Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS | More
Hello Star Trek enthusiasts! Once again, it’s time to embark on another voyage with “The Pensky Podcast.” I’m Wes, and alongside my trusty co-host Clay, we’re venturing deep into the heart of Star Trek: Voyager. Today, we’re diving into the intricate tapestry of the episode “Before and After.” Whether you’re a seasoned Trekkie or just joining the federation, our chat promises revelations and reflections.
“Before and After,” aired in Voyager’s third season on April 9, 1997, thrusts Kes into the limelight. The episode traverses the unique concept of the Ocampan’s short lifespan, with Kes experiencing her life in reverse. From her eventual death to her time as a nascent member of Voyager’s crew, Kes gives viewers a perplexing, non-linear narrative that teases the future while delving into the past.
Clay and I are instantly drawn to the Ocampan lifespan concept in our conversation. However, we also delve into a common critique: Voyager’s recurring theme of prioritizing sci-fi concepts over deep character work. Does “Before and After” truly explore Kes as a character, or does it use her more as a vehicle for its temporal mechanics? The episode also hints at the impending “Year of Hell” storyline, raising our anticipation and sparking speculation. Furthermore, a central question drives our debate: What exactly did Kes learn from this disjointed journey through her life? And how does this knowledge play out in her overall arc?
To wrap it up, “The Pensky Podcast” is your prime destination for diving into Star Trek’s depths. Episodes like “Before and After” are not just stories but puzzles, and together we work to piece them together, delving into narrative choices, character arcs, and the broader Star Trek universe. Hungry for more? Our Patreon page awaits with an expansive cosmos of additional content. Engage with us on this stellar journey!