It demonstrates that even seemingly perfect connections can crumble, and that finding lasting happiness requires navigating a complex web of emotions, expectations, and personal growth.
FAQ 11: Why is the episode considered a pivotal moment in the series?
The episode serves as a catalyst for significant character development, particularly for Barney and Robin. It accelerates their romantic storyline and sets the stage for future conflicts and resolutions. The events of the wedding have lasting consequences, shaping the trajectory of the entire friend group. It is a great example of comedic storytelling with emotional depth.
FAQ 12: How does the episode utilize humor to balance the serious themes?
The episode masterfully blends humor and heart. The absurd situations, witty dialogue, and the ongoing “goat” joke offer moments of levity that prevent the episode from becoming overly somber. This balance is crucial for maintaining the show’s signature tone and engaging the audience on multiple levels. The humor allows viewers to process the emotional complexities of the storyline in a more accessible and enjoyable way.