Romance novels – a genre often referred to as less but brimming with profound insights. While critics might brush them off as formulaic, there’s more to these stories than meets the eye. These serve as a captivating exploration of self-discovery and relationships, far beyond their seemingly predictable plots. Picture this: As you flip through the pages, you’re not just reading a love story – you’re experiencing it!
The emotions, the heartaches, the joys – they resonate with you. Through the characters, you reflect on your emotions and desires, gaining a deeper understanding of yourself. It’s like a mirror that reveals facets of your identity that might have otherwise remained hidden. And honestly, anything that helps you know yourself is educational!
Whenever I talk about this genre, I find myself being subject to ‘WHY’. Why are you a romance enthusiast? Why would you read numerous books that have seemingly repetitive plots? I have a theory. Think back to those Bollywood movies and TV shows we grew up with. They painted a world of perfection – ideal partners, perfect families, and happily-ever-afters. Reading romance is not about adopting these ideals; it’s about the escapist thrill of imagining “what if.” We know reality isn’t a scripted romance, but exploring those “perfect” scenarios is a guilty pleasure that allows us to stretch our imaginations. Also – it’s the allure of the unattainable. We’re consciously aware that these fairy-tale endings are rare in real life, but that doesn’t stop us from indulging in them. It’s like enjoying a fantasy adventure where the ordinary rules of life don’t apply!
However, in this discourse, I encounter a few questions:
- Why is there a disconnect? People often criticize romance novels for setting unrealistic relationship standards and making partners difficult to please. However, it’s important to recognize that some novels depict basic gestures, while others go above and beyond. This perception varies widely among readers, making it a subjective matter. However, what truly matters is the emphasis on understanding your partner’s preferences and fostering open communication about mutual expectations.
- Why don’t men lean into romance novels? Society often perceives certain genres, like romance novels, with a stereotypical lens. In this case, the stereotypes mostly resonate with expressions like ‘Mard ko dard nahi hota’ (A man does not feel pain). This limits the range of emotional experiences that men are “expected” to engage with and can lead to hesitation or discomfort. Society’s tendency to view expressions of emotion as a sign of vulnerability can make men reluctant to engage with stories that delve deeply into emotional themes. Encouraging diverse reading habits, discussions around gender norms, and the idea that emotional literacy is not tied to gender but to being human can help bridge the gap.
Girls, you’re not off the hook either. Many of us secretly enjoy romance novels but hesitate to admit it due to societal judgment. While we are circumvented by “societal roles”, defying stereotypes and societal expectations can help challenge the status quo and promote a more diverse and inclusive perspective on personal interests and hobbies. When you present a watered-down version of yourself, you attract the same from others as well, hindering your chances of forming meaningful and deep connections. Hence, I would say, “Luka chuppi bahut hui, Saamne aa ja na…” (Enough of hide and seek, it’s time to be upfront!).
As I conclude, I seek to emphasize that the power of romance novels extends far beyond their pages. They’re an exploration of emotions, a catalyst for self-awareness, and a guide to meaningful connections. It’s time to shed misconceptions and embrace the lessons and emotions that these novels offer. Let’s celebrate the hidden gems that shape our perceptions of love and life.
XOXO