Ep 4. Driving Mr. Mossback

In season two, episode four of Six Feet Under, we're introduced to the character of Bernard Chenowith, the estranged brother of Brenda's sex therapist boyfriend, Nate. The episode is primarily focused on the relationship between Bernard and his elderly father, Nathaniel Mossback.

Bernard returns to Los Angeles after a long absence to visit his father in the nursing home where he's residing. Nathaniel suffers from dementia and is mostly unresponsive to Bernard's attempts at conversation. One of the only things that seems to bring him joy is driving, so Bernard takes him on a joyride in an old convertible.

As they drive around, Bernard attempts to connect with his father by telling him stories about their family and upbringing. However, Nathaniel's dementia causes him to become confused and agitated at times, highlighting the difficulties of caring for someone with memory loss.

Meanwhile, Ruth struggles with her own feelings of guilt and confusion surrounding her adulterous relationship with Hiram, the florist. She confides in her sister, Sarah, who implores her to end things with Hiram and stay faithful to her husband, Nathaniel.

In the other storylines, Nate and Brenda attend a sex party hosted by her therapist and encounter some unexpected difficulties in their relationship. Claire continues to deal with the aftermath of her drug-fueled art show, and David and Keith confront their own insecurities in their relationship.

Overall, "Driving Mr. Mossback" explores themes of family, aging, and memory loss in a poignant and emotionally resonant way. The episode's focus on Bernard and Nathaniel's strained relationship, as well as Ruth's struggle to come to terms with her own infidelity, make for a compelling and emotionally charged viewing experience.