I Think Its Interesting That Some Fans Seem To Be So Ready To Condemn Tattoo But Will Give Googly Eyes

I think it’s interesting that some fans seem to be so ready to condemn Tattoo but will give googly eyes at Hope when he’s, objectively speaking, a right bastard. Like some of y’all love to gush over a bad boy but when flawed characters exhibit flaws THAT’S the issue, that’s the obstacle you can’t get over, the thing that can’t be forgiven. I’m not saying you can’t be annoyed or angry at Tattoo’s actions, I’m just saying have some self awareness. 4 Minutes, Jack & Joker and KinnPorsche have taught me that BL fans have a harder time accepting morally grey, flawed characters who are just regular humans than literal “bad guys” with pretty faces.

At first when I saw Tattoo steal the necklace again I was like, hmm, kinda lame we did that already. And when Joke forgave him I was like, meh. But thinking about it and reading other people’s thoughts on the episode I understand.

Tattoo has been trapped in a cycle of poverty his entire life and will desperately try and claw his way out of it the only way he knows how. He has no other resources because none have ever been provided for him. When presented with the opportunity, of course he took it, he didn’t even think about the repercussions, he just saw the necklace and ran.

But this time was different because when he took it to his mother, she rejected it and his best friend alienated him. He was alone. Then when Joke found him, Tattoo lied but instead of hurting or exiling him, Joke forgave him. This (second) act of forgiveness I think is going to have a huge impact on Tattoo. His mother and best friend looked at him with shame and disappointment, he had almost lost everything, and then Joke forgave him. I really do feel like this is a formative moment in Tattoo’s growth as a character. Now him and Arun just need to smooch.

His suffering was so, so real.

Just a note on Joke forgiving Tattoo:

It's about extending trust repeatedly because they need each other. Joke grew up fucking up and fucking up and fucking up and only getting anger and disappointment from his father. He doesn't want to pass that down. He spent five years in prison thinking about who he wanted to be when he got out, and he chose to be the best he could become.

Tattoo has had an incredibly difficult life, and being in debt really makes you consider the worst decisions. Joke recognizes that, and thanks to the understanding he's gained from Jack, knows Tattoo will never get out of the cycle if he isn't given second chances. They've come this far. Joke has made it clear how he feels about Tattoo's selfishness. But habits don't change overnight.

Also, I think it's important to recognize a few parallels in their current situation, in terms of loneliness and desperation. Of having talents that go unrecognized and underused. Of how willing they are to protect the people they truly care about. There are several points they can agree with each other on and that makes them able to work together.

It's going to be up to Tattoo to change for himself, but it's easier to make that change when someone believes in you.

the most pathetic criminals you know just joined forces

What I wanted was for you to join my side. For that, I would have done much worse.