‘Mad Men’ season 6, episode 9 preview: Why is Don out of town?

For the first time really all season long, a “Mad Men” promo has shown us something interesting, or at least something that is comprehensible beyond just people saying random, out-of-context quotes.

Basically, the tail end of the clip shows Don Draper visiting some sort of new territory, even if there is no clear answer right now as to where this is. Is he back in Los Angeles? That’s the popular / unconfirmed theory around the internet, given that he has traveled there before and certainly seems to be enjoying some sort of warmer climate. It also could make a little sense given that he is starting to break down somewhat in his familiar New York habitat, but is seeing Don retracing his steps yet again really that exiting? As a whole, this has been without a doubt the greatest problem with this season so far.

That is not to say that season 6 is devoid of issues in other places. We still have no idea why Roger and Joan no longer seem to matter, and why we’re also seeing more and more of other characters that we don’t know nearly as much about (or care to know, for that matter). It simply does not feel as though we are going anywhere, especially in the vein of new territory. There is subtlety, and then there is waiting in frustration. We’re not sure that this season has fully mastered the distinction just yet.

What do you think about this clip, and do you have any theories as to what in the world Don is up to? We want to hear more of your thoughts below! Also, be sure to also read our review from last night’s “Mad Men” episode by heading on over to the link here.

Photo: AMC