10 Depressing Truths Bojack Horseman Will Teach You
6. No-one Is Obliged To Forgive Anyone
This is another narrative that we often see on TV and in real life. The concept that the victim should validate the feelings of the guilty party if they request it. Saying that you are sorry and being genuinely remorseful is a vital thing to do. However, no one is under any obligation to forgive you purely because you want them too.
This is seen so many times in the show, and it never gets any less powerful. One of the best examples has to be Bojack's relationship with director Kelsey Jannings. We see him wrong her in the series but never actually get the satisfying conclusion of her saying that it is okay. Like Bojack himself, we want to see this validation, but ultimately she never feels the need to give it because she doesn't forgive him and that is her right.
There is an equally powerful narrative with Herb Kazzaz, the creator of Horsin' Around. Herb does not allow Bojack to feel good about himself for apologising as he is still hurt and betrayed by his actions. Their story culminates without the traditional acceptance we see in TV.
In the end, if you hurt someone, they don't have to forgive you, even if you genuinely change.