Unique Relationship Patterns

I've recently begun looking for unique relationship patterns in literature (and other media). I'm looking for truly out-of-the-maintstream yet emotionally real situations in which people relate to each other - family members, lovers, friends, enemies, acquaintences, any relationship where people choose to connect in a real way that doesn't follow the standard patterns. You know the patterns - draw a box around "a friend" and we can all name ten things it is OK for "a friend" to do with us, for us, or to us. We can all name another ten actions that would move that person to a different box with a different set of ensuing expectations, or, conversely, end the relationship altogether. I'm interested in events and situations that push the envelope - where connection is maintained and strengthened in unique ways. Where the boxes get dumped overboard in favor of vulnerability and the ability to sit through difficult feelings to see what's on the other side.

The search so far has resulted in a lot of dead ends and a few surprising and delicious rewards. For instance, in "The God of Small Things" byArundhati Roy the two main characters, a brother and sister, have sex as adults after a long separation as a way to reconnect. Nobody was damaged, nobody was victimized, nobody freaked out. A brother and sister connected through sex. Cool. A unique relationship pattern.

In "Merry Meet" the second "Circle of 3" book (a series of books about teenagers entering Wicca), a teenage girl lies about her circumstances to hide the fact that she is homeless and also practicing magic irresponsibly. The lesson learned by those who were lied to is not just forgiveness or compassion but most importantly that people in small communities are going to keep bumping into each other and no matter how ugly things get or how hurt you are, resolution between individuals is important for the sake of the community. Amen and a good lesson to learn in a town where we're bumping into our ex's for years.

In my new favorite book, "In This House of Brede" by Rumer Godden, one nun falls in love with another. The focus of the situation is on the responsibility of the woman who was fallen in love with to maintain friendship with the lusting one and help her work through her feelings so that all may maintain not only celibacy but strong community. Wow. Cool. Unique.

If you come across unique patterns of any variety in literature or other media, please pass them my way.