this season is drawn out and takes it's time in a way that could feel too slow but i think it perfectly reflects the state of the characters and the course of the series! this is definitely a simple season in some ways (ignore the murder and prison and kidnapping) and i really respect that. it is also obviously batshit which really, really works most of the time. everything feels either sweet and very earned or so intense and gripping in all it's absurdity, and the relationships are strong and earnest (if a little occasionally too angsty for my taste). i didn’t even know i liked peyton and lucas until they got together!! i don't love every choice they make but when will i ever! overall, such a great season and a wonderful conclusion to the 1-4 arc.