Daryl and Carol: Can They Ship Without the Ship?

I have to admit, I really wasn’t familiar with the term shipping until one episode of Castle and Talking Dead. I’m well aware of it now. If you don’t know what a ship is, it is short for relationship and often shippers are quite invested in the relationships and potential ships of fictional characters in television shows and combine the names of the characters into one à la Brangelina.

I was never a big Bethl (Beth/Daryl) shipper for many reasons, but Beth is gone now so that’s irrelevant. I always liked the idea of Caryl (Daryl and Carol) as friends and a potential ship until recently. Some of my reasons go along with recent Norman Reedus sentiments expressed to E!

"“The thing is, once you do that, it’s done. I like all the awkward things in between that make a person and make it honest. I think that that character, once he shacks up with somebody, he’s going to be with them for life.”"

I agree. Daryl wouldn’t have a casual fling. I’m glad The Walking Dead doesn’t have a soap opera feel. They have become so interesting as friends. I have had similar situations personally, where I might have had romantic feelings for someone, but for whatever reason, the window closed and the friendship solidified in such a way that the other person didn’t feel that way anymore. I think that window has closed or is very close to closing for Daryl and Carol.

That doesn’t mean what they share is any less valuable. Especially in an apocalypse environment. They were both vital, crucial elements in each other’s development. They offered and received strength, comfort, confidence and worth.

Neither was available or ready for a relationship the way they were. They’ve given each other the gift of becoming worthy of being in a relationship whether it be with each other or someone new. I think they would want that happiness for each other even if it hurt a little.

Are you a shipper? Were you a Bethyler? Are you a Caryler? Am I crazy? Let me know about your ships. #richonne #abrachonne #dixonne I like any of those!

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