Although "True Blood" has, in recent seasons, struggled to keep its various storylines connected to one another, the currently running fifth season has done a great deal to remedy that. In addition, it has also brought in some other elements that have continued to make this one of the tastiest shows on television.
Pam's Backstory
Among all of the new storylines introduced this season, arguably one of the most fascinating (and certainly the most well-written) has been the ongoing backstory developed for Eric's second-in-command Pam. The backstory segments allow us to gain a more nuanced and emotionally resonant understanding of Pam who, up until this point, has been something of a side character. Now, however, we come to realize just how deep her feelings for Eric go and to what lengths she was willing to go in order to join in in the vampire life.
Jason's Angst
Though some might find Jason's recent storylines tangential to the central story of the season, it can also be argued that his recent revelations about his sexual proclivities add some much-needed depth to his up-to-this-point shallow character. His recent bout of soul-searching allows us to see just what makes him tick, while also showing us that there is more to him than just a great body and a ruthless and seemingly insatiable sex drive. Now, we understand that there is indeed something deeply wrong with Jason, and we are willing to go along his emotional journey with him.
Bill and Eric
Finally, we come to Bill and Eric, whose storyline has been one of the flagships of this season, carrying the action when some of the others tend to meander. Although they have yet to undertake their quest for the missing (but still very dangerous Russell), the possibility that they will have a run-in with the renegade king keeps us wanting to know what happens. The fact that we also get glimpses into the inner workings of the much-vaunted and discussed Vampire Authority helps keep this storyline moving and keeps fans engaged, as well.
So, there are clearly a lot of things to like about this newest season of "True Blood." If the writers can keep up the momentum of this deliciously sexy vampire soap opera, then we can also begin to hope that HBO will do what it has done several times before, namely, renew this show for yet another season of supernatural goodness.
