Historically, romance novels and movies have provided a welcoming environment for women. Romantic fiction specifically has been dominant within the book market, as people are always wanting to fall in love with the idea of lust and infatuation again.
Romance stories provide escapism and help people form communities around shared interests. Although romance has long been part of our culture, it is now being recognized as more than just a light genre. We are currently enjoying a golden age of romance books and adaptations, and I could not be more excited about it.
Social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram have also developed a digital world where people feel comfortable sharing their favorite recommendations, reviews and communities.
Lexi Arancio of Emerald Media wrote, “This renaissance is not just a result of changing tastes, but a testament to the power of digital communities in shaping contemporary entertainment trends.”
Recent popular releases include the Netflix adaptation of Emily Henry’s “People We Meet on Vacation,” the worldwide phenomenon “Heated Rivalry” television adaptation based on the novels by Rachel Reid and Emerald Fennell’s reimagining of Emily Brontë’s “Wuthering Heights” starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi.
We are constantly hearing the phrase “a man written by a woman,” but what does that really mean in today’s context? Generally, we target male celebrities we perceive as being emotionally intelligent and a representation of respectful masculinity. Some may call this the “bare minimum” for their partner, while others see this as unrealistic expectations to put on another person.
How does this perspective affect women today? Well, for one, there is a shift in the socio-political climate, and the impact that it’s having on today’s dating scene.
An article by Allie Daisy King for Missing Perspective says that there are “a multitude of studies showing that women are becoming more progressive whilst men are becoming more conservative.”
In another sense, we are discussing fictional men who are literally written by women for women. When we consume stories created by people who understand our desired treatment, we develop higher expectations for real-life love.
This is because we see, even if only in fiction, that such love is possible. We read and watch different forms of media to get an idea of what we could have in our lives, providing a lust for happiness and a hope to never settle for less than what we deserve.
This can be a positive experience, as you can realize your self-worth, promote healthier standards and achieve emotional satisfaction.
According to Gregory Matos of Psychology Today, “We have an opportunity to revolutionize romantic relationships and establish new, healthier norms starting with the first date.”
On the other hand, the article goes on to state how men are experiencing an increase in loneliness, as their dating opportunities are diminishing and relationship standards keep rising. These narratives allow us to express ourselves and find similarities between what we expect to enter our lives and what is pinned up as fictional.
Do I expect Tom Blythe as Alex to enter into my life and admit his endless love for me? Perhaps not. However, I don’t necessarily believe that it is a terrible thing for people to hold their partners to a higher standard, especially when wanting to find someone to spend life with.
Through these characters, although fictional, we can engage others and foster positive impact within our communities. We also have the ability to collectively create a culture that appreciates and strives for better, more supportive relationships.
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