Clark Kent’s secret weighed heavily throughout Smallville, a constant source of tension and drama, particularly in his relationship with Lana Lang. The truth, and the timing of its revelation, forms a pivotal moment in the series, shaping their future and the larger narrative arc. Clark Kent finally reveals his powers to Lana Lang in the season six episode, “Hydro,” specifically during the very end scene of the episode.
The Burden of Secrecy and the Long Wait
The dynamic between Clark and Lana was arguably the core emotional engine of Smallville for its first several seasons. The unrequited (and eventually requited) love, the shared trauma, and the constant pull of Clark’s secret created a compelling, if sometimes frustrating, narrative. The writers masterfully built suspense, dropping hints and near-misses, forcing viewers to wait with bated breath for the inevitable confession. This secrecy wasn’t merely a plot device; it was intricately linked to Clark’s journey of self-discovery and his eventual acceptance of his destiny. The fear of rejection, the potential danger to Lana, and the overwhelming weight of his origins contributed to his reluctance to share the truth.
Why So Long?
Several factors contributed to the long delay. Primarily, Clark feared how Lana would react. He witnessed how others responded to metahumans, both in Metropolis and Smallville, and the paranoia that Kryptonite evoked in normal humans. Furthermore, Lionel Luthor’s manipulative presence and knowledge of Clark’s existence served as a constant threat, influencing Clark’s decision to keep the secret. The numerous near-death experiences Lana faced because of Clark’s abilities further fueled his reluctance. Each close call reinforced the idea that ignorance was her best protection.
“Hydro”: The Dam Breaks
“Hydro” is significant not only for the revelation itself, but also for the events leading up to it. The episode revolves around the arrival of Arthur Curry (Aquaman) in Smallville, investigating a LexCorp project that threatens marine life. This storyline forces Clark to confront another superpowered individual, highlighting the shared responsibility and the potential for both good and evil inherent in their abilities. Witnessing Arthur’s commitment to protecting the environment and his willingness to use his powers publicly likely played a role in Clark’s decision to finally confide in Lana.
The climax of the episode, where Arthur saves Lana from drowning, likely served as the final catalyst. The fact that another powered individual risked his life for her, demonstrating the potential for good that Clark had always feared to embrace publicly, was a pivotal moment. After seeing that, Clark felt he could no longer keep the truth from Lana.
The Specific Scene
The revelation occurs at the very end of the episode. Clark is standing with Lana in the Talon courtyard. He begins to explain his abilities, demonstrating his super speed and strength, and finally revealing the source of his powers: Krypton. Lana, while clearly surprised, seems accepting and understanding, marking a significant shift in their relationship dynamic.
The Aftermath and the Road Ahead
While the revelation of Clark’s secret in “Hydro” initially seems like a positive turning point, the path ahead is far from smooth. The newfound honesty opens up new avenues for intimacy and trust, but also introduces new challenges and complications. Lana now becomes burdened with the knowledge of Clark’s alien origin and faces the potential dangers that come with being close to him.
Trust, Deception, and the Luthor Influence
Even after learning the truth, their relationship continued to be tested. The ongoing conflict with the Luthors, particularly Lex’s obsession with Clark and his abilities, casts a long shadow. Lana’s own complicated relationship with Lex, and the subsequent exposure to Project 33.1, lead to further complications and mistrust. Ultimately, the revelation, while initially a step forward, sets in motion a series of events that ultimately strain their relationship beyond repair.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Clark and Lana’s Story
Q1: Was Lana the first person Clark told his secret to?
No, Lana wasn’t the first. He confided in Pete Ross much earlier in the series. He also shared aspects of his abilities with Chloe Sullivan before telling Lana the full truth about his Kryptonian origin. However, telling Lana marked a particularly significant moment because of the romantic relationship they shared.
Q2: How did Lana react when Clark first told her?
Lana appeared initially understanding and accepting. There was a sense of relief on her part, as if she had always suspected something extraordinary about Clark. However, this initial acceptance masked a deeper struggle and a growing fear of the implications of his powers.
Q3: What impact did revealing his secret have on their relationship?
While initially strengthening their bond, the revelation ultimately introduced new complexities and challenges. Lana became a target for those seeking to exploit Clark’s abilities, and the constant threat of danger weighed heavily on both of them. The burden of the secret, even when shared, proved difficult to manage.
Q4: Did Lex Luthor know about Clark’s powers before Lana did?
Yes, Lex Luthor suspected and even partially knew about Clark’s abilities long before Clark revealed the truth to Lana. Lex’s experiments with Kryptonite and his obsessive interest in Clark led him to uncover evidence and clues over time.
Q5: Why did Clark choose to tell Lana in “Hydro”?
The events of “Hydro,” particularly Arthur Curry’s arrival and willingness to use his powers openly, likely influenced Clark’s decision. He realized that keeping the secret was no longer sustainable and that Lana deserved to know the truth. The fact that Arthur saved Lana’s life likely played a major role in Clark’s epiphany.
Q6: Did Lana ever use Clark’s powers against him?
Indirectly, yes. After her involvement with Lex and Project 33.1, Lana acquired a suit that absorbed Kryptonite radiation, essentially making her a Kryptonian. She used this suit, though reluctantly, in a battle against Clark, highlighting the destructive potential of his secret.
Q7: What were the consequences of Lana knowing Clark’s secret in the long run?
The consequences were far-reaching. Lana became a target, her life was constantly in danger, and her relationship with Clark was ultimately destroyed by the constant strain and manipulation.
Q8: In what other episodes does Clark consider revealing his secret to Lana?
Throughout the series, there are numerous instances where Clark contemplates telling Lana the truth. These moments often occur during times of crisis or when their relationship deepens. Notable examples include episodes in seasons 2, 3, and 5, where the tension and the pull of the secret are particularly palpable.
Q9: How does Kryptonite affect Lana after she learns about Clark’s secret?
Lana’s proximity to Clark, and therefore to Kryptonite, becomes a recurring issue. While she doesn’t initially experience adverse effects, her later exposure to Kryptonite through Project 33.1 alters her physiology, making her sensitive to it. This further complicates her relationship with Clark.
Q10: Was Lana’s knowledge of Clark’s secret consistent throughout the series?
No. At one point, due to machinations involving Lex Luthor and brainwashing, Lana lost her memory of Clark’s secret. This was a plot device designed to create further drama and tension in their relationship.
Q11: Did the writers ever consider having Clark reveal his secret to Lana earlier in the series?
It’s likely the writers discussed various timelines for the reveal. However, the delayed gratification was a key element in building the show’s tension and prolonging the central romantic conflict.
Q12: Ultimately, did telling Lana his secret help or hurt Clark?
The impact was complex and ultimately negative. While the initial act of honesty brought them closer, the long-term consequences – the constant danger to Lana, the manipulations by Lex, and the eventual breakdown of their relationship – suggest that keeping the secret might have been less damaging overall. It served as a pivotal plot point, adding drama, but ultimately resulted in more pain for both characters.