The Unfulfilled Potential: Why Barney Should Have Ended Up with Nora
The question of whether Barney should have ended up with Nora has been a topic of debate among fans of the popular TV series, 'Friends'. While some argue that Barney and Robin's tumultuous relationship provided more stability, others believe that Nora would have represented a more mature and balanced counterpart for Barney. This article explores the arguments for and against Barney and Nora's potential relationship, highlighting the importance of character development and narrative consistency in storytelling.
Arguments for Barney Ending Up with Nora
The series 'Friends' emphasizes the theme of personal and interpersonal growth, with each character evolving over the years. For instance, in the episode 'The One with All the Candy', Ted reflects on how his friends' choices have shaped them into better versions of themselves.
The genuine connection between Barney and Nora is a strong argument for their potential relationship. Nora challenged Barney to be a better person, and their dynamic showcased maturity and stability unlike his tumultuous relationship with Robin. Their journey together would have represented a significant transformation for Barney, highlighting his growth from a commitment-phobic individual to a man capable of embracing a healthy relationship.
Arguments Against Barney Ending Up with Nora
The series also emphasizes the theme of true love, suggesting that Barney and Nora might not have been the perfect fit for each other. Additionally, the narrative closure in the series finale points to a sense of destiny and the consequences of past actions. The final episodes showed other characters reaching their potential, leaving a feeling that Barney's story was abruptly cut short.
Some argue that Barney's history of womanizing and fear of commitment make him more suitable for Robin, who represents his past self. It is suggested that writing Barney's story to end up with Nora would contradict his character's consistent behavior, making it less believable and somewhat unsatisfying to the audience.
The Importance of Character Consistency and True Growth
The biggest foreshadowing of Barney's potential future as a more mature and responsible individual can be seen in his interaction with his father, Jerome. Barney's revelation about feeling it might be too late for him to change stands as a pivotal moment in his journey. Jerome's response, not revealing his secret, adds mystique and leaves the audience wondering about the possibilities of change.
The series consistently showcases Barney's backslides and growth, indicating a deep commitment to portraying his character's development over time. However, at the series' conclusion, a lack of character progression for Barney feels jarring and disappointing, creating a stark contrast with other characters' finales.
Conclusion
Given the emphasis on personal growth and character development in 'Friends', it is clear that Barney's relationship with Nora would have provided a more fitting conclusion for the series. While the ending of the show may not have fully satisfied everyone, the consistent portrayal of Barney's potential for change makes it a compelling choice for his future with Nora.
Ultimately, the storylines and character arcs should align to offer a satisfying and believable conclusion, one that resonates with the audience's emotional journey alongside the characters. Without a doubt, Barney's potential to grow and mature alongside Nora would have made for a more fulfilling and cohesive ending to the series.