So you know exactly what's going to happen with The Sun plotline, huh Mr. Goldberg? Have you considered the possibility that MAYBE Simon is playing on that expectation? I hope your smug statement doesn't embarrass you in a few weeks (okay, I hope it does).

There are certainly multiple examples of direct (and ineffective) moralizing on The Wire, dating back to the first episodes. And there have also always been characters that were one dimensional (don't forget that weak-kneed social worker from last season). But in the end the STORIES always offer a more complex understanding of the challenges faced--not only by individuals, but by the institutions Simon and co. loathe so much (even they are part of a greater, more unforgiving system, after all).

This season may prove to be a disappointment, of course. But two episodes is way to early to be alarmed.

I agree. The only reason they feel these scenes are "telegraphed" is because for the first time, they have a window into the origins of a storyline from "The Wire". You think the folks who work in the police department or the schools don't see things coming far ahead of time in their plotlines? Try not to be so myopic, guys.

I think I can give a good example of this. Many of my family members are docworkers in Baltimore (Season 2). There were pleanty of exagerations and inaccracies in that season. However I could still see throught this to the wonderful story line. Any drama not going to be exactly like the real thing.