The Enigmatic Symbolism of the Glass Unicorn Unveiled in The Summer I Turned Pretty's Epic Season 2 Finale
Discover the hidden symbolism behind Conrad's glass unicorn in Jenny Han's The Summer I Turned Pretty Unveiling his true emotions, this Easter egg hints at a captivating romance between Conrad and Belly, paving the way for an intriguing flashback scene in Season 3
Summary
The glass unicorn figurine featured in the season 2 finale of The Summer I Turned Pretty carries profound symbolism, portraying Conrad's genuine emotions towards Belly and foreshadowing an enthralling storyline for season 3.
The glass unicorn symbolizes Belly and Conrad's story in Jenny Han's third novel, We'll Always Have Summer, serving as an embodiment of their deep emotions towards one another. Its presence suggests that Conrad and Belly's connection is strong and signifies that their love story is ongoing.
Get ready for some spoilers from The Summer I Turned Pretty season 2 finale and Jenny Han's book trilogy, particularly the third book called We'll Always Have Summer. The season 2 finale, titled "Love Triangle," has left fans of the trilogy gushing over the appearance of a glass unicorn. If you haven't read the books, you might think this detail is insignificant and appears only at the end of the season. However, there is a deeper meaning to this whimsical object, making it more than just a casual reference.
Jenny Han, the author of the book trilogy, also adapts the story for the screen. As a result, she includes plenty of fan service, subtle nods, and even nine popular Taylor Swift songs. But the glass unicorn figurine's first on-screen appearance might be one of the most exciting references to the books. Not only does it reveal Conrad's true feelings for Belly, who ultimately ends up with his brother Jeremiah in the season 2 finale, but it also sets up an intriguing plot line for season 3.
Conrad's Glass Unicorn Is From Jenny Han's The Summer I Turned Pretty Books
In the final moments of The Summer I Turned Pretty season 2, Jeremiah eagerly watches as Belly regains her confidence on the volleyball court. As Conrad and Jeremiah successfully rescue the Cousins beach house, the scene alternates between Conrad restoring the house to its original state and Belly's gameplay. While unpacking boxes, Conrad stumbles upon a carefully wrapped glass unicorn. Excited, he unwraps it and places it on a dresser in Belly's bedroom, signaling his presence in her personal space.
For viewers solely familiar with the TV show, the sudden appearance of the glass unicorn may not hold the same significance as other items Conrad unpacks. However, moments later, Conrad discovers a polar bear stuffed animal that Belly had won at the Cousins boardwalk during their childhood. This polar bear holds significant meaning as it represents the missed opportunities and unrequited love between young Belly and Conrad. On the other hand, readers of the book are aware of the symbolic meaning behind the lingering shot of the glass unicorn, which pays homage to Belly and Conrad's journey in Han's third novel.
What Conrad's Glass Unicorn Scene Really Means For His Romance With Belly
In Han's trilogy's third book, We'll Always Have Summer (2011), Belly forms a profound attachment to the glass unicorn. Belly contemplates, "Conrad continues to watch over me," before embarking on a search for the treasured figurine in her room. In the series, the glass unicorn symbolizes the emotions shared between Belly and Conrad, being a gift from the latter. By the conclusion of episode 8, it becomes evident that Belly has moved forward, and viewers finally gain insight into the reasons behind Belly and Conrad's breakup prior to the second season of The Summer I Turned Pretty.
Upon making the decision to banish Conrad from her heart, Belly attempts to return the silver infinity-symbol necklace he had given her. Conrad insists, expressing his inability to cling onto it any longer. Despite pushing Belly away once again and pretending to be fine in the presence of her and Jeremiah, Conrad evidently suffers from a broken heart. The meticulous effort Conrad puts into arranging Belly's room at the Cousins beach house further confirms this reality. The discovery of both the stuffed polar bear and the glass unicorn serves as a visual representation of the enduring connection shared between the two, providing a hint that the love story between Conrad and Belly is far from its conclusion.
The Summer I Turned Pretty's Glass Unicorn Easter Egg Sets Up A Season 3 Conrad & Belly Flashback Scene
In order to provide more context to the significance of the glass unicorn, season 3 of the series is likely to include a flashback scene exploring the origins of this keepsake. The effectiveness of season 2's timeline jumps in The Summer I Turned Pretty is particularly evident in the way it reveals the extensive history between Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah. One of the standout episodes from the second season revolves around the boardwalk, effectively showcasing Conrad's long-standing crush on Belly. However, the inclusion of a flashback scene portraying Conrad giving the glass unicorn to Belly would not only add emotional depth to the object in the present, but also serve as a symbolic representation of Belly and Conrad's ultimate union.
