Valentine's Day is fast approaching, so it will be the right time to recall the most memorable books on this subject. You can agree or disagree with the following:
The most authentic romance: "The Little Mermaid" by Hans Christian Andersen. You'll be surprised at it, as you had second thoughts about the Disney treatment of this fairy tale. Moreover, you recalled how your coursemates almost argued on Andersen's depiction of the titular character. It would be cruel to give up your tongue, which was the only way to be close to your true love. And the lack of speech turned it into a one-sided affair. Then again, you forgot the dark origins of fairy tales. The little mermaid fell short, so to speak, and she paid a price for it. Her case would make anyone's affair rather trivial (or a non-issue at all). It might be best to recall your lessons in literary analysis (if you happen to be an English major student). Otherwise, try to imagine the original version of this story. The little mermaid made a compromise, which was a huge one. This would be the first step.
The quintessential book on failed romance: "Anna Karenina" by Leo Tolstoy. Greta Grabo's portrayal could be considered the closest to Tolstoy's tale of a romance doomed from the very beginning. As a matter of fact, the author was able to articulate Anna Karenina's feelings. He could be a good listener, a common trait among authors. Readers may even believe Tolstoy's claim that he was a woman in his past life. This would be one long story, but the length didn't discourage those who love Tolstoy's writings. The passion could be felt (while reading those eloquent lines) while Tolstoy tried to recall what turned out to be a distant place from a distant time. It sounded like a fairy tale, right? If you were unable to describe this book in your assignment, then you would have another chance to read it again. You must take your time, though.
Books for the broken-hearted reader: The Brontë sisters win this one hands down. It had to do with them, as they all died at a young age. It wasn't a case of a broken heart, though. (Studies have shown that hygiene and lack of a vaccine against diseases led to their premature demise.) Many would guess Emily Brontë's "Wuthering Heights", as Heathcliff became a bitter, cruel man after Catherine's death. But Charlotte Brontë's "Villette" would be the one. Authors like Virginia Woolf were amazed at the ferocious feelings towards things beyond control, and these could have turned this novel into a fairy tale. The titular character didn't have it all, though. Her object of affection was unattainable to her. She could only cry, an anguish that should pierce the hearts of readers. You might be bitter yourself if you couldn't feel it.
It's fine if you disagree with the titles, but citing Shakespeare's plays would be obvious and quite redundant. There are countless titles in fiction, and it's up to you to find another set of noteworthy titles. Don't make us wait for it.
