Tweet
Posted by Barrett<script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,5,12,26,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> (Member # 67) on 05-09-2005 19:26<noscript>September 05, 2005 12:26 PM</noscript>:
Who would have ever imagined that a TV show would generate so much interest amongst the PTs on a discussion list? As I teach around the country I always ask, “Who watches House? And invariably get a few enthusiastic replies, usually including unabashed admiration for the lead character, despite (and even because of) his flaws. Anyway, it happened, and Season Two of House begins on Fox TV Tuesday September 6 at 9PM.
If you look at the original thread here in the Bullypit you’ll see that the discussion ranges widely, drawing us toward an ever greater understanding of, well, all kinds of stuff.
Tomorrow night let’s start it again.
<hr> Posted by Chris Adams (Member # 3013) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,5,14,30,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 05-09-2005 21:30<noscript>September 05, 2005 02:30 PM</noscript>:
<hr> Posted by Barrett (Member # 67) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,5,14,48,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 05-09-2005 21:48<noscript>September 05, 2005 02:48 PM</noscript>:
Oh.
Please refer to Emily Letilla on this one.
<hr> Posted by Barrett (Member # 67) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,14,6,19,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 14-09-2005 13:19<noscript>September 14, 2005 06:19 AM</noscript>:
The first episode of the season contained several elements we are familiar with-House takes a couple of pain pills just before entering the administrator’s office, signaling both his discomfort and his continuing addiction-names are used to indicate something about the character we might otherwise not know (Dr. Nolo for example, House’s rival for the patient at the beginning. “Nolo” means “no” or “nothing,” if I’ve got my Latin right, and indicates how much difficulty House will have getting rid of him). The ball shows up in a scene near the end, one color this year, and in the midst of a conversation between House and his ex-girlfriend. He had played her like a fiddle earlier in the show-maybe he’s making the point that he can do this again.
The warden takes House’s cane from him “so nobody gets hurt” yet doesn’t indicate who that might be. Perhaps his years of working with angry and frustrated men has helped him recognize House when he shows up.
There’s more. Abductive reasoning dominates the diagnostic process, Cameron, the young female physician, has yet to develop any sort of poker face and cannot bring herself to detach from patients she likes, The Australian is sent to the “big house” to discover something about the patient we can only find there, and the African American doctor is once again forced to look at his own prejudices. These all serve to inform us that the show is essentially unchanged, especially House himself. Well, he seems to dress even less formally. What did his shirt say? “Old so…”?
My favorite line-Convict in pain: “I feel like I’m getting stabbed!” House: “Well, he’d know.”
Two things. House is told by his friend that whether he wants to or not, he needs others-if only for future help. And House listens.
Perhaps more prescient of this season, the word “depression” is twice displayed prominently on screen, and though House erases the word “acceptance” with his final move, “depression” remains.
<hr> Posted by paulpt (Member # 5125) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,14,12,59,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 14-09-2005 19:59<noscript>September 14, 2005 12:59 PM</noscript>:
Barrett: the whole stages of dealing with death was a key concept. That is, each character, save for the Aussie, was dealing with these issues in a sort of parallel manner.
The African-American doc treated the convict exactly as House treats him. He was also going through the stages, but he is stuck on bargaining. He will testify in favor of the man he puts down.
House is stuck in depression, although acceptance was marked off his list. I took that to indicate he is in a state of acceptance as it relates to his ex-wife's presence in the building. There was a quote by House that addressed that issue. He did spend much time bargaining, in terms of clinic hours with his staff.
The female doc treated the terminal patient exactly as she would like to be treated. The patient, in her opinion, needed a friend. We are told that she DID marry the hubby so he would not have to die alone, and that when someone nice dies, the world should notice. This serves a powerful lesson for me, that the health care provider has feelings too. In this case, it almost appears that the doctor needs the patient as much as she is needed. And House demands that she confront this issue, perhaps not so she can grow as a professional, but because she needs to emotionallly go through with the circumstance.
The ball was large and red, with grey baseball style markings. This might mean something, or merely coincidence. He did not bounce the ball off the floor or wall in solitude. So House has changed, but only a little.
Ethical issues are introduced, well, new ones.
Does a death row inmate deserve health care? How much? When?
Does the crime s/he committed entitle or deny access to care?
Does a biological explanation for his rage episodes serve to change our view of him as a murderer?
Just a quick note to thank Barrett for his interest in the topic!
<hr> Posted by paulpt (Member # 5125) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,15,10,52,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 15-09-2005 17:52<noscript>September 15, 2005 10:52 AM</noscript>:
I watched House again, noting that the large red abll was used while others were watching. In the first season, he used a smaller ball, when in solitude. Perhaps that might mean that his thinking is skewed somehow by the presence of others.
<hr> Posted by Sarah C. (Member # 4115) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,18,11,56,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 18-09-2005 18:56<noscript>September 18, 2005 11:56 AM</noscript>:
I think one of the themes is that we all need other people, whether we like it or not. Finally got around to watching this episode yesterday on tape. I wondered why Cuddy has started dressing like a puritan when she used to wear such revealing clothes. Could it be the altered dynamic between she and House now that his ex-girlfriend is in the picture? The issue of trust also surfaces between House and his ex. The main theme is that people will do what they think is right in the end.
I liked how House said he is intrigued by anamolies....things that don't fit. Thought he was a little too cheeky this episode, even for House. Didn't like Dr. Cameron in this episode....she has issues....
Sarah
<hr> Posted by Jon Newman (Member # 3148) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,25,11,11,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 25-09-2005 18:11<noscript>September 25, 2005 11:11 AM</noscript>:
I thought this week's episode was more complicated than most. In general life/death and value/meaning were center stage, not lies and deceit. The show did have its usual allusions and artistic cuts from scene to scene which simply makes the show a pleasure to watch (you know, if you're not lazy).
While the title of the episode, Autopsy, was explicitly covered by the theatrical procedure directed by House, I think the implicit autopsy was House's introspection. This was captured in the last scenes of the show when Wilson questions House about what he's done lately after illustrating that the girl had stole a kiss from Chase. Wilson states, "she may out live you". I don't think this meant in a temporal sense. The last scene of the episode has House allowing himself, after initial hesitation, the curiosity of riding a motorcycle. Although the camera work suggested to me that the riding was done in House's usual self destructive manner.
If I'm not mistaken the song beginning and ending the episode is by Christina Aguilera.
Spoken:
Don't look at me
Every day is so wonderful
And suddenly, i saw debris
Now and then, I get insecure
From all the pain, I'm so ashamed
I am beautiful no matter what they say
Words can't bring me down
I am beautiful in every single way
Yes, words can't bring me down
So don't you bring me down today
To all your friends, you're delirious
So consumed in all your doom
Trying hard to fill the emptiness
The piece is gone left the puzzle undone
That's the way it is
You are beautiful no matter what they say
Words can't bring you down
You are beautiful in every single way
Yes, words can't bring you down
Don't you bring me down today...
No matter what we do
(no matter what we do)
No matter what they say
(no matter what they say)
When the sun is shining through
Then the clouds won't stay
And everywhere we go
(everywhere we go)
The sun won't always shine
(sun won't always shine)
But tomorrow will find a way
All the other times
'cause we are beautiful no matter what they say
Yes, words won't bring us down, oh no
We are beautiful in every single way
Yes, words can't bring us down
Don't you bring me down today
Don't you bring me down today
Don't you bring me down today
jon
<hr> Posted by Barrett (Member # 67) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,25,17,16,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 26-09-2005 00:16<noscript>September 25, 2005 05:16 PM</noscript>:
I watched this episode and made some notes but found nothing all that compelling. Now, a few days later after reading Jon’s post I have the sense that I’ve begun to take some parts of the show for granted. It’s got what it always had, and few others on TV can match it.
House’s friend the oncologist makes his medicine (for the sinus condition) available and, again, leads him toward some insight into his own personality and motivation. Perhaps that’s his role this season.
House continues to look for answers to mysterious pathology in behavior to which he cannot relate or understand. This time the bravery of the little girl is not a consequence of her brain lesion, but without this search for it she wouldn’t have been helped. The ball appeared in conjunction with a song very like a lullaby. I don’t know what it means, but I liked it for some reason.
Aside from this, the show was great product placement for the new IPod.
<hr> Posted by Jon Newman (Member # 3148) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,25,21,54,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 26-09-2005 04:54<noscript>September 25, 2005 09:54 PM</noscript>:
I was trying to ignore the product placement. I guess everyone needs to make some money.
I should have realized the theme of the show with House's T-shirt. It depicted skulls and flowers, a common theme for Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico.
jon
<hr> Posted by paulpt (Member # 5125) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,26,9,38,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 26-09-2005 16:38<noscript>September 26, 2005 09:38 AM</noscript>:
Jon pegged the issue about 'outliving' House. The end of this show contrasted one from early last season when he watched a young man he had cured play lacrosse. The final scene saw house DOING rathen than observing.
<hr> Posted by Sarah C. (Member # 4115) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,28,15,52,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 28-09-2005 22:52<noscript>September 28, 2005 03:52 PM</noscript>:
Did they get different writers this season, or is it my imagination? I haven't been able to get into the shows as much as last season...seems to be more about interpersonal relationships (boy likes girl, etc) and witty but meaningless remarks, than reasoning, human behavior and symbolism. Hope it's not turning into another ER. House himself is starting to get on my nerves. I'm very disappointed. First Smallville took a turn for the worst, now this. I still have hope for LOST.
Sarah
<hr> Posted by paulpt (Member # 5125) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,30,13,48,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 30-09-2005 20:48<noscript>September 30, 2005 01:48 PM</noscript>:
My wife essentially said the same thing. I wonder how 24 is going to be without Jack Bauer.
<hr> Posted by Barrett (Member # 67) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,1,15,5,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 01-10-2005 22:05<noscript>October 01, 2005 03:05 PM</noscript>:
I finally watched this week’s episode and spent the last day thinking about it. What I normally find to be cohesive in the writing seems to be lacking, but often as I write about things my opinion changes, so we’ll see if that happens here.
I noticed two statements early in the show that I’m pretty sure are untrue-both said by the hospital’s lawyer, House’s former roommate. She tells Cuddy not to apologize to the patient whose illness is her fault and responsibility because she feels it would enhance the likelihood of a lawsuit. My understanding is that studies indicate the opposite; that the absence of the physician’s presence in such circumstances leads to a lawsuit, and that’s exactly what happens.
The second statement to Cuddy: “You care about this patient more (than House does) so your judgment is worth more.” Isn’t it likely to be less accurate when you’re personally involved? Turns out, Cuddy is wrong. I noticed two other conversations between these women that were circuitous and essentially worthless. Is this meaningful, prescient of some theme this season or just bad writing? I guess this remains to be seen.
Repeatedly in this episode findings are blown out of proportion and thus an inappropriate and damaging treatment is initiated. These red herrings form a large portion of every episode of House and remind us how it’s important not to grow enamored of any finding to the point of being blinded by it. Just look what postural exam has done for us in therapy.
House’s juggling one-handed (after his patient has his hand amputated) and his playing with the yo-yo might have been compelling if presented differently, but the direction and dialogue didn’t support it. He should have at least been made to use his left hand-that's what the patient has remaining. In the end, I was left feeling nothing.
Maybe the producers will do better next week-I’m not ready to give up on it yet.
<hr> Posted by Diane (Member # 1064) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,2,10,13,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 02-10-2005 17:13<noscript>October 02, 2005 10:13 AM</noscript>:
I'm finished with House. Breaking into Cuddy's house to snoop through her underwear drawer in hopes of finding red thongs was the last straw. The writers have gone off the rails.
<hr> Posted by Sarah C. (Member # 4115) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,2,11,12,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 02-10-2005 18:12<noscript>October 02, 2005 11:12 AM</noscript>:
Diane,
Didn't you just start watching it, or have you been watching from season one? Anyway, I agree that the writing was too scandalous even for House. Searching people's homes has always been one of House's strategies, but he made a lot of very poor conclusions in my opinion like thinking that a little spot of black mold under Cuddy's bathroom sink could affect a guy working on her roof.
Then the writers had to throw in the whole side story about the black patient who didn't want "black" medicine and Foreman's accusations of racism. I was watching it thinking, "What?". I thought maybe it was just me, or the fact that we weren't getting the succinct reviews from Barrett as readily, illustrating the nuances and symbolism that we might have missed. Nope.
I might give it another try, but I'm not holding my breath....
Sarah
<hr> Posted by Yogi (Member # 3083) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,2,13,14,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 02-10-2005 20:14<noscript>October 02, 2005 01:14 PM</noscript>:
I thought the black medicine thing was a good comment on the ridiculosities of some Katrina events. The same sort of stupidities are/were espoused by national leaders on the daily news.
House was just as befuddled by the interpretation of his action as I was by the interpretation of Katrina events.
That was the best writing in the whole show, hundreds of years of history and current events and the reality of racial relations today put into truth in what, 3 minutes. That's genius.
<hr> Posted by Jon Newman (Member # 3148) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,2,15,31,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 02-10-2005 22:31<noscript>October 02, 2005 03:31 PM</noscript>:
While that discussion used racism as the vehicle, the theme that popped into my head was that of patient autonomy. I'm not sure racism was the motivating force behind House's decision as this type of maneuver is typical of House. That is, he gets patients to do what's best for them whether they want it or not by whatever means necessary--often the patient provide the means. In this case the patient's own conception of 'how things work'. House is the epitome of paternalism. Now, if he was only paternalistic to non-whites, that I think, would be racist.
jon
<hr> Posted by Jon Newman (Member # 3148) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,2,20,23,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 03-10-2005 03:23<noscript>October 02, 2005 08:23 PM</noscript>:
I disagree that the writing is suffering. I'll admit, this episode was much more humorous and shallow than many. For example, there were many scenes depicting all three women in the show positioning for House's favor. Perhaps this is what people are noticing.
To try to support my contention that the writing isn't suffering, consider the title of this episode, Humpty Dumpty. Then this (by Lewis Carroll, Through the Looking-Glass, 190):
The exchange between Foreman and House explored autonomy in guise of racism and later there was an exchange between Cuddy and House exploring racism in the guise of autonomy. House insists that they must amputate the patient's hand and Cuddy states that the patient won't be able to work, "He's not like us", she states. House replies "Can't work as a cripple?" Cuddy of course did not mean "as a cripple". Brilliant if you ask me.
There was plenty more topics explored including guilt and narcissism clouding clinical judgement. Barrett has already covered this. Also, Cuddy suffers guilt because she couldn't make the diagnosis sooner. Wilson and House know she couldn't. But neither could House and he doesn't feel guilty.
Interestingly, in the beginning of the show Cuddy and her worker (Alfredo) argue about getting a job done. Cuddy uses the reason that it might rain. Alfredo says, 'there are no clouds'. In the end she was right but doesn't seem to feel good about that either.
jon
<hr> Posted by Yogi (Member # 3083) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,3,9,43,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 03-10-2005 16:43<noscript>October 03, 2005 09:43 AM</noscript>:
Jon, quite true, it fits House's style. He still seemed taken aback at what's his names reaction, which is I think a fairly common feeling, these days. His non-comment I think was exactly the piece of genius writing that really made the "side story" work. House may be stymied much of the time, but this is the first for befuddlement, I think.
I can relate to that since I'm befuddled much, if not most, of the time.
<hr> Posted by paulpt (Member # 5125) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,3,12,29,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 03-10-2005 19:29<noscript>October 03, 2005 12:29 PM</noscript>:
I believe that the chartacter of House has been replayed out so many times over that they are attempting to break new ground with the other characters. The characters are less compelling than House, and the story lines are then weakened.
I must note that in the end, Cuddy's house did get rained on. Makes me wonder what my wife has in mind when she demands that risky tasks get done - TODAY - in case it rains, even though there are no clouds. And it offers me yet another reason to spend less time on the ladder at home.
<hr> Posted by Barrett (Member # 67) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,10,3,12,15,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 03-11-2005 19:15<noscript>November 03, 2005 12:15 PM</noscript>:
Either this show has continued its decline or I’m not sharp enough to figure out what it’s trying to say subtly, and it was that subtlety that I found so compelling in the past. Instead, I find myself grasping at anything clever that might mature into an insight worthy of our hero. Maybe something will come to me as I write this. It wouldn’t be the first time.
The lead from “Office Space,” a great flick from ’99 I’d recommend, Ron Livingston plays a seemingly selfless physician devoted to the people in Africa who suffer from tuberculosis. He tirelessly campaigns for funds and talks continuously of the needless death from a treatable disease. He’s a saint, apparently. Of course, House loathes him.
He collapses while at a meeting with pharmaceutical reps and executives. With supreme irony someone shouts out, “Aren’t there any doctors here?”
Disliking the thing in others that we deny in ourselves is a fairly well-known psychological dynamic and if this is all the writers have managed to show us in this episode I’m still thinking they aren’t doing enough. Perhaps there’s more and someone else here can see it. This episode seemed to be mainly about what something isn’t-though it seems initially that it must be what it is eventually shown not to be. Of course, that’s nothing new for this show.
My favorite line: From House, “Bizarre is good. Common has hundreds of explanations-bizarre has hardly any.”
So true.
<hr> Posted by paulpt (Member # 5125) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,10,16,8,54,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 16-11-2005 15:54<noscript>November 16, 2005 08:54 AM</noscript>:
If anyone saw last evening's show, I felt it was the best one this season. No spoilers, but just an excellent show that seems to have gotten back to the concepts that made the show interesting. Topics included a re-emergence of the ex-wife, her current husband and HIS recovery. Probably the best was the ex-wife of House explaining that she still loves House and her current husband, but she loves her husband.
Cameron and House's pal (oncologist) spent a lot of dialogue and more insight into Cam's past is brought up, including how she began getting feelings for his best friend as they went through the stages of grief together. Loosely, this fits into House's attendance at group therapy sessions, to deal with his grief. Coincidentally, his ex-wife's husband is in the therapeutic group.
The medical aspect of the show was fascinating, actually a failure to consider his non-hospital lifestyle, in which he receives frequent blood transfusions and hyperbaric Oxygen for his training regimen. Cameron calls that cheating, and discusses this with, of all people, the oncologist.
Much better episode, all told.
<hr> Posted by Sarah C. (Member # 4115) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,10,16,13,48,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 16-11-2005 20:48<noscript>November 16, 2005 01:48 PM</noscript>:
I liked the last couple episodes much more than at the beginning of the season. I think House went to the group therapy just to irritate Stacey's husband. Cameron is an idealist with a very rigid standard of ethics (I can relate). House obviously has a different ethical viewpoint, especially when he rummages through confidential files of Stacey's therapy sessions. Too tired to remember any cool lines, but overall I thought the theme was: when is it okay to lie to the ones we love, and when does love become an obsession?
Sarah
<hr> Posted by paulpt (Member # 5125) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,10,22,7,0,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 22-11-2005 14:00<noscript>November 22, 2005 07:00 AM</noscript>:
Tonight I will be hosting a House party, any suggestions for the event?
Who would have ever imagined that a TV show would generate so much interest amongst the PTs on a discussion list? As I teach around the country I always ask, “Who watches House? And invariably get a few enthusiastic replies, usually including unabashed admiration for the lead character, despite (and even because of) his flaws. Anyway, it happened, and Season Two of House begins on Fox TV Tuesday September 6 at 9PM.
If you look at the original thread here in the Bullypit you’ll see that the discussion ranges widely, drawing us toward an ever greater understanding of, well, all kinds of stuff.
Tomorrow night let’s start it again.
<hr> Posted by Chris Adams (Member # 3013) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,5,14,30,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 05-09-2005 21:30<noscript>September 05, 2005 02:30 PM</noscript>:
quote: <hr> ...Season Two of House begins on Fox TV Tuesday September 6 at 9PM. <hr>
Actually, it begins on the 13th. [IMG]smile.gif[/IMG] <hr> Posted by Barrett (Member # 67) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,5,14,48,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 05-09-2005 21:48<noscript>September 05, 2005 02:48 PM</noscript>:
Oh.
Please refer to Emily Letilla on this one.
<hr> Posted by Barrett (Member # 67) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,14,6,19,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 14-09-2005 13:19<noscript>September 14, 2005 06:19 AM</noscript>:
The first episode of the season contained several elements we are familiar with-House takes a couple of pain pills just before entering the administrator’s office, signaling both his discomfort and his continuing addiction-names are used to indicate something about the character we might otherwise not know (Dr. Nolo for example, House’s rival for the patient at the beginning. “Nolo” means “no” or “nothing,” if I’ve got my Latin right, and indicates how much difficulty House will have getting rid of him). The ball shows up in a scene near the end, one color this year, and in the midst of a conversation between House and his ex-girlfriend. He had played her like a fiddle earlier in the show-maybe he’s making the point that he can do this again.
The warden takes House’s cane from him “so nobody gets hurt” yet doesn’t indicate who that might be. Perhaps his years of working with angry and frustrated men has helped him recognize House when he shows up.
There’s more. Abductive reasoning dominates the diagnostic process, Cameron, the young female physician, has yet to develop any sort of poker face and cannot bring herself to detach from patients she likes, The Australian is sent to the “big house” to discover something about the patient we can only find there, and the African American doctor is once again forced to look at his own prejudices. These all serve to inform us that the show is essentially unchanged, especially House himself. Well, he seems to dress even less formally. What did his shirt say? “Old so…”?
My favorite line-Convict in pain: “I feel like I’m getting stabbed!” House: “Well, he’d know.”
Two things. House is told by his friend that whether he wants to or not, he needs others-if only for future help. And House listens.
Perhaps more prescient of this season, the word “depression” is twice displayed prominently on screen, and though House erases the word “acceptance” with his final move, “depression” remains.
<hr> Posted by paulpt (Member # 5125) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,14,12,59,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 14-09-2005 19:59<noscript>September 14, 2005 12:59 PM</noscript>:
Barrett: the whole stages of dealing with death was a key concept. That is, each character, save for the Aussie, was dealing with these issues in a sort of parallel manner.
The African-American doc treated the convict exactly as House treats him. He was also going through the stages, but he is stuck on bargaining. He will testify in favor of the man he puts down.
House is stuck in depression, although acceptance was marked off his list. I took that to indicate he is in a state of acceptance as it relates to his ex-wife's presence in the building. There was a quote by House that addressed that issue. He did spend much time bargaining, in terms of clinic hours with his staff.
The female doc treated the terminal patient exactly as she would like to be treated. The patient, in her opinion, needed a friend. We are told that she DID marry the hubby so he would not have to die alone, and that when someone nice dies, the world should notice. This serves a powerful lesson for me, that the health care provider has feelings too. In this case, it almost appears that the doctor needs the patient as much as she is needed. And House demands that she confront this issue, perhaps not so she can grow as a professional, but because she needs to emotionallly go through with the circumstance.
The ball was large and red, with grey baseball style markings. This might mean something, or merely coincidence. He did not bounce the ball off the floor or wall in solitude. So House has changed, but only a little.
Ethical issues are introduced, well, new ones.
Does a death row inmate deserve health care? How much? When?
Does the crime s/he committed entitle or deny access to care?
Does a biological explanation for his rage episodes serve to change our view of him as a murderer?
Just a quick note to thank Barrett for his interest in the topic!
<hr> Posted by paulpt (Member # 5125) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,15,10,52,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 15-09-2005 17:52<noscript>September 15, 2005 10:52 AM</noscript>:
I watched House again, noting that the large red abll was used while others were watching. In the first season, he used a smaller ball, when in solitude. Perhaps that might mean that his thinking is skewed somehow by the presence of others.
<hr> Posted by Sarah C. (Member # 4115) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,18,11,56,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 18-09-2005 18:56<noscript>September 18, 2005 11:56 AM</noscript>:
I think one of the themes is that we all need other people, whether we like it or not. Finally got around to watching this episode yesterday on tape. I wondered why Cuddy has started dressing like a puritan when she used to wear such revealing clothes. Could it be the altered dynamic between she and House now that his ex-girlfriend is in the picture? The issue of trust also surfaces between House and his ex. The main theme is that people will do what they think is right in the end.
I liked how House said he is intrigued by anamolies....things that don't fit. Thought he was a little too cheeky this episode, even for House. Didn't like Dr. Cameron in this episode....she has issues....
Sarah
<hr> Posted by Jon Newman (Member # 3148) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,25,11,11,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 25-09-2005 18:11<noscript>September 25, 2005 11:11 AM</noscript>:
I thought this week's episode was more complicated than most. In general life/death and value/meaning were center stage, not lies and deceit. The show did have its usual allusions and artistic cuts from scene to scene which simply makes the show a pleasure to watch (you know, if you're not lazy).
While the title of the episode, Autopsy, was explicitly covered by the theatrical procedure directed by House, I think the implicit autopsy was House's introspection. This was captured in the last scenes of the show when Wilson questions House about what he's done lately after illustrating that the girl had stole a kiss from Chase. Wilson states, "she may out live you". I don't think this meant in a temporal sense. The last scene of the episode has House allowing himself, after initial hesitation, the curiosity of riding a motorcycle. Although the camera work suggested to me that the riding was done in House's usual self destructive manner.
If I'm not mistaken the song beginning and ending the episode is by Christina Aguilera.
Spoken:
Don't look at me
Every day is so wonderful
And suddenly, i saw debris
Now and then, I get insecure
From all the pain, I'm so ashamed
I am beautiful no matter what they say
Words can't bring me down
I am beautiful in every single way
Yes, words can't bring me down
So don't you bring me down today
To all your friends, you're delirious
So consumed in all your doom
Trying hard to fill the emptiness
The piece is gone left the puzzle undone
That's the way it is
You are beautiful no matter what they say
Words can't bring you down
You are beautiful in every single way
Yes, words can't bring you down
Don't you bring me down today...
No matter what we do
(no matter what we do)
No matter what they say
(no matter what they say)
When the sun is shining through
Then the clouds won't stay
And everywhere we go
(everywhere we go)
The sun won't always shine
(sun won't always shine)
But tomorrow will find a way
All the other times
'cause we are beautiful no matter what they say
Yes, words won't bring us down, oh no
We are beautiful in every single way
Yes, words can't bring us down
Don't you bring me down today
Don't you bring me down today
Don't you bring me down today
jon
<hr> Posted by Barrett (Member # 67) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,25,17,16,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 26-09-2005 00:16<noscript>September 25, 2005 05:16 PM</noscript>:
I watched this episode and made some notes but found nothing all that compelling. Now, a few days later after reading Jon’s post I have the sense that I’ve begun to take some parts of the show for granted. It’s got what it always had, and few others on TV can match it.
House’s friend the oncologist makes his medicine (for the sinus condition) available and, again, leads him toward some insight into his own personality and motivation. Perhaps that’s his role this season.
House continues to look for answers to mysterious pathology in behavior to which he cannot relate or understand. This time the bravery of the little girl is not a consequence of her brain lesion, but without this search for it she wouldn’t have been helped. The ball appeared in conjunction with a song very like a lullaby. I don’t know what it means, but I liked it for some reason.
Aside from this, the show was great product placement for the new IPod.
<hr> Posted by Jon Newman (Member # 3148) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,25,21,54,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 26-09-2005 04:54<noscript>September 25, 2005 09:54 PM</noscript>:
I was trying to ignore the product placement. I guess everyone needs to make some money.
I should have realized the theme of the show with House's T-shirt. It depicted skulls and flowers, a common theme for Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico.
jon
<hr> Posted by paulpt (Member # 5125) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,26,9,38,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 26-09-2005 16:38<noscript>September 26, 2005 09:38 AM</noscript>:
Jon pegged the issue about 'outliving' House. The end of this show contrasted one from early last season when he watched a young man he had cured play lacrosse. The final scene saw house DOING rathen than observing.
<hr> Posted by Sarah C. (Member # 4115) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,28,15,52,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 28-09-2005 22:52<noscript>September 28, 2005 03:52 PM</noscript>:
Did they get different writers this season, or is it my imagination? I haven't been able to get into the shows as much as last season...seems to be more about interpersonal relationships (boy likes girl, etc) and witty but meaningless remarks, than reasoning, human behavior and symbolism. Hope it's not turning into another ER. House himself is starting to get on my nerves. I'm very disappointed. First Smallville took a turn for the worst, now this. I still have hope for LOST.
Sarah
<hr> Posted by paulpt (Member # 5125) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,8,30,13,48,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 30-09-2005 20:48<noscript>September 30, 2005 01:48 PM</noscript>:
My wife essentially said the same thing. I wonder how 24 is going to be without Jack Bauer.
<hr> Posted by Barrett (Member # 67) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,1,15,5,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 01-10-2005 22:05<noscript>October 01, 2005 03:05 PM</noscript>:
I finally watched this week’s episode and spent the last day thinking about it. What I normally find to be cohesive in the writing seems to be lacking, but often as I write about things my opinion changes, so we’ll see if that happens here.
I noticed two statements early in the show that I’m pretty sure are untrue-both said by the hospital’s lawyer, House’s former roommate. She tells Cuddy not to apologize to the patient whose illness is her fault and responsibility because she feels it would enhance the likelihood of a lawsuit. My understanding is that studies indicate the opposite; that the absence of the physician’s presence in such circumstances leads to a lawsuit, and that’s exactly what happens.
The second statement to Cuddy: “You care about this patient more (than House does) so your judgment is worth more.” Isn’t it likely to be less accurate when you’re personally involved? Turns out, Cuddy is wrong. I noticed two other conversations between these women that were circuitous and essentially worthless. Is this meaningful, prescient of some theme this season or just bad writing? I guess this remains to be seen.
Repeatedly in this episode findings are blown out of proportion and thus an inappropriate and damaging treatment is initiated. These red herrings form a large portion of every episode of House and remind us how it’s important not to grow enamored of any finding to the point of being blinded by it. Just look what postural exam has done for us in therapy.
House’s juggling one-handed (after his patient has his hand amputated) and his playing with the yo-yo might have been compelling if presented differently, but the direction and dialogue didn’t support it. He should have at least been made to use his left hand-that's what the patient has remaining. In the end, I was left feeling nothing.
Maybe the producers will do better next week-I’m not ready to give up on it yet.
<hr> Posted by Diane (Member # 1064) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,2,10,13,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 02-10-2005 17:13<noscript>October 02, 2005 10:13 AM</noscript>:
I'm finished with House. Breaking into Cuddy's house to snoop through her underwear drawer in hopes of finding red thongs was the last straw. The writers have gone off the rails.
<hr> Posted by Sarah C. (Member # 4115) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,2,11,12,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 02-10-2005 18:12<noscript>October 02, 2005 11:12 AM</noscript>:
Diane,
Didn't you just start watching it, or have you been watching from season one? Anyway, I agree that the writing was too scandalous even for House. Searching people's homes has always been one of House's strategies, but he made a lot of very poor conclusions in my opinion like thinking that a little spot of black mold under Cuddy's bathroom sink could affect a guy working on her roof.
Then the writers had to throw in the whole side story about the black patient who didn't want "black" medicine and Foreman's accusations of racism. I was watching it thinking, "What?". I thought maybe it was just me, or the fact that we weren't getting the succinct reviews from Barrett as readily, illustrating the nuances and symbolism that we might have missed. Nope.
I might give it another try, but I'm not holding my breath....
Sarah
<hr> Posted by Yogi (Member # 3083) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,2,13,14,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 02-10-2005 20:14<noscript>October 02, 2005 01:14 PM</noscript>:
I thought the black medicine thing was a good comment on the ridiculosities of some Katrina events. The same sort of stupidities are/were espoused by national leaders on the daily news.
House was just as befuddled by the interpretation of his action as I was by the interpretation of Katrina events.
That was the best writing in the whole show, hundreds of years of history and current events and the reality of racial relations today put into truth in what, 3 minutes. That's genius.
<hr> Posted by Jon Newman (Member # 3148) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,2,15,31,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 02-10-2005 22:31<noscript>October 02, 2005 03:31 PM</noscript>:
While that discussion used racism as the vehicle, the theme that popped into my head was that of patient autonomy. I'm not sure racism was the motivating force behind House's decision as this type of maneuver is typical of House. That is, he gets patients to do what's best for them whether they want it or not by whatever means necessary--often the patient provide the means. In this case the patient's own conception of 'how things work'. House is the epitome of paternalism. Now, if he was only paternalistic to non-whites, that I think, would be racist.
jon
<hr> Posted by Jon Newman (Member # 3148) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,2,20,23,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 03-10-2005 03:23<noscript>October 02, 2005 08:23 PM</noscript>:
I disagree that the writing is suffering. I'll admit, this episode was much more humorous and shallow than many. For example, there were many scenes depicting all three women in the show positioning for House's favor. Perhaps this is what people are noticing.
To try to support my contention that the writing isn't suffering, consider the title of this episode, Humpty Dumpty. Then this (by Lewis Carroll, Through the Looking-Glass, 190):
quote: <hr> When I use a word,' Humpty Dumpty said in rather a scornful tone, 'it means just what I choose it to mean-neither more nor less.'
'The question is,' said Alice, 'whether you can make words mean so many different things.'
'The question is,' said Humpty Dumpty, 'which is to be master-that's all. <hr>
There is, in this exchange, an element of autonomy and paternalism. I realized this only after my previous post. 'The question is,' said Alice, 'whether you can make words mean so many different things.'
'The question is,' said Humpty Dumpty, 'which is to be master-that's all. <hr>
The exchange between Foreman and House explored autonomy in guise of racism and later there was an exchange between Cuddy and House exploring racism in the guise of autonomy. House insists that they must amputate the patient's hand and Cuddy states that the patient won't be able to work, "He's not like us", she states. House replies "Can't work as a cripple?" Cuddy of course did not mean "as a cripple". Brilliant if you ask me.
There was plenty more topics explored including guilt and narcissism clouding clinical judgement. Barrett has already covered this. Also, Cuddy suffers guilt because she couldn't make the diagnosis sooner. Wilson and House know she couldn't. But neither could House and he doesn't feel guilty.
Interestingly, in the beginning of the show Cuddy and her worker (Alfredo) argue about getting a job done. Cuddy uses the reason that it might rain. Alfredo says, 'there are no clouds'. In the end she was right but doesn't seem to feel good about that either.
jon
<hr> Posted by Yogi (Member # 3083) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,3,9,43,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 03-10-2005 16:43<noscript>October 03, 2005 09:43 AM</noscript>:
Jon, quite true, it fits House's style. He still seemed taken aback at what's his names reaction, which is I think a fairly common feeling, these days. His non-comment I think was exactly the piece of genius writing that really made the "side story" work. House may be stymied much of the time, but this is the first for befuddlement, I think.
I can relate to that since I'm befuddled much, if not most, of the time.
<hr> Posted by paulpt (Member # 5125) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,9,3,12,29,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 03-10-2005 19:29<noscript>October 03, 2005 12:29 PM</noscript>:
I believe that the chartacter of House has been replayed out so many times over that they are attempting to break new ground with the other characters. The characters are less compelling than House, and the story lines are then weakened.
I must note that in the end, Cuddy's house did get rained on. Makes me wonder what my wife has in mind when she demands that risky tasks get done - TODAY - in case it rains, even though there are no clouds. And it offers me yet another reason to spend less time on the ladder at home.
<hr> Posted by Barrett (Member # 67) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,10,3,12,15,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 03-11-2005 19:15<noscript>November 03, 2005 12:15 PM</noscript>:
Either this show has continued its decline or I’m not sharp enough to figure out what it’s trying to say subtly, and it was that subtlety that I found so compelling in the past. Instead, I find myself grasping at anything clever that might mature into an insight worthy of our hero. Maybe something will come to me as I write this. It wouldn’t be the first time.
The lead from “Office Space,” a great flick from ’99 I’d recommend, Ron Livingston plays a seemingly selfless physician devoted to the people in Africa who suffer from tuberculosis. He tirelessly campaigns for funds and talks continuously of the needless death from a treatable disease. He’s a saint, apparently. Of course, House loathes him.
He collapses while at a meeting with pharmaceutical reps and executives. With supreme irony someone shouts out, “Aren’t there any doctors here?”
Disliking the thing in others that we deny in ourselves is a fairly well-known psychological dynamic and if this is all the writers have managed to show us in this episode I’m still thinking they aren’t doing enough. Perhaps there’s more and someone else here can see it. This episode seemed to be mainly about what something isn’t-though it seems initially that it must be what it is eventually shown not to be. Of course, that’s nothing new for this show.
My favorite line: From House, “Bizarre is good. Common has hundreds of explanations-bizarre has hardly any.”
So true.
<hr> Posted by paulpt (Member # 5125) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,10,16,8,54,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 16-11-2005 15:54<noscript>November 16, 2005 08:54 AM</noscript>:
If anyone saw last evening's show, I felt it was the best one this season. No spoilers, but just an excellent show that seems to have gotten back to the concepts that made the show interesting. Topics included a re-emergence of the ex-wife, her current husband and HIS recovery. Probably the best was the ex-wife of House explaining that she still loves House and her current husband, but she loves her husband.
Cameron and House's pal (oncologist) spent a lot of dialogue and more insight into Cam's past is brought up, including how she began getting feelings for his best friend as they went through the stages of grief together. Loosely, this fits into House's attendance at group therapy sessions, to deal with his grief. Coincidentally, his ex-wife's husband is in the therapeutic group.
The medical aspect of the show was fascinating, actually a failure to consider his non-hospital lifestyle, in which he receives frequent blood transfusions and hyperbaric Oxygen for his training regimen. Cameron calls that cheating, and discusses this with, of all people, the oncologist.
Much better episode, all told.
<hr> Posted by Sarah C. (Member # 4115) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,10,16,13,48,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 16-11-2005 20:48<noscript>November 16, 2005 01:48 PM</noscript>:
I liked the last couple episodes much more than at the beginning of the season. I think House went to the group therapy just to irritate Stacey's husband. Cameron is an idealist with a very rigid standard of ethics (I can relate). House obviously has a different ethical viewpoint, especially when he rummages through confidential files of Stacey's therapy sessions. Too tired to remember any cool lines, but overall I thought the theme was: when is it okay to lie to the ones we love, and when does love become an obsession?
Sarah
<hr> Posted by paulpt (Member # 5125) on <script language="JavaScript1.3" type="text/javascript"> document.write(timestamp(new Date(2005,10,22,7,0,0), dfrm, tfrm, 0, 0, 0, 0)); </script> 22-11-2005 14:00<noscript>November 22, 2005 07:00 AM</noscript>:
Tonight I will be hosting a House party, any suggestions for the event?