The Flatshare

Content Warning: The source text and this guide include discussion of emotional abuse and manipulative behavior in relationships. 

Post-it notes are the clearest physical symbol of how Leon and Tiffy’s relationship grows over time. Their correspondence starts when Tiffy bakes something and leaves a note telling Leon that he can have some. From there, they begin to leave notes to each other frequently. Soon, Post-its cover every surface of their flat, sometimes even in layers. If they were to go back and read every note in chronological order, they would see their tones grow from polite and tentative, to friendly and funny, to flirty, and finally, to romantic and personal. Leon even proposes to Tiffy by writing her a note because that is the mode of communication that brought them together and is so unique to their story, which is founded on Building Trust and Intimacy Through Unconventional Means.

Post-its connote casual communication; they are often used to jot reminders to oneself or very short messages to others. They also contrast sharply with the grand gestures Justin uses to try to win Tiffy over again. The sticky notes are humble and inexpensive yet colorful, reflecting both Leon’s practicality and Tiffy’s sense of whimsy.