Honestly we talk about all the groundbreaking strides Steven Universe has made with representation of Gay characters in children’s media, but I also feel like sometimes we forget just how interesting and progressive it’s entire message is on ideas of love and sexuality are in general. The show does a lot more with this kind of stuff besides just showing that girls can like girls, it explores so many aspects of society and sexuality in a mature and responsible way that kids can still relate to.

Recently I rewatched Alone Together for the first time in a while and the commentary on the role that sexuality plays in society is kind of mind blowing. The fears Stevonnie has at losing their identity in their relationship, the disturbingly accurate way they’re immediately sexualized by everyone around them long before they’re ready or even understand what’s going on on a personal level. The subtle ways that the episode shows struggles with gender identity with Kevin referring to Stevonnie as a girl when their gender is seemingly fluid or non-existent. The personal struggles Steven and Connie face, trying to find personal happiness and emotional connection in the experience, though noting that in the end it only makes them feel more alone. Hell, even Garnet’s famous “You are an experience. Make it a good one” quote is ripe with commentary.

And on top of all of that, the episode never comes across as preachy. The episode doesn’t stop to tell viewers about these topics, but builds them into its world. Steven Universe isn’t just a show that brings up these topics, it’s a show about sexuality and identity. Alone Together in the end works so well because the message is tied to the individual growth of the characters, and it carries the same emotional weight that a real life equivalent would in how they view the world.

I don’t know, with all the shitty memes, and leaks, and analysis of the story on a purely base level, sometimes I can lose track of what makes this show so special. Steven universe is a show where love and friendship can solve everything and it’s not a cop out, because its entire running time is dedicated to exploring what these concepts mean.

I don’t know I just love this show man.