Did anyone else think that Joan wouldn’t make it to the convent? Well, she does in The Space Between Section 15.
We get another name in the story that we already know. Claire wants to know of Mother Hildegarde is still alive, and I have to admit that I was so excited to hear this name. It also started to make me think of a few theories connected to Outlander season 8, but we’ll touch on that separately.
Breaking down The Space Between Section 15
The section itself is mostly from Michael’s point of view, but it’s about Joan. He has made it to the convent with her, but he is curious if this is the right thing. He doesn’t want to leave her without making sure that this is what she wants. The poor thing is shaking and crying beside him, so it’s not surprising that he thinks that she doesn’t want this even though she says that she does.
The truth is we can be crying and shaking but still want something. This is the first time Joan has been away from home. All those thoughts that she’s had in the run up to this are likely playing on her mind. Here we get a young girl whose dream is coming true; potentially a dream she never thought would happen because of her mom.
While at the gates of the convent, Michael gives her his handkerchief, which I think is such a sweet thing to do. The two are going to be connected by their journey across a sea. He then sees that Joan has other items, including a letter from Claire. Joan asks if Mother Hildegarde is still alive, and it turns out that she is, and she will be most interested in meeting Joan.
Could this chapter be used in a TV series adaptation?
Yes, if The Space Between is adapted, there is no doubt that this section would need to be used. It’s the point that we have been waiting for: Joan getting to the convent. There are times in the short story that we have to wonder if it will happen.
Plus, this sets up for Joan meeting Mother Hildegarde. It is a name that we need to hear, as we also remember how much time has passed since Outlander season 2. There is a surprise that Mother Hildegarde is still alive, but Joan needs this connection now more than ever.
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