I’m forever grateful in how they handled this scene.
A lesser show might’ve had Merstede swim to the surface holding onto Ed, literally rescuing him. As it is, they don’t even touch, yet it’s so visually powerful. The mirroring, which says, I see you, I am you, “you’re safe”.
But most importantly, the narrative allowing Ed agency to decide for himself whether to live or die after being offered emotional safety.
Later, Ed tells Stede, “You saved my life.” Whilst Stede’s voice, handhold, and little chest thumps is certainly a catalyst, it’s Ed who reaches out, undoes his rope, knocks that ring, mirrors back, and takes it over the line.
It’s just the most perfect moment of tv, and most days, I still can’t believe it exists.