Emily Fields and Alison DiLaurentis, the central figures of a slow-burn romance spanning seasons of Pretty Little Liars, finally solidify their relationship in the penultimate episode of the series, Season 7, Episode 19, “Farewell, My Lovely.” While the seeds of their connection were sown much earlier, this episode marks the definitive point where they choose to openly acknowledge and act upon their feelings for one another, culminating in Alison proposing to Emily.
A Long and Winding Road: The Evolution of Emison
The romantic journey between Emily and Alison is one of the most talked-about aspects of Pretty Little Liars. It’s a narrative steeped in longing, secrets, and the complexities of teenage identity. Understanding how they arrive at this point requires acknowledging the significant milestones, emotional hurdles, and manipulative forces that influenced their relationship from the very beginning.
The Early Years: Infatuation and Manipulation
In the initial seasons, Alison, the charismatic queen bee, holds a significant power over Emily, who harbors a deep-seated infatuation. Alison’s behavior is often characterized as manipulative, using Emily’s feelings to maintain control within their group of friends. However, glimpses of genuine affection and a unique understanding between them flicker beneath the surface, hinting at a deeper connection beyond simple manipulation. This period is rife with ambiguity, leaving fans wondering if Alison truly cared for Emily or was merely exploiting her vulnerability.
Trials and Tribulations: Separations and Reunions
The constant threat of “A” and the numerous tragedies that befall the Liars continually disrupted any chance for a stable relationship between Emily and Alison. Alison’s disappearance, subsequent return, and eventual accusations of her being “A” all contributed to the tumultuous nature of their connection. Even when present in each other’s lives, external forces and internal insecurities kept them from fully committing. Both Emily and Alison explored other relationships, further complicating their dynamic and adding layers of complexity to their eventual reconciliation.
The Proposal: A Defining Moment
The proposal in “Farewell, My Lovely” is not just a simple romantic gesture; it’s a symbolic culmination of years of shared trauma, growth, and ultimately, love. The decision to get engaged, particularly from Alison, represents a significant shift in her character, showcasing vulnerability and a willingness to commit to a future with Emily. It’s a moment that many fans had been waiting for since the very beginning of the series.
Understanding the Nuances: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Emily and Alison’s relationship in Pretty Little Liars, providing deeper context and clarification on their intertwined story.
1. When does Emily first realize she has feelings for Alison?
Emily’s feelings for Alison are subtly hinted at from the very beginning of the series. However, a pivotal moment occurs in Season 1, Episode 9, “Know Your Frenemies,” when Alison kisses Emily. This incident solidifies Emily’s realization and acceptance of her attraction to Alison, marking a significant turning point in her character arc.
2. What other relationships did Emily and Alison have before getting together?
Both Emily and Alison had various relationships throughout the series. Emily dated Maya St. Germain, Paige McCullers, and Samara Cook, among others. Alison, while often portraying herself as detached, had a complicated relationship with Ian Thomas and a brief romance with Lorenzo Calderon. These relationships often served as catalysts for jealousy, introspection, and a clearer understanding of their feelings for each other.
3. Why was Alison so secretive and manipulative with Emily in the early seasons?
Alison’s behavior stemmed from a combination of factors, including her own insecurities, her need for control, and the immense pressure she felt to maintain her carefully constructed image. She was afraid of revealing her true self and used manipulation as a defense mechanism. This also included a fear of her own sexuality and societal expectations.
4. What significance does the baby, Lily and Grace, have in Emily and Alison’s relationship?
Lily and Grace, the twins Alison carries as a surrogate (although later revealed to be her biological children), represent a significant commitment and a step toward building a future together. The arrival of the twins forces both Emily and Alison to confront their responsibilities and solidify their roles as a family, further deepening their bond.
5. How did Alison’s “death” and reappearance impact their relationship?
Alison’s disappearance and presumed death deeply affected Emily, fueling her determination to uncover the truth and keep Alison’s memory alive. Her reappearance, however, brought a new set of challenges, as Alison was no longer the same person. This forced Emily to re-evaluate her feelings and accept Alison for who she had become, not who she remembered.
6. Was there any fan backlash regarding the “Emison” relationship?
Yes, the “Emison” relationship faced criticism from some viewers. Some felt that Alison’s earlier manipulative behavior was never truly addressed and that portraying her as a romantic partner was problematic. Others criticized the writing, arguing that the relationship felt forced or underdeveloped compared to other pairings on the show.
7. How does the show address Alison’s previous manipulative behavior towards Emily?
The show attempts to address Alison’s past actions through dialogue and character development, showcasing her remorse and efforts to change. However, many viewers felt that these attempts were insufficient and that Alison never fully atoned for her past transgressions. This remained a point of contention for some fans.
8. What were the biggest obstacles preventing Emily and Alison from being together?
Several obstacles stood in their way, including the “A” storyline, Alison’s secrets and lies, their individual insecurities, and external relationships. The constant threat of danger and the constant need for secrecy made it difficult for them to build a stable and trusting relationship.
9. Did Sasha Pieterse and Shay Mitchell, the actresses portraying Alison and Emily, support the relationship?
Both Sasha Pieterse and Shay Mitchell expressed their support for the “Emison” relationship, emphasizing the importance of representation and the evolution of their characters. They often spoke about the complexity of the relationship and the challenges it presented.
10. Is the relationship portrayed differently in the Pretty Little Liars books?
The Pretty Little Liars books differ significantly from the television series in many aspects, including the portrayal of relationships. In the books, Emily and Alison’s connection is far more complex and arguably less romanticized. The books delve into darker themes and explore the manipulative dynamics between the characters in a more nuanced way.
11. What specific scenes in “Farewell, My Lovely” showcase the strength of their bond?
The episode showcases their bond through several key scenes. The heartfelt conversation where they discuss their future, the emotional moment when Alison realizes she truly loves Emily, and, of course, the proposal itself are all pivotal in illustrating the strength of their connection. The shared vulnerability and the palpable sense of love are undeniable in these scenes.
12. What lasting impact has the “Emison” relationship had on the LGBTQ+ representation in teen dramas?
The “Emison” relationship, despite its complexities and criticisms, has undoubtedly contributed to increased LGBTQ+ representation in teen dramas. It provided visibility for a lesbian relationship within a popular mainstream show, sparking conversations and challenging societal norms. While not without its flaws, it paved the way for more nuanced and authentic portrayals of LGBTQ+ characters in subsequent television series.