"Arrow on the Doorpost" - Episode 14, Season 3

“We have a lot to talk about,” said The Governor. 

“Arrow on the Doorpost” is a linchpin of an episode certainly setting up future storylines, particularly how Rick and The Governor can make peace in a complicated world.  The two finally have a sit down it what appeared to be a friendly chitchat, though both men kept their cards very close to the chest, formulating an attack plan of their own.  It’s interesting to note this episode kept the walkers in the background, as the real threat appears to become humans. 

I should also note that Rick appears to be back to normal, somewhat, after putting his life in perspective to Morgan in the last episode.  It’s clear he’s now in a position to lead once again, hammering out a deal that can keep his crew safe.   The two foils with completely different leadership styles, Rick the pragmatist and The Governor a pathological liar, are intent on getting what they want.  They long-awaited talk is so strong they leave mediator Andrea out of the picture. 

But The Governor sets his sights on samurai Michonne, who killed his daughter in a fit of rage.  The Governor is now seeking Michonne, who’s now become a bargaining chip for Rick.  But the talk doesn’t begin with demands, but more background on The Governor, revealing his last name to be Blake after explaining how miserable his life was.   His wife had been in an accident, furthering him away from his own humanity, allowing him to embrace his megalomania. 

“I would never see her again,” said The Governor.  “Gone.  Just an accident, no one’s fault.”

Meanwhile, Daryl and Hershel, accompanying Rick, get acquainted with The Governor’s aides, Martinez and Milton.  The tension is very apparent in the beginning, as Martinez and Daryl try to show off their macho bravado by seeing who can kill walkers best.  But soon, the two realize they’re products of their environment. 

 

“Hate what they did,” said Martinez.  “Life.  Kids.  Sucks.”

His insight certainly shows he never had a paramilitary background like the one he seems to display.  His survivalist behavior, a theme enhanced throughout this season, shows as he shares a cigarette with Daryl. 

Hersel and Milton appear to have an intellectual moment of their own, enough for Milton to see the Grimes crew friendlier than he initially thought.  This sets up conflict within Milton’s mind, who may consider defecting. 

Back in the prison, Glen tries to maintain order as Meryl tries to muscle his way out of the prison to kill The Governor.  But Glen, surviving his beat down from Meryl, stands up to Meryl by blocking him from leaving.   Glen has proven his assertiveness this season, symbolizing a coming-of-age moment for a guy who was simply a good foot soldier.  He ultimately wins his ego-waving contest against Meryl, eventually reuniting with Maggie.  The two make passionate love on the floor after several weeks of tension following their escape from Woodbury.  It seems interesting how Glen’s boldness won Maggie’s heart once again, reaffirming the ideal of a woman coming to rescue a maiden. 

But inside the cell, Meryl insists on taking out The Governor, even talking Michonne in joining him in the fight.  Meryl appears to have a bit more insight about The Governor, perhaps because Meryl a) knows how The Governor thinks and b) he and The Governor share the same sociopathic similarities. 

That goal doesn’t come to fruition as Rick comes back to the prison, declaring war against The Governor while withholding The Governor’s sole demand of trading the safety of others for Michonne.  He only tells the news except Hershel.

Hershel: If she hadn’t come here we wouldn’t have know they were taken.  She’s earned her place.

Rick: Yeah she has.  Are you willing to sacrifice your daughter’s lives for her? 

Hershel: Why you telling me? 

Rick:  I’m hoping you can talk me out of it.

Meanwhile The Governor has no plans of just taking Michonne.  He intends to kill the whole lot of Rick’s gang, revealing this to Milton who appears offended by The Governor’s code. 

“The minute you see Michonne open fire,” said The Govenor.  “Take care of the whole crew.  It’s the best way to avoid a slaughter.” 

A slaughter is indeed in the horizon as it’s Grimes vs. The Governor, though the latter appears to be losing support.  The most is from Andrea, who learns about Maggie’s near rape from The Governor through Hershel. 

“He’s a sick man,” said Hershel. 

That’s enough for Andrea to plan her own escape.