Proceed with Caution: A Brief Analysis of the Hawk's Warning in Fellow Travelers

Article Overview

Hawk's cautionary message to Tim hints at the difficult path ahead for their clandestine love affair, exposing Hawk's clear awareness of their inevitable destiny.

Upon witnessing Tim's profound bond with Hawk, Hawk initially responds with a cold and calculated apathy, demonstrating his understanding of his ability to be merciless towards his beloved.

Ignoring Hawk's clear warning, Tim's foolish desire for Hawk's affection sets them on a journey to uncover their shared destiny.

In the premiere of the Fellow Travelers series, Hawk sends a cautionary message to Tim, hinting that he is aware of how their secret romance will unfold. The alluring and enigmatic Hawkins Fuller (played by Matt Bomer) is straightforward yet subtle in his approach as he initiates a passionate affair with the idealistic college graduate, Tim Laughlin (played by Jonathan Bailey). What begins as a purely physical attraction evolves into something deeper, with Tim developing strong emotional ties to Hawk. However, Hawk responds with cold calculation, keeping his distance.

Hawk’s Warning To Tim Reveals His Self-Awareness That He’s A Monster

In the first episode of Fellow Travelers, Tim and Hawk find themselves unexpectedly drawn to each other after a series of casual encounters. hawk, who initially appears to be a player, tries to downplay their connection by telling Tim at a bar that it was just a short-term fling. However, Tim, who is known for his honesty and impulsive nature, refuses to accept Hawk's dismissive treatment. As Tim starts to develop genuine feelings for Hawk, he becomes upset by Hawk's insensitivity. Eventually, Hawk, who is guarded and wary of letting others in, takes a desperate step to regain Tim's affection by lowering his defenses. This pivotal moment occurs towards the end of the premiere episode of Fellow Travelers.

After recounting the poignant tale of his first love Kenny and explaining the significance of his beloved Washington D.C. paperweight, Hawk requests permission from Tim to spend the night in his room. Tim, however, expresses not only his fear of the Lavender Scare and McCarthyism, but also his deep apprehension towards Hawk and his potential actions. The way Hawk fervently pleads to see Tim that evening appears somewhat orchestrated and manipulative, especially when he earnestly advises Tim, "I strongly recommend going inside, closing that door, and locking it behind you."

Hawk's warning seems genuine on the surface, sincerely cautioning Tim about the challenges that will inevitably arise from being romantically involved with him. Hawk's account of Kenny's actions revealed his tendency to desert his loved ones. Remarkably, Hawk's seemingly transparent approach benefits him as Tim, in the end, succumbs to his invitation, stating, "Unfortunately, the lock is broken." Taking full advantage of Tim's inability to refuse, Hawk's exceptional persuasive skills are on display, as he gives the impression of providing an escape route.

Tim’s Response Indicates His Foolish & Destructive Desire For Hawk’s Affection

Fellow Travelers episode 1 showcases Tim as a hopeless romantic, willingly falling for Hawk's charms. Hawk's strategy to win Tim back proves successful, though whether Hawk genuinely loves Tim or merely uses him for personal satisfaction remains unclear. Despite Hawk's emotional vulnerability and sentimental backstory, there lies a dark reality underneath his occasional openness - he can be cold-hearted and cruel to those he cares for. While Hawk might be dropping hints about his true intentions in Fellow Travelers, his warning leaves Tim with no option but to take the risk and uncover their fate firsthand.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I have mixed feelings about the Hawk's warning in Fellow Travelers. On the one hand, I appreciate the show's portrayal of the complex and often dangerous realities of queer love in the 1950s. Hawk's warning to Tim is a sobering reminder of the risks that they both face if their relationship is discovered.

On the other hand, I am concerned that the show may be romanticizing the Hawk's character. Despite his warning to Tim, Hawk is still a deeply flawed and manipulative individual. He is clearly using Tim for his own personal satisfaction, and he is not afraid to hurt him in the process. I worry that the show may be sending the message that it is okay to be in a relationship with someone who is abusive, as long as they are charming and charismatic.

Overall, I think that Fellow Travelers is a well-made and thought-provoking show. However, I urge viewers to be critical of the messages that it is sending about relationships and consent.