I think almost every teenage girl fell a little in love with fictional characters. When I was a teenager my favorite novels started with characters that I was infatuated in love with. But, As I grew older I left my fictional beaus behind and focused on real-life a lot more.
That is until I reread Pride and Prejudice again. While discussing Mr.Darcy’s charms I realized that my fictional loves molded the way that I interact with S/os in real life. I decided to put on my fangirl cap on one last time and thank my fictional beaus for the things they have taught me.
- Étienne, Josh, and Cricket from the Anna and the French Kiss series
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Dear boys from Anna and the French Kiss Series,
When I read (and reread) this book series I found myself attracted to all of the love interests in these stories. I felt like these boys symbolized the type of guy that I would later find out that I was attracted to. Passionate, kind, and interesting people who are confident without having to be overbearing. Thank you for teaching me that masculinity doesn’t always have to be toxic and for personally pulling me out of my “all boys are gross” phase.”.
- Edward Cullen from the Twilight Saga
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Dear Edward Cullen,
I think out of every man on this list I have dated men most like you. That isn’t a compliment Ed. Although I still and will always love Twilight I have no problem saying that the leading cast of characters isn’t the best. But, I’m still thankful to you Edward because you taught me that even the most “perfect” guys can still suck. You helped me realize that if a guy is too good to be true then he probably is.
- Piper Mclean from the Lost Hero series
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Dear Piper Mclean,
While reading this book series I couldn’t help but wonder if I was…a little gay. I think that part of the bisexual experience is realizing that some of the same-sex characters that you were “obsessed with” are actually characters that I was attracted to. So thanks for the bisexual awakening Piper?
- Mr.Darcy from Pride and Prejudice
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Dear Mr.Darcy,
By crushing over you I had the realization that first impressions aren’t always what it seems to be. Insta-love leads only to dating people like Mr.Whickem. Sometimes the most charming people need a little bit of time to warm up. Sometimes it’s worth the wait.
- Alice Cullen from the Twilight Saga
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Dear Alice Cullen,
Oh, Alice. Just like Piper, you made me question my sexuality like crazy. You also made me realize that I value aesthetics when it comes to finding a partner. A lot of people make fun of me when I tell them that one of my “deal breakers” is someone not dressing nicely or caring about their appearance. Despite how silly it is I can’t help but maintain this rule when it comes to dating.
Looking back on my literary crushes I find myself lucky. For the most part, my thoughts and ideas about dating and romance have been healthy and admirable thanks to all of the literary characters I’ve ever loved before.