⚠️spoiler alert ⚠️

Twins at the Carousel - Fe3h animation

HELLO dw this doesn't read as hate at all!!! I only have my own interpretations that are subject to scrutiny and being wrong just like anyone else lsdgbkjgds so I really appreciate your perspective!! Also my yesterday gripes were spurred by seeing someone say Duke named himself after the bat signal which is so wrong it offended my soul 😭😭 I don't actually mind when people who like & read Duke talk about his relationship with the bat signal like you're doing here!!

You're sooo spot on about Duke bridging the bats and social work (or the bats/Gotham civilians). In fact one of the best aspects of Duke's belief in community is that although it's tied to Gotham, it is incredibly expansive, and in that way he acts as a connector between disparate groups. He more or less says this in Rise of the Power Company!!!

He talks about "making the load less heavy for everyone" which entails jumping between groups such as WAR and the Batfam (and the Outsiders, whose rotating 'fifth chair' it itself an example of Duke's philosophy). He acts not as the focal point or leader of these groups but as the bridge between groups, to foster collaboration and solidarity. I adore your description of him as a 'bridge', because that's exactly what he is!!

And like you said I think Duke's focus is not on victim vs. perpetrator but on an understanding of how societal forces shape both victim and perpetrator. As seen in his reaction to the Robin who shoots a cop in Robin War, Duke is acutely aware that classifications of 'innocence' and 'guilt' are not neutral and are influenced by class, race, gender, and more. Which is exactly how his understanding of his mom's social work does blend into his bat responsibilities!! This is the foundation of his moral & vigilante philosophy and indeed the core of why he calls himself 'Signal'!

Rolling up a character on a slow night.

It’s his absence and distance. Dick foundationally is the potential older brother/inspiration for young Jason to look up to, not a regular presence in his life.

It’s what makes the relationship different and distinguishable!

If you want hands on brotherly bonding where they’re hanging out constantly, Dick and Tim are right there.