This blog post is so long over due that I have no excuse for its delay. So, here I am, Florence and the Machine screaming musical epicness into my brain, and pouring it all out.
So, here it is:
Dear Twilight Fans:
What happened?
Now, Ladies, this letter is not for those of us who read the book and then saw the movie, and recognized the numerous bad points (Kristen Stewart) and the good (the soundtrack), and didn't lie to ourselves about it. This is not for those of us who saw the movies and recognized them as the absolute waist of time and then vowed not to watch anymore, but still harbored a certain respect for the books.
Because, do not misunderstand me. Much of the Twilight movies was commendable. Much was just a horrific example of movie making. I mean, seriously. Who casts an expressionless person as the lead? And then tries to cover it up with sweeping landscape shots?
This is for those of you who mindlessly love the movies and fail to see just how completely awful they truly are. I mean, have you actually read the books? Not even the Twilight series, just a book in general?
For instance, have you read Jane Eyre? The story of a lonely women, abused by everyone around her, who stands up for herself and love, by leaving the very man she loves, and then proceeds, realistically, rather then bury herself in grief, to earn a living and make a life, until the man she loves is free to return her affections?
Or Pride and Prejudice? The story of sisters on the look out for matches, but refuse to be walked all over by any man. And do it in Edwardian England?
Or maybe, for a more modern reader, how about A Great and Terrible Beauty series? The story of a young women, trying to resurrect a secret society her mother was involved, and her ability to take on any force that comes her way, all in the confines of her Victorian boarding school.
How about Much Ado About Nothing? Ok, I know its a play, but still. A story of wrong accusation, and the consequences of jealousy. Still, riddled with strong women, and real men.
Stories, filled with dynamic characters, strong women who stand up for themselves, and true men, who, risk everything for love, but still manage to keep their honor. And who don't sparkle.
Ladies, you are obsessed with a dream. Aside form the fact that for thousands of years, vampires have been associated with evil and demons, a dream who would like nothing better then to eat you for lunch. And one who sparkles. And is perpetually 17. That is just awkward.
So what happened? Why aren't you looking for the Rochester's, and Darcy's, and Kertick's, and Benedict's of the world? Rochester, mysterious, and sometimes down right mean, but willing to do anything to have you. Darcy, brooding and always thinking of the honorable thing. Kertick, the one willing to sacrifice himself to let you live. Benedict, infuriating and frustrating, but the sweet guy who makes you laugh.
See, the thing is, they loved amazing, but everyday, ordinary women. Jane, plain, lonely, but made strong by her hardship. Lizzy, impulsive and compulsive, sometimes with foot in mouth syndrome, but strong and loyal to her family. Gemma, unsure of herself, but still devoted to a better world. Beatrice, sweet and spicy, mouthy, and only willing to give her heart to a man who won't break it.
The Darcy's and Rochester's of the world exist. But they aren't looking for an undynamic waist of space to fill their beds. They are looking for real women. Women who "carry on" even when they are gone. Women who are strong, even in their insecurity. Loyal women, to a fault, who will live life everyday in betterment of who they are. Women who recognize that true perfection lies in imperfection. Real women.
So, ask yourself. Are you a Bella Swan: vapid, paralyzed by the loss of your vampire love?
Or, are you a Jane, Lizzy, Gemma, or Beatrice: Strong, loyal, and real?
So, put childish dreams away, and look for the real women inside of you. And if you can't find her, then don't look for an "Edward" to make her for you. Look to the examples that are right in front you.
And do us all a favor. Read a real book.
Sincerely,
A Real Women.
