Are Literary Characters Just Fictional Affections, or More?

I have to confess a serious weakness for literary characters. Iu2019ve fantasized about a relationship with a fictional entity more than a real-life person. But is this really love?

The Intrigue of Fictional Love

The idea that we can fall in love with a beings that exist within the pages of a book is both fascinating and amusing. I do believe, however, that what I feel for these characters is more akin to a deep admiration and admiration rather than true love. Unlike the reality of love, which requires a genuine desire to contribute joy and happiness to the other's life, a book character is not capable of reciprocating in the same way. More often than not, a crush on a book character is a one-sided affair. It's about the journey and the joy of the connection, rather than a true, engaging, and reciprocal relationship.

My Current Crush: Annabeth Chase

Currently, my affection lies with Annabeth Chase, a hero from the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. She embodies the spirit of Athena, displaying wisdom, bravery, resourcefulness, and a sense of humor. She's kind, sweet, and a true friend to Percy. Despite my admiration, I'm fully aware of the unrealistic nature of my feelings. Percy, or rather, any relationship with a fictional character, will always carry a touch of fantasy and unattainability. After all, you can't marry or kiss a book character, can you?

A Brief History of My Crushes

My first book crush was none other than Sherlock Holmes, at a tender age of 10. Though Sherlock is portrayed as asexual in the original stories, we can imagine him as being something more to a young fan like me. The image of him as a model of courage, integrity, and loyalty was quite irresistible. Followed closely was Tolkienu2019s character Strider, a symbol of unwavering courage and kindness. Strider's words: u201cAll that is gold does not glitter. Not all those who wander are lost.u201d resonated powerfully with a young fan. More recently, I developed a special fondness for the demonic character, Crowley, from the book Good Omens. He is portrayed as mischievous and attractive, and his physical appeal is heightened by David Tennant's portrayal in the Amazon Prime series. This journey of imagination and admiration for a series of characters is both imaginative and delightful.

Fantasizing About Literary Characters

Many of us can relate to this sentiment. Nancy Drew, the intrepid heroine of mystery stories, held my heart when I was 10 or 11. I dreamed of rescuing her from the villains in her stories, only for her to return the favor and shower me with affection. She's a fine example of a long-lasting crush on a book character. Another character who often complicates my fantasy is Ceu00e9Nedra from the Belgariad. Fighting for her love against Belgarion adds an interesting twist to the romantic entanglements. And of course, there's Caroline Ryan, the highest fictional love interest from the Jack Ryan stories, though I can't help but admire the series' male lead as well. My attraction to literary characters is as much about the storytelling as it is about the perfect personification of ideal qualities. Each book, each character, offers a unique and enchanted world to sink into.

The Appeal of these Crushes

When I immerse myself in a book, I become a part of the universe it creates. These characters are so vivid and real to me that it's easy to fall in love with the idealized and often perfect version of them that the author presents. The appeal of these crushes lies in the escapism, the feeling of companionship, and the journey through a world full of magic and mystery. The creator of the fictional world becomes the storyteller, and the reader becomes the passenger on a grand adventure. Each line, each description, and each character is part of a wider narrative that touches our hearts and feeds our imagination.

While my husband is possibly my biggest fan when it comes to our interests, he does have a bit of a tolerance for my affectionate fantasies about fictional entities. After all, a little daydreaming is harmless, isn't it? Just make sure to pour your love into the right places!