Piper Chapman and Dan Humphrey (erroneously referred to as “Dan” instead of Larry Bloom) finally sever ties in Season 2, Episode 6, “You Also Have a Pizza” of Orange Is the New Black. This episode marks the culmination of their strained relationship, heavily impacted by Piper’s choices and experiences within Litchfield Penitentiary.
The Cracks Begin to Show: A Recap Leading to the Breakup
Before “You Also Have a Pizza,” the relationship between Piper and Larry had been teetering on the brink for some time. Larry’s commitment wavered under the pressure of Piper’s incarceration and the infidelity she committed with Alex Vause. His confession to hooking up with Piper’s best friend, Polly, significantly eroded any remaining trust. This betrayal, revealed in the season premiere, served as the initial earthquake, fracturing the foundation of their once-stable connection. The distance, the secrets, and the emotional turmoil of prison life proved to be insurmountable obstacles.
The preceding episodes explore Larry’s increasing frustration and loneliness. He attempts to navigate life without Piper, struggling with her continued attachment to Alex and feeling increasingly marginalized. He seeks solace in Polly’s company, ultimately leading to the act that irrevocably damages his relationship with Piper. Conversely, Piper is immersed in the brutal realities of Litchfield, grappling with her own moral compass and the resurfacing of her complex feelings for Alex. The physical and emotional chasm between them widens with each episode.
“You Also Have a Pizza”: The Final Nail in the Coffin
The episode itself showcases both Piper and Larry grappling with the fallout of their respective actions. Piper, confronted with the repercussions of her choices, begins to understand the gravity of the hurt she has caused Larry. Simultaneously, Larry struggles with guilt and the realization that their relationship may be beyond repair.
The catalyst for the final breakup is Larry’s interview on NPR, where he publicly discusses his experiences with Piper’s incarceration and their relationship struggles. Piper, witnessing this interview through the prison’s communal television, feels betrayed and exposed. The public airing of their private struggles, coupled with the knowledge of Larry’s infidelity with Polly, solidifies her decision.
During a phone call, the tension is palpable. While the exact words may differ based on interpretation, the underlying message is clear: they are done. The episode closes with both Piper and Larry seemingly resigned to their fate, acknowledging the impossibility of continuing their relationship under the current circumstances. The pizza metaphor, referencing Larry’s attempts to connect with Piper through food deliveries, symbolizes the futility of his efforts to bridge the gap between them.
Impact and Significance of the Breakup
The breakup between Piper and Larry holds significant weight within the narrative of Orange Is the New Black. It signifies Piper’s complete immersion into the prison system and her evolving identity. She is no longer tethered to her past life, symbolized by her relationship with Larry. She embraces her new reality and begins to forge her own path, even if that path is riddled with moral ambiguities and questionable choices.
For Larry, the breakup marks the end of a chapter in his life. He is forced to confront the consequences of his actions and to rebuild his life without Piper. It provides him with an opportunity for self-reflection and ultimately allows him to move on.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What specifically triggers Piper’s decision to break up with Larry?
The NPR interview serves as the tipping point. Piper feels utterly betrayed by Larry’s public discussion of their personal struggles and the infidelity, especially considering she’s unable to defend herself. It’s the final realization that their relationship is irreparably damaged and that Larry prioritizes his own narrative over her feelings.
Did Larry cheat on Piper before she went to prison?
No, Larry did not cheat on Piper before she went to prison. His infidelity with Polly occurred after Piper’s incarceration, fueled by loneliness and the perceived breakdown of their relationship.
Was Larry justified in his actions with Polly?
That’s a complex question with no easy answer. Larry’s actions are understandable given the challenging circumstances, but many viewers consider them morally questionable. The show doesn’t offer a definitive judgment, allowing viewers to interpret his actions based on their own moral compass.
How did Piper react to Larry and Polly’s relationship?
Piper was deeply hurt and betrayed. She felt like the two people she trusted most had conspired against her while she was incarcerated and vulnerable.
Did Piper and Larry ever reconcile after their breakup in Season 2?
No, Piper and Larry never officially reconcile. While their paths occasionally cross, their relationship remains irrevocably broken. They acknowledge the past and attempt to be civil, but the trust and foundation for a romantic relationship are gone.
What happened to Larry after the breakup with Piper?
Larry continues to appear in subsequent seasons, primarily dealing with the aftermath of their relationship and his growing connection with Polly. He eventually proposes to Polly, solidifying his move away from his past with Piper.
How did Alex Vause factor into Piper and Larry’s breakup?
Alex’s presence and Piper’s rekindled feelings for her significantly contributed to the strain on Piper and Larry’s relationship. Piper’s admission of her feelings for Alex and their continued interactions inside prison created a barrier that Larry couldn’t overcome.
Was Polly portrayed as a sympathetic character in the situation with Larry?
Polly’s portrayal is nuanced. While she sympathizes with Larry’s loneliness and provides emotional support, she also acknowledges the gravity of her actions. The show explores the complexities of their relationship without explicitly labeling her as a villain or a victim.
What impact did prison life have on Piper’s relationship with Larry?
Prison life drastically altered Piper’s priorities and perspectives. She was forced to adapt to a new environment, confront her past, and develop new relationships. This transformation made it difficult for Larry to connect with the person she was becoming, leading to a fundamental disconnect.
Did Piper ever regret breaking up with Larry?
There are moments of reflection where Piper seemingly questions her decisions and acknowledges the pain she caused Larry. However, she ultimately accepts that their relationship was unsustainable, and she moves forward with her life. Whether she regrets it in a profound sense is open to interpretation.
How does the breakup episode contribute to the overall themes of Orange Is the New Black?
The episode reinforces the show’s themes of personal transformation, the complexities of human relationships, and the impact of incarceration on individuals and their loved ones. It demonstrates how prison can irrevocably alter a person and disrupt the lives of those connected to them.
What are the key takeaways from Piper and Larry’s relationship arc?
The key takeaways include the challenges of maintaining relationships during incarceration, the importance of trust and communication, and the potential for personal growth and self-discovery even in the most difficult circumstances. The relationship serves as a cautionary tale about the fragility of love and the profound impact of choices. It highlights how even seemingly strong relationships can crumble under the weight of external pressures and internal conflicts.