Analyzing the Crucial Flaw in Matt Bomer's Fellow Travelers Character Exposed by Hawk's Paperweight Story

Article Overview

Hawk's outwardly flawless personality conceals a significant imperfection - his inclination to abandon those he deeply cares for, which is evident in his past romantic involvements.

Within Hawk's apartment, the glass paperweight serves as a representation of his remorse for forsaking Kenny, a former lover who tragically lost his life in battle, having enlisted in the military to remain near Hawk.

Hawk's enigmatic allure conceals his true emotions, but encountering Tim gradually dismantles his emotional facade. In Fellow Travelers, the hidden meaning behind Hawk's paperweight highlights a significant flaw in his seemingly flawless demeanor. Portrayed by Matt Bomer, Hawkins 'Hawk' Fuller takes on the role in the new Showtime miniseries adaptation of Thomas Mallon's 2007 novel of the same title. At first glance, Hawk possesses all the necessary attributes—good looks, charisma, and influential connections—to thrive in the political landscape of Washington D.C. However, Hawk's adeptness at secrecy, coupled with his intriguing seediness, allows him to manipulate and charm many of the characters in the show.

Fellow Travelers episode 1 unveils an interesting twist in Hawk's love life. Despite being unofficially engaged to a prominent Senator's daughter, Hawk indulges in secret flings and one-night stands with other men in private. He has acquired a certain reputation for his chilly demeanor in romantic relationships, seemingly devoid of emotions. However, everything takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with Tim Laughlin (Jonathan Bailey), an optimistic recent college graduate. As Tim becomes infatuated with Hawk after a series of hidden encounters, Hawk's buried sentimentality starts to resurface, contrasting with his past experiences.

Hawk’s Paperweight Symbolizes His Guilt For Deserting An Old Flame

During one of Tim's initial visits to Hawk's residence in Washington D.C., he observes a glass paperweight situated atop a mantlepiece in Hawk's living space, positioned under a focused beam of light. Tim lifts it up to closely examine it, which elicits Hawk's frustration, prompting him to instruct Tim to return it to its original place. At that moment, Tim is oblivious to the emotional significance the paperweight holds for Hawk, obeying his request but feeling perplexed and somewhat startled by Hawk's sudden gravity towards an inanimate object.

Hawk’s Biggest Flaw Is That He Abandons Who & What He Truly Loves

Hawk discloses in the finale of the initial episode of Fellow Travelers that the paperweight symbolizes a lost romantic connection from his high school days. In a rare moment of vulnerability, Hawk confides in Tim about his first male sexual partner named Kenny. Hawk acquired the paperweight during a clandestine school trip with Kenny, where their relationship was kept secret. This explains why the paperweight held such significant meaning to Hawk even decades later.

The tragic fate of Kenny, who followed in Hawk's footsteps and joined the U.S. Army only to die in combat, is revealed to Tim by Hawk. Hawk believes that Kenny's decision to join the Army was his attempt to stay close to Hawk, especially after Hawk distanced himself from Kenny when he started facing bullying at school. The paperweight not only symbolizes the romance between Hawk and Kenny, but also serves as a harsh reminder of how Hawk abandoned Kenny in order to preserve his social standing. In Fellow Travelers, the paperweight serves as a warning that Hawk is inclined to forsake the people he loves, particularly if they pose a risk to his reputation or career.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I find the analysis of Matt Bomer's Fellow Travelers character and the symbolism behind Hawk's paperweight to be intriguing and thought-provoking. The exploration of Hawk's inner conflict and his tendency to abandon those he cares about is a compelling narrative device that adds depth to his character.

The paperweight, as a symbol of his guilt and remorse for leaving Kenny behind, adds a layer of complexity to Hawk's personality and sheds light on his emotional vulnerability. It is a powerful reminder of the consequences of our actions and the importance of facing our past mistakes. Overall, I appreciate the nuanced portrayal of Hawk's character and the use of symbolism to enhance the storytelling in Fellow Travelers.