This episode originally aired on January 14, 2003 on The WB
“That’ll Do, Pig” delicately intertwines themes of acceptance, change, and the unique festivities of Stars Hollow. The episode unfolds around the town’s Winter Carnival, providing a colorful and engaging backdrop for the characters’ stories.
One of the central events is the town’s annual living painting festival, where residents participate by recreating famous paintings. Lorelai is persuaded to join, which leads to amusing and endearing moments showcasing the tight-knit community and their shared enthusiasm for quirky traditions.
Rory’s personal life sees significant developments as she navigates her new relationship with Jess. While they share undeniable chemistry, Rory struggles with Jess’s nonchalant attitude towards school and her friends, highlighting the contrasts between him and Dean. The arrival of Dean’s new girlfriend, Lindsay, adds another layer of tension and complexity to the dynamic.
Simultaneously, Emily tries to set Lorelai up with a man named Chase, against her daughter’s wishes. Lorelai, sensing an opportunity, tries to divert Emily’s attention by encouraging her interest in participating in the festival’s whaling painting.
Memorable quotes from this episode of Gilmore Girls:
Lorelai: “Life’s a canvas, and sometimes you get painted into a corner.”
Rory: “New relationships are like new shoes. Exciting but they need breaking in.”
Emily: “Sometimes, you have to throw the harpoon, even if you don’t know if you’ll hit the whale.”
Jess: “Not fitting in isn’t a failure. It’s just a different kind of success.”
Lorelai: “In the carnival of life, sometimes you’re the rider, sometimes you’re the operator, and sometimes you’re the pig.”
Dean: “Moving on isn’t a straight line; it’s a path with a lot of carnival booths along the way.”
