Outlander season 7 episode 9 leaves you with a bittersweet feeling in your chest (Review)

Outlander season 7 episode 9 leaves you with a bittersweet feeling in your chest (Review)Outlander season 7 episode 9 leaves you with a bittersweet feeling in your chest (Review)

As a long-time Outlander fan who has followed the journey of Claire and Jamie through thick and thin, I must say that this week’s episode was nothing short of heartwarming. The homecoming of Young Ian and his reunion with his family brought tears to my eyes, and the bittersweet moments were as poignant as ever.


Oh, it’s such a relief to be back at Lallybroch! It brings on these warm, cozy feelings, despite the fact that it’s tinged with sadness due to Ian’s condition. Unfortunately, he has consumption, which we now call tuberculosis. Typically, my favorite moments in an episode revolve around Jamie and Claire. However, this time, my absolute favorite scene from Outlander season 7 episode 9 was the one between Ian and Young Ian.

It was clear how delighted Ian was to have his son back home. While he’d been kept informed about his life, having a conversation face-to-face is quite different. Plus, we now know for sure that Swiftest of Lizards, or Ian James, is indeed his son – something hinted at earlier in the season. It would be interesting to see if they could reconnect in the future.

In many historical dramas, it’s not uncommon to see characters being raised by individuals who aren’t their biological fathers. This is also true in this instance with John Bell portraying Young Ian. His performance exudes a gentle warmth and despite the hardships he’s faced, there remains an endearing innocence and enthusiasm towards Rachel Hunter’s character.

Outlander season 7 episode 9 leaves you with a bittersweet feeling in your chest (Review)

In a touching moment, our beloved Mohawk warrior shares a heartwarming scene with his mother, Jenny. Despite their distinct cultures, Ian and Jenny embrace who Young Ian is and his identity. Jenny takes it a step further by creating a tombstone for Iseabail, their granddaughter, in the family cemetery. This act resonates deeply within Ian’s heart, and it moved us as well. Jenny expresses her wish for Ian to travel with Rachel, showing her unwavering support.

Despite his desire to remain with his father as long as possible, that farewell seems to be exactly what he needs. Oh, how painful it is. The scene at the end of the episode where Ian stands there, bidding adieu while Young Ian watches from the wagon still brings tears to my eyes. Sadly, this might be their final encounter. It’s heartrending, but fortunately, Ian was granted the chance to bid farewell before his father departed.

Outlander season 7 episode 9 leaves you with a bittersweet feeling in your chest (Review)

Titling this episode “Unfinished Business” is quite fitting, considering it delves into Jamie and Laoghaire’s ongoing issues. The question of whether she truly deserves a happy ending remains unanswered, but remember, she was once a young girl who experienced heartbreak that never fully healed. This plotline allows for Joanie to move forward with her aspirations of becoming a nun, while Jamie can finally close the book on Laoghaire. With Mr. Joey by her side, perhaps her lingering resentment will soften a bit. Their business seems to be concluded in a way that feels fitting. As for Ned Gowan, I’m intrigued – I need to discover his secret to longevity!

Later, we come to Claire. I must admit, I wasn’t anticipating Jamie and Claire to disclose her time-traveling secret to the Murrays. After all this time has passed. Yet, it seemed fitting and clear as day. The expressions on Michael, Jenny, and Ian were a blend of astonishment and amusement, which was quite entertaining. To be honest, the actors portrayed that reaction flawlessly and brought a smile to my face.

Jenny, being quite impassioned by nature, reacts angrily when Claire queries if she can heal Ian. She mistakenly believes Claire harbors resentment towards her for arranging Jamie’s marriage to Laoghaire, but in truth, Claire has forgotten about that long ago. Her harsh words stem from her own pain. Yet, as Claire departs – let me explain further shortly – the two reconcile and part on friendly terms, which brings a smile to my face.

Outlander season 7 episode 9 leaves you with a bittersweet feeling in your chest (Review)

It turns out to be Roger who unexpectedly encounters the Frasers! While en route to Lallybroch, he unexpectedly comes across Brian Fraser and Jenny. This was during the time when Jamie was studying in France. Quite a dilemma, as they’ve unintentionally traveled back in time earlier than planned – specifically, it’s 1736. The voiceover by Roger is engaging and fun; I wonder how long this will continue. Additionally, it’s interesting to note that Buck is experiencing the side effects of passing through the Stones for the first time.

Undeniably, who would serve as the healer? None other than Geillis Duncan! We’re left on a suspenseful note, with Roger and Buck arriving at her door following Roger’s night at Lallybroch (where we also encounter Ian’s father for the first time!). Oh, it’s fascinating that Buck shares the same mother, slippery as ever, and he remains oblivious. I can hardly wait to find out what transpires next, and hopefully Dougal makes an appearance in the upcoming episode.

Moving on to the challenging topic of parting ways. Actors Caitríona Balfe and Sam Heughan, along with the showrunners, have hinted at an imminent separation in season 7B that is expected to bring about distressing aftermaths. And from what I gather, this could very well be the separation they’re referring to. It’s indeed heartbreaking that Claire has to depart so soon. She’s only just arrived in Scotland and Lallybroch!

Outlander season 7 episode 9 leaves you with a bittersweet feeling in your chest (Review)

I find myself rather displeased by this turn of events, but it seems the narrative must press forward. Given the swift pace of our series and Claire’s character, she wouldn’t abandon someone in need, especially if they are the nephew of her close friend Jamie. However, I was hoping for more scenes of her with her family at Lallybroch. This separation is causing me quite a bit of unease, my friends!

The title card at the start seemed puzzling, but now it’s clear that the grave Jemmy was near belongs to Isabeil. However, the grave appears much older and has grown over with grass and plants. This might imply that Jemmy isn’t in the same time period as his grandparents or father. So, where is Jemmy?

Outlander season 7 episode 9 leaves you with a bittersweet feeling in your chest (Review)

In summary, the ninth episode of Outlander’s seventh season was exceptionally engaging and satisfying. It encapsulated all that one would anticipate from an episode centered around homecoming. Various threads were neatly wrapped up, there were poignant family reunions, and much more. I believe it was crucial for characters like Jamie and Young Ian to have this visit to Lochleven so they could resolve their past issues and find a way to move forward, ultimately preparing them for another departure from Scotland.

It was delightful to reconnect with Ian, Jenny, and the rest of the Murray family, including some who might not return in future seasons. Whether this is a temporary or permanent farewell remains uncertain. The emotional mix of joy and sadness fits perfectly with their storylines. I was a bit surprised that Bree wasn’t more present, but perhaps she will feature more in upcoming episodes. What an heartwarming homecoming! Grade level: B

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2024-11-23 05:28

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