Baka-Updates Manga - Viewing Topic - Discussion on Chrysalis by INARIYA Fusanosuke

I really wanted to understand this story because of the beautiful art work adn imagery joined by such powerful symbolisms within the words.

But I was so confused. Mostly to do with the characters' pasts. Any body who loves this story, wanna devote some of their time to helping a dolt like me?

So, Douglas Carlisle (the guide) is the little brother of the man that Hinatsu fell in love with and didn't confess to him before he disappeared (died?). I think that is it. But I was confused in the critical flash back scene of the young boy asking the young man why he liked butterflies and moths. I know this was a critical scene because it was the moment SOMEBODY fell in love with SOMEBODY. Who were the two in the flash back? Was that Hinatsu as a young boy and the older man was Douglas Carlisle's brother? Or. . ?

I understand that Douglas Carlisle was inspired to live (after being near-fatally injured) by Hinatsu's photoart. (RIght?) Or was there something more? Did he have any past memories with Hinatsu through his brother?

Why did Hinatsu say this: "Do you know that inside a chrysalis, a pupae's body disolves completely in order to remake itself? If I also could do that, maybe it would be good." And this: "I'm angry, not because you deceived me, but simply because I've already come to despise myself." Why does he despise himself? Has Hinatsu decided he's not worthy of love. Or to not try again? Or not let anyone in?

"Take my hand and let me show you that I see you the same way he did." Douglas Carlisle said that to Hinatsu. And he takes his hand. (SQUEE: Love that and the on-their-knees scene in the forest earlier: Double Squee.) After they are intimate, Hinatsu says, when referring to the emerging butterfly, "Open window, let it follow its path." Is that symbolic of the fact that Hinatsu is going to try loving again with the younger brother?

Any discussion, comments, clarification would be most appreciated. I love this mangaka. She's quite fascinating for this old yaoi-lovin' gal here.

________________
"No one has ever written, painted, sculpted, modelled, built, or invented except literally to get out of hell."
~ Antonin Artaud