But, despite the way people have responded to chapter 61, I'm still sure it was all necessary, but I suppose that's because, as the writer, I have a different perspective on the story to the readers.
I'm not doubting that everything was necessary. I agree that Lisa had to let all this stuff out before she reenters the world and the war. It's just that I thought the transition was icky, as you said, lost in all the spider and Emma stuff.