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Erik Journey

In Defense of Blaine Anderson

One thing I enjoy about social media sites is that it allows us all to become amateur psychologists, especially when it comes to fictional characters. For most of us though, the old saying “Don’t leave your day job!” definitely applies. As it is, the motivations of these characters rest at the whim of the writers, despite what anyone, including the actors have to say. However, because of this, there are often some very interesting and thought provoking interpretations as to the actions of certain characters. Unfortunately, these interpretations are often colored by the love of one character (or actor) over another.

We are currently getting ready to head into the part 2 of Glee’s “The Break-Up”, aka Season 6. Once again, much to the dismay of the Klaine fandom, Blaine Anderson and Kurt Hummel will be broken apart and separated, with a mere 13 weeks to repair and restore the relationship, hopefully leading to the much anticipated Klaine wedding. However, in the interim, many fans of Klaine and/or Blaine are reading the diatribe against Blaine Anderson, with bits of venom also directed at Darren Criss. Blaine is described as being self-serving, self-absorbed, arrogant, emotionally and physically abusive, an attention whore, and too needy. The character has affected Kurt negatively, stifling his voice, his creativity and his self esteem. Blaine is holding Kurt back, not nearly his equal in any area,  and only wants Kurt when Kurt appears unattainable. In addition, Darren Criss is untalented and is preventing Chris Colfer from moving on to greater heights, diminishing his shine. There is probably more but there is only so much time in a day.

I must admit that I am a fan of Kurt Hummel. However, for whatever reason, I fail to see him as the saint, victim, selfless, most talented person in the Glee universe (or maybe I should say the universe) super being that many seem to say he is. I love Kurt because he is human. He makes mistakes. He is vulnerable but he is a fighter. He gets confused. He is self-confident yet insecure. He can be self-centered and self-absorbed. He is talented but seems to recognize the limitations of his talent. He is snarky. He has shortcomings. He is nobody’s victim. He is unique and creates his own way. And he is played by an actor that brilliantly brings out all of these shadings. What’s not to love?

However, I am also a huge fan of Blaine Anderson. He, like Kurt, is flawed. He’s human. He makes mistakes. Yet, if I had to choose a side during this break-up, it would be Blaine’s, if for no other reason than so many people pick Kurt’s. While I don’t always agree or approve of the decisions he makes, I usually am able to understand them. Also, as often as people say Blaine is bad for Kurt, one could just as easily say Kurt is bad for Blaine.

Blaine Anderson was first introduced to us in season two of Glee. He was an out and proud gay teenager, very confident in himself and his abilities. He had leadership qualities and seemed to inspire those around him. He had effortless charm and charisma to spare. Kurt and Blaine were immediately drawn to each other with Blaine taking on the role of friend, mentor and protector of Kurt. He tried to intervene in the situation with Karofsky. He also stepped in and spoke to Burt Hummel about the necessity for the sex talk with Kurt. That could not have been an easy thing for him to do but he did it because he cared for Kurt. Once Kurt decided to return to McKinley he also stepped in to make sure Kurt would be safe. Unfortunately, Blaine can be oblivious to things when it comes to himself and the revelation the Kurt thought the two were moving towards something more than friendship came as a complete surprise to him. Once young Mr. Hummel let down his guard and showed more of his vulnerability, Blaine realized how special Kurt was and that he, too, was drawn to him in a way that exceeded mere friendship.

Now, some say that this is preceded by a moment in which Kurt is rebuking Blaine, that he is moving on from him which is why Blaine suddenly wants him. My response? That is ridiculous. Kurt expressing concern the Warblers have become too much of a one man show was in no way moving on from Blaine. However, if playing the devil’s advocate, one could say this is an instance where Kurt was bad for Blaine. He (Kurt) expressed his jealousy and resentment that Mr. Anderson was receiving so much attention. As a result, Blaine felt badly that he was being singled out by the Warblers for his talent and insisted upon the next competition that a duet be performed with Kurt. This would be the same attention whore, self-centered Mr. Anderson that not only shared the spotlight with Mr. Hummel, but pushed him center to receive extra applause. Unlike Mr. Schuester, Blaine was bringing Kurt’s talent to the forefront in a competition. What a swine!

Later in the season, after losing Regionals, Kurt decides, with Blaine’s encouragement and blessing, to return to Mckinley. This is despite his new relationship and friendships. He misses his old school and friends, returning to bask in the glory of a trip to Nationals. Meanwhile, although knowing what it feels like to miss your friends and school, he encourages Blaine to leave Dalton, despite Blaine’s concern about leaving behind his friends. Once he agrees to transfer, Kurt tells him to be sure it is what he, Blaine, wants so that it doesn’t cause problems between them. Blaine assures him it is what he wants but Blaine is a people pleaser. Even if he did it for Kurt, he would never admit to that.

Also, Blaine, despite his personal history, agrees to accompany Kurt to the prom. He then steps up for him, faces his fears and demons from his past and dances with him in front of a crowd he knows to be less than gay friendly. All for Kurt.

As season 3 begins, Blaine transfers to be near his soulmate. Initially things go smoothly for the two, although Blaine has to deal with resentment from some members of the New Directions. Things hit a small rough patch when McKinley puts on West Side Story. Kurt wants to play the part of Tony. He is certainly talented enough for the part but is not physically right. Blaine auditions as well and asked to be considered for the roles outside of Tony. However those casting the role feel Blaine would be the perfect as the romantic lead. Now, members of the Blaine is the Prince of Darkness realm feel that if Blaine truly loved Kurt he not only would not have accepted the role, he would not have tried out at all. I wonder, why not? Why shouldn’t he try out? He has worked hard to get where he is. He has been performing outside of Dalton. Is he supposed to hide his talent because he is now dating Kurt? It also was clear that Kurt was not going to be cast as Tony, period. He was wrong for that particular role. It happens. Kurt does accept this and graciously encourages Blaine to accept the role. Blaine, who really seems to look for the good in people, takes this at face value and plays the role of Tony. He would have no reason to doubt that Kurt would be anything but honest with him.

West Side Story now leads to one of those moments that Blaine haters love to bring up time and time again. Blaine as physical/sexual abuser. I must admit when I first read the posts claiming Kurt was sexually assaulted by Blaine, I was bewildered. Had we watched the same episode? Upon further review ... I still don’t see it. Not even close. Not by any huge stretch of the imagination do I see it. Nor do I see Blaine just trying to use Kurt as a way to prepare for his role as Tony. If Blaine just wanted to have sex to prepare him for his role, Sebastian was ready and willing.

Blaine continues to try to be a people pleaser, especially where Kurt is concerned. When Kurt questions him about his interest in moving their physical relationship further, Blaine assures him that he is willing to go at Kurt’s speed. He will not feel comfortable if Kurt is not comfortable. In the meantime, he will take matters into his own hand to control his own urges. Meanwhile, Kurt is starting to become impatient, feeling some of his own urges and frustrations and questioning whether or not he is playing things too safe. When Sebastian enters the picture, Blaine is flattered by his attention. Still he considers Kurt’s comfort when Sebastian invites them to Scandals, turning down the offer while Kurt steps it up and accepts. Kurt also goes over some of his bucket list with Blaine, again  demonstrating that he is having his own sexual awakening and is maybe ready to move their relationship to another level.

On the big night at Scandals, Blaine spends a great deal of time dancing with Sebastian. There isn’t

any reason given as Kurt is seen sitting on the sidelines watching when Karofsky approaches. After their discussion Kurt moves in on Sebastian and basically pushes him aside while he takes his rightful place. Blaine seems very happy that Kurt has joined him. One has to question why Kurt wasn’t dancing with him to begin with? Did Sebastian formally ask Blaine to dance and Kurt gave his permission? Did Kurt decide to sit this one out but encourage Blaine to keep dancing if he wanted? What is known is that Blaine loves to dance when given the opportunity. It is also known that he is oblivious to the fact that other people might find him attractive and crush on him. It is also shown that Blaine was pleased to have 
Kurt be the one who was dancing with him.

As they leave the couple appears to be in high spirits. Blaine is intoxicated both with beer and his experience while Kurt seems just happy to be leaving. While Blaine is feeling free and uninhibited, he tries to experience his first time with Kurt. When the door to the back seat of the car is open, he pulls Kurt down to him, asking him to make love with him. I believe the last thing on his mind is that he is doing this for a part in a play. He’s drunk, in love and horny. That. coupled with Kurt’s not so subtle hints that maybe he is willing to move their relationship to the next level, is what motivates him. Only when Kurt angrily pulls himself away does Blaine realize that maybe Kurt is not so willing after all. Still, he is surprised and asks Kurt what is wrong and why is he yelling? Kurt tells him exactly why he is upset. Blaine, becoming angry himself, offers his own explanation of wanting to be spontaneous and walks home. I’m not sure how any of this is perceived as physical assault. Blaine is not in a position of power, Kurt is. He is on top which would make Blaine assaulting him very difficult. When Kurt pulls himself away, not in a joking manner, Blaine doesn’t resist him. Kurt doesn’t appear to feel threatened or frightened (as he very much was with Karofsky) and instead offers an explanation for his actions. He then still expects his would-be attacker to ride home with him. Blaine, instead of forcing himself on his “victim”, removes himself from the situation.

Later in the episode, Kurt approaches Blaine while he is alone. He doesn’t fear him as a victim of physical assault would. Blaine tries to explain his actions but Kurt just pushes those aside. He instead tells Blaine how proud he is of him and how he takes his breath away. He also asks Blaine to take him to his place where they experience their first time together. Unlike Luke and Laura, where rape somehow became seduction, both parties willing consented. Again, I did not see any indication of sexual assault in this episode.

Further on in the season we get the “Dance with Somebody” episode. This is an episode in which Blaine is shown to start having doubts about his future with Kurt. He pulls emotionally away from him. In response Kurt begins flirting through text messages with another guy. In fact, he does this in full view of Blaine who is sitting only feet away from him in the choir room. Later, when Blaine does confront him, Kurt offers justifications, not apologies. He also reveals the resentment and jealousy he feels towards Blaine’s performances in Glee club while also feeling that the lack of attention Blaine is giving him is also upsetting. Blaine’s carefully worded reaction that he moved to McKinley to be with him (not for him) as proof of how special he is doesn’t seem to appease Kurt. The two eventually meet with a third party. Blaine begins to open up, albeit reluctantly. He mentions how it bothers him that Kurt puts bronzer in his lotion which is funny now but foreshadows Blaine’s later fear of Kurt’s reaction when he gains weight. He also begins to express his insecurity towards Kurt leaving. He hates that Kurt’s focus on NYADA makes it appear that he can’t wait to leave all things Lima, including him, behind.He worries that he will be left alone while Kurt is gone and that Kurt might forget him. Kurt appears to be clueless to the situation, unaware of how his self-centeredness has affected his boyfriend. He reassures Blaine that they will be fine, an assurance he reiterates in the season finale.

As season four begins, Blaine encourages Kurt to head to New York. Despite being insecure and worried about their future, he sends him on. Later, his fears come true as Kurt seems somewhat uninterested in what is happening with him. His life in NY is more important to him than what Blaine is doing and feeling. The key event here is the student council election. This is a very important event in Blaine’s life and when he tries to share the results with Kurt, Kurt ignores his call. While it may be true that Kurt didn’t know why Blaine was calling, surely he knew this was the day of the election or was he so completely self-centered and unaware of the events in

Blaine’s life that he forgot? Kurt’s continued indifference/obliviousness to Blaine’s feelings lead, of course, to the break-up.

To many, Blaine’s actions here are unforgivable. To me, while they are unacceptable, they are at least, understandable. He was worried prior to Kurt’s leaving as to what might happen. In his mind, those things are happening now. He can’t really talk to him about it because Kurt doesn’t have time to talk to him or, sometimes, even the inclination. When Kurt hears things he doesn’t want to hear he either makes reassurances that ring false or sticks his fingers in his ears. Kurt has a new life that now doesn’t include him. It is over. He then seeks out someone who does make him feel wanted or needed. Huge mistake. Only after straying does he realize how much he had with Kurt and that it is worth fighting for. To his credit, even if reluctantly, he goes to Kurt to tell him. Blaine really wears his heart on his sleeve so to think he could go to NY and hope that Kurt wouldn’t notice something was wrong would never happen.  Upon learning of the betrayal, Kurt is devastated. This all leads to their break up.

Blaine does try to explain but Kurt refuses to listen to his explanations. Finally Kurt asks him to stop texting him, that all is over. However it is Kurt who reopens lines of communication. He tells Blaine that they will sit down and have a mature talk about their situation at Christmas. Yet, knowing what this means to Blaine, he cancels their meeting. Later, even though Kurt knows that Blaine is pining for him, he allows a hookup to happen. Again, Blaine wears his heart on his sleeve and Kurt would have to be blind not  to know how much Blaine wanted a reconciliation. Yet he leads him on with the one night stand at the wedding.

Finally, moving on to season 5, Kurt accepts Blaine’s proposal. However, as problems arise once Blaine moves to NY, Kurt again refuses to acknowledge them or to at least address them. Instead of talking to Blaine, he talks to Starchild.When he finds Blaine’s porn, he again refuses to talk about it. It is understandable here, by the way, why Blaine would worry about Kurt judging him. If Kurt would sneak bronzer into his lotion because the thought Blaine looked better with a little color, how might he react if his fiancee was gaining weight?  Instead of talking about it, he humiliates Blaine in front of their peers. He takes out his anger in their fencing duel.

The dueling episode is also the one in which many are upset about

Blaine’s voice over. Many cannot believe that if Blaine really loved Kurt he would have such thoughts. It has been my experience that just because people are in love they do not become rivals or have disparaging thoughts about each other. Listen to couples that have been together for a length of time complain about their other. There are couples that will not work out together because they become too competitive with each other. In this episode we are privy to Blaine’s thoughts when he is in an unhappy place with himself. What might the voice over have sounded like in the episodes where Kurt is jealous of Blaine?  They may not have been pleasant either.

This discussion has gone on much too long  so I’m going to wrap it up here. I want to stress again that I am a Klaine fan that loves both Blaine and Kurt. However, too many stress the virtues of Kurt while labeling Blaine as toxic. I just wanted to show that if you shift perspectives, Kurt can be seen as just as toxic to Blaine. Does this mean I think they don’t belong with each other. Of course not. I can’t wait for my Klaine wedding. I think they are both humans who are growing up and still learning how to deal with their own lives, let alone sharing that life with another person. I still believe, though, as Blaine does, that they will have their happy ending.