Feb 08 2008
Romance Self-Defense VI
Today we continue tackling those negative stereotypes about romance. I will offer one, followed by what I think is a reasonable response. Since the goal is to present a united front, not create an army of rhetoric-spouting puppets, you should feel free to add your own touch. (If, like me, you have smartass and/or aggressive tendencies, just remember to wedge the thoughtful response somewhere between the sarcasm and jabs to the larynx.)
Negative Stereotype #6
Romance novels are brainless fluff requiring no thought.
Well-Reasoned Response
“I have recently read romance novels which addressed such thought-provoking issues as the subjectivity of the concepts of good and evil, substance abuse, domestic violence, social decay, natural disasters, terminal illness, racial tension, and international diplomacy, not to mention the ever-fascinating topic of interpersonal relations inherent in all romance novels, a subject to which entire fields of study are devoted.
I freely admit the romance novel I’m currently reading doesn’t challenge my perception of the universe in any meaningful way, but it’s fun, a precious commodity, the value of which those suffering from intellectual snobbery often fail to appreciate. Fun lowers blood pressure, thereby reducing risk of stroke, heart attack, and death. It strengthens the immune system, relieves pain, prevents ulcers, and staves off frown-induced wrinkles.
In addition to the numerous proven health benefits, laughter (a common side effect of fun) stimulates both sides of the brain, which enhances one’s learning ability. It eases muscle tension and psychological stress, resulting in the brain being more alert and retaining a greater quantity of information.
Furthermore, lack of humor causes thought processes to stagnate, so a reading regimen comprised of nothing but serious, bleak, and/or weighty works actually diminishes one’s mental agility.”
(Information regarding the wondrous benefits of laughter heavily excerpted from Helpguide.org. For the full text, see here.)
Kerry’s Personal Touch
“Fun also removes sticks from asses. Try it some time.”
I’ve given this stereotype all the thought I can, and this is the best I can come up with on my own. Contribute your suggestions to the movement, and together we will construct the Ultimate Defense of Romance!
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