An Analysis of Season 3A's Love Triangle
In Season 3A, Hook is used to juxtapose Neal (just like their introductions in "Tallahassee") to make Neal look like the healthier, better option in the love triangle. Contrary to popular belief, the Captain Swan relationship in this half season is portrayed as toxic and unhealthy.
Hook’s romantic interest in Emma only goes beyond flirting after he learns Neal (Baelfire) is Henry’s father and Emma’s ex, a major red flag given Hook’s romantic history with Neal’s mother, Milah. On Neverland, Hook bonds with Emma over Neal’s supposed death, but this connection is built on lies: Hook falsely claims he and Neal were close friends while Neal was in Neverland. In reality, Hook faked the friendship to gain intelligence on how to kill his father, then betrayed Neal by selling him to the Lost Boys and abandoning him for centuries, something that Emma never learns about.
Hook and Emma first kiss was transactional, a reward for Hook saving Emma's father's life. After Emma thanks Hook, Hook challenges her, stating "That all your father's life is worth to you?". Emma is the one to kiss him but only after being practically dared to while in an emotionally vulnerable state. This is contrasted in a later episode by Neal convincing Rumple to save David's life for no cost or expectations from Emma.
Hook’s actions become even more toxic once Neal reunites with the group. After hearing Neal and Emma confess that they still love each other, he tells Neal about his and Emma’s “dalliance.” He does this purposely, knowing Neal’s hatred for lies (the reason Neal’s friendship with Hook ended badly before) and that the word “dalliance” implies more than just a kiss that Emma later downplays. Hook’s revelation was solely intended to hurt Neal emotionally.
In the next few episodes, Hook takes advantage of Neal's pain and tension around him by continuing to pursue Emma aggressively. Hook provokes Neal until Neal snaps, leading to the immature lighter fight, which casts Neal in a negative light and prompts Emma to reject him.
Afterwards, Neal apologizes to Emma for his immature actions. This is contrasted by Hook showing no remorse for his part of the lighter fight. Hook has no guilt since he did what he intended: made Neal look bad in Emma's eyes.
Overall, Hook’s relentless pursuit of Emma, despite her repeated rejections, is not romantic or positive but a sharp contrast to Neal’s approach of giving Emma space and autonomy. Neal respects Emma’s choices, letting her decide when and how to engage emotionally. Neal is the healthier and more emotionally mature option in the love triangle, which is why Emma gradually softens toward him during this season.
This interpretation is supported by the showrunners (A&E) and some cast members, including Jennifer Morrison who referred to Hook as "Emma’s night in Vegas.” Hook was intended to be a fun detour, not Emma's ultimate partner and endgame.
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