Roadblocks on the path to the New World

"You're not saving the world Rick, you're just getting it ready for me." — Negan, "The Walking Dead."

"The Walking Dead" began its ninth season on Sunday, October 7. Throughout the season I'll be recapping the episodes each Monday, considering themes and where the series is headed.

It's not easy to build a new world. It's a beautiful idea, but it's far from simple to get it executed. Rick (Andrew Lincoln) allowed his mercy to overcome his wrath at the end of the eighth season, and it was in part fueled by his love for his son. So Negan (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) lived.

While Negan's presence hung over the premier, we didn't see him. Instead, he finally appeared in the second episode as Rick shared a vision of the future. As he said, "We're not just fighting to survive anymore. We're making a new beginning." Negan, from inside his prison cell, was less sure. In fact, he believes Rick's journey is just folly, a wish dream that can never become reality.

I want to believe. I want to believe that people can change and that society can be re-built. So does Rick. So do many. But it's been far from a smooth road.

Last night the group worked to build a bridge and maintain fragile alliances. Michonne (Danai Gurira) tried to talk to Maggie (Lauren Cohan) about making laws. It's a lesson that, possibly, seemed to stick. But Maggie will never let go of the fact that Rick let Negan live. Something that came to mind as Maggie talked of her decision to hang Gregory.

"Some people can be redeemed, and others can't," she said. No matter how far they progress, this seems like a road block that won't be cleared.

And the previews, which show Maggie and Daryl (Norman Reedus) discussing their displeasure at the new world order make it seem like Negan's words will ring true sooner than anyone had hoped. With Lincoln not long for the show, it seems clear that no matter his dream or his efforts, Rick's path to a new world will be blocked sooner or later. And that's a shame.

A few other items from the second episode:
* Carol's relationship with Ezekiel has been a treasure. I hope it continues and blossoms. It's two characters I never realized I wanted to see find happiness in each other, and yet they did.

* We are seeing the early signs of a new dangerous faction. The discussion of the missing folks from the Saviors who tried to make it home. And then the sequence at the end. What would this world be without conflict between people. Doubtless it will come from within and without.