Have you ever felt the sting of rejection? The way it can make your stomach churn and your heart feel like it’s caught in a vice? We all have, and that’s exactly what Devi Vishwakumar, our beloved protagonist from “Never Have I Ever,” goes through in the heart-wrenching Season 4, Episode 4, “The Common App.” Devi’s journey through the tumultuous waters of senior year, navigating the complex maze of college applications, friendships, and burgeoning romances, takes a sharp turn, forcing her to confront a truth she’s been clinging to: the truth about her feelings for Paxton Hall-Yoshida.
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“Never Have I Ever” is a show that dives deep into the messy, chaotic, and often hilarious realities of teenage life. This episode, in particular, masterfully weaves together themes of heartbreak, self-discovery, and the poignant realization that sometimes, the path to happiness is paved with the stones of rejection.
The Weight of Expectations
Devi’s world has been revolving around college, applications, and the pressure to get into her dream school, Stanford. The episode opens with the daunting task of writing the dreaded “Why This College” essay. She’s pouring over the glossy brochures, desperately trying to find something, anything, that makes Stanford feel like her destiny. But the words feel hollow, and deep down, Devi knows she’s not truly invested in Stanford, she’s invested in the image of success, the validation it represents. The episode beautifully captures the weight of expectations that teenagers feel, the suffocating pressure to live up to the envisioned path set by others.
During the episode, Devi gets caught in a whirlwind of emotions while navigating her life outside of her college obsession, creating a compelling mixture of heartfelt vulnerability and teenage angst.
She’s grappling with the emotional aftermath of her break-up with Paxton, the lingering feelings that still leave her breathless every time she sees him, and now, the crushing rejection from her first-choice college. It’s like a triple whammy of disappointment, leaving her feeling lost and adrift, doubting her own dreams and abilities.
The Comfort of Friends
The episode unfolds as a testament to the power of true friendship. In the face of her emotional turmoil, Devi leans on the steadfast support of her close-knit circle. Eleanor is a beacon of unwavering empathy, offering comfort and practical advice, while Fabiola provides the sharp wit and honest perspective that Devi needs to hear.
There’s a poignant scene where Devi breaks down, telling her friends that she feels like she’s not enough. Eleanor, in her signature bluntness, reminds her that she deserves her happiness and that “being enough” isn’t about pleasing everyone else or fulfilling their expectations. This raw and relatable conversation highlights the vital role friends play, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. Their friendship acts as a safety net, allowing Devi to fall without fear of hitting the ground.
Paxton’s Unspoken Words
The tension between Devi and Paxton has been simmering throughout the season, and in this episode, it reaches a fever pitch. While Devi is wrestling with her college applications and emotional turmoil, Paxton is struggling with his own feelings. He confesses to his best friend, Trent, that he’s still madly in love with Devi. But he’s terrified to go back to her, haunted by the fear that their relationship is doomed.
Paxton’s emotional turmoil, his struggle between love and fear, is a powerful reminder of the complexities of love. His inability to voice his feelings, to bridge the gap between them, adds to the tension. The episode masterfully allows the unspoken words to reverberate, adding an extra layer of vulnerability and heartbreak to their already complicated relationship.
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Turning Point and New Beginnings
The episode culminates in a pivotal moment. Devi, after countless pep talks from her friends, realizes that her love for Paxton is blinding her to the possibilities that lie beyond. She rejects the application letter she wrote for Stanford, embracing the opportunity of a fresh start at a new school, one where she can explore who she truly is, outside the pressure of societal expectations and the memories of her failed relationship.
This courageous decision, though tinged with sadness, signifies Devi’s remarkable growth. She is finally prioritizing her own well-being, choosing a path that is true to her heart, even if it means walking away from a dream she once held so tightly.
Never Have I Ever Season 4 Episode 4
Lessons Learned
“Never Have I Ever” Season 4, Episode 4, “The Common App,” is a masterclass in emotional storytelling. It tackles universal themes of heartbreak, self-discovery, and the relentless pressure of societal expectations with a refreshing blend of humor and sincerity. The episode leaves viewers with a poignant message: sometimes, the best path forward is not the one we initially envisioned. It’s the one we choose, even when it scares us. It’s about being brave enough to let go of what we think we should want and embrace the unknown, trusting in ourselves, and trusting in the possibility of finding happiness even when it’s wrapped in unexpected packages.
In the end, “Never Have I Ever” is a show that celebrates the complexity of human emotions and reminds us that even in the face of our deepest fears, there is always the potential for growth, healing, and a renewed sense of hope. And so, as Season 4 continues, we are left with a hopeful anticipation for Devi’s journey, a journey that is just beginning.
