Okay guys but "is it really you standing there, or am I dreaming once more?" literally begs for a Penelope who decided to cope by pretending Odysseus was with her.
Penelope who wakes up every morning to kiss the bundle of pillows beside her because that's where he would've been if he was there. Penelope who glances over at Telemachus' cradle, no doubt something Odysseus carved himself, while she keeps record of how much he'd grown. Penelope who talks about her day to her imagined Odysseus, always at her side. Penelope who laughs at the quips he's not there to make, but knows he would. Penelope who talks the mirror through her outfit, because Odysseus would've been standing right there behind her. Penelope who's self aware enough to know that Odysseus is not there, but chooses to leave space at the table for him anyways. Penelope who doesn't take up the whole olive bed at night, even when Telemachus has a nightmare and comes to sleep next to her. Penelope who complains to her wedding ring as she adjusts her veil when the suitors start to arrive. Penelope who tells Telemachus everything Odysseus would have wanted to, in his stead. Penelope who tells herself she loves him every moment she can get to herself. Penelope who asks her beloved husband not to cry, while in tears herself. Penelope who asks nobody in particular for feedback on the shroud, knowing she'll undo it all later. Penelope who discusses The Challenge with him in detail before even thinking of announcing it.
