The Orange Couch, Episode 7 of Mad Men: The Codfish Ball

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Weird as it may be to say this, but this was a relatively light episode of “Mad Men”. I realize the image of poor Sally Draper getting an eyeful of blow job is a shocker. Learning that Megan’s parents are awful is no fun, either. But this was probably the most optimistic episode of the season so far. Of course, it ends with everyone sad, so that’s not saying a whole lot, I guess. But despite the disappointments and terrors, things were not a complete shit storm. I think we’re meant to believe that while Sally’s none too happy with what she saw, she’s also going to be just fine. Most kids have some kind of traumatic experience when they first get a glimpse of adult sexuality, and when they grow up and become adults, they’re better able to make sense of it. It’s probably a good thing that Sally has a reason to slow her roll when it comes to wanting to be a grown-up, anyway. Also, while Peggy and Don both got disappointed in this episode, they also have a better idea of where they stand in the world. Better to know than working in ignorance.

Beyond what’s in the latest episode of “The Orange Couch”, I just want to say this: I’m curious what it means for Don to learn that Megan also has wretched parents. Like all other things about Megan, I suspect Don had her family life built up in his mind as some kind of fantasyland. He complains constantly about her closeness to her mother, something she regrettably threw in his face. Now he knows that actually, it’s not so great for her. While he still had it much worse, they have this in common. Not that I think it’s going to change his hot/cold problem with her—he has this problem with all women—but maybe it’s going to complicate things. 

What did you think of the episode?

Update: Some of you have been asking my opinion of HBO’s new show “Girls”. I’ve been waiting to see a few episodes, but I’ll be discussing it with Amanda Hess at the Guardian on live chat at 2PM today.