In the animated world of Family Guy, the Griffin family’s anthropomorphic dog, Brian, has always been more than just a pet. Brian Griffin, a sophisticated, martini-sipping canine, often finds himself in creative pursuits, including his aspirations of becoming a successful writer. One of the most memorable episodes highlighting Brian’s literary journey is when he writes a bestseller. This article explores this episode, its satirical take on literary success, and the cultural commentary it provides.
The Episode: “Brian Writes a Bestseller”
The episode “Brian Writes a Bestseller” is the sixth episode of the ninth season of Family Guy. It aired on November 21, 2010, and delves into Brian’s frustrations with his writing career and the eventual, unexpected success he finds in writing a self-help book.
Plot Summary
The episode begins with Brian lamenting his lack of success as an author. Despite his high self-regard and belief in his literary talent, his works have not been well-received, and he struggles with the reality of his unremarkable career. His friend Stewie, the family’s diabolical yet lovable infant, suggests that Brian should write something more commercial rather than striving for highbrow literary acclaim.
Taking Stewie’s advice, Brian writes a self-help book titled Wish It, Want It, Do It, which becomes an overnight sensation. The book’s success skyrockets Brian to fame, bringing wealth, media appearances, and adoration. However, the sudden fame and fortune also lead to a growing ego and strained relationships with his friends and family.
Satirical Elements
1. Commentary on Literary Fame:
- The episode satirizes the nature of literary success, suggesting that commercial appeal often trumps genuine literary talent. Brian’s self-help book, with its simplistic and clichéd advice, gains immense popularity, highlighting the sometimes arbitrary nature of fame in the publishing world.
- Example: Brian’s previous works, which he considers intellectually superior, fail to gain traction, while a book pandering to mass-market appeal becomes a bestseller.
2. Critique of Self-Help Culture:
- The show critiques the self-help industry, portraying it as filled with banal platitudes that nonetheless attract a large audience. Brian’s book, Wish It, Want It, Do It, is a direct jab at the many self-help books that promise success through minimal effort and vague positivity.
- Example: The title itself mocks the oversimplification of achieving one’s goals, implying that mere wishing and wanting are sufficient.
3. Impact of Fame on Personal Relationships:
- Brian’s transformation from a struggling writer to a bestselling author also explores the impact of fame on personal relationships. His growing arrogance and self-importance alienate those closest to him, including Stewie, who initially helped him achieve success.
- Example: This serves as a broader commentary on how fame can distort one’s character and strain friendships and family bonds.
Cultural Commentary
The episode not only entertains but also provides a satirical lens through which to view the publishing industry and the concept of success. It suggests that true talent and intellectual effort are often overlooked in favor of marketability and mass appeal. Additionally, it pokes fun at the ephemeral nature of fame and how quickly public opinion can elevate or dismiss individuals based on their perceived success.
Brian’s Character Arc
Brian’s journey in this episode is a microcosm of his broader character arc throughout the series. He embodies the struggle between artistic integrity and commercial success, a theme that resonates with many aspiring writers and creatives. His ultimate realization of the hollowness of his fame serves as a critique of the value placed on superficial achievements.
“Brian Writes a Bestseller” is a quintessential Family Guy episode that combines humor with sharp social commentary. Through Brian’s unexpected rise to literary fame, the episode explores themes of artistic integrity, the pitfalls of the self-help industry, and the often arbitrary nature of success. By the end of the episode, viewers are left to ponder the true meaning of success and the price of fame, all while enjoying the clever satire that Family Guy is known for.
In the end, Brian’s experience serves as a humorous yet poignant reminder that genuine fulfillment often lies beyond mere public acclaim and commercial success.