The Park

What is it about Jane Austen novels that makes me want to fall madly and deeply in-love? Sigh.

True, there is more to her novels than simply romance, courtship, and marriage; she tackles the subtle nuances of the politics between the social classes. She describes a social stratta clearly divided by wealth, rank, and connections. She writes of the complex culture of the old world ruled by a strange set of tacit bylaws. Yet, truth be told, my romantic heart rather focus on the simpler qualities of her stories, familial and passionate love.

As many Janeites, I am completely and undoubtedly partial to her last novel, Persuasion. Lovers separated by the inevitable politics of classes, Anne Elliot and Captain Wentworth experiences eight years of silent anguish. However, in traditional Austen fashion, they reunite and declare their undying love. Sigh again.

Remember Capt. Wentworth’s letter to Anne? He says, “You pierce my soul. I am half agony, half hope.” And later on he adds, “I have loved none but you.” Jelly knees. I think it tops P&P’s F. Darcy’s “You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.”

So yeah, I am amidst some serious Jane Austen lurving tonight. (Taken out of context, that sounds creepy and wacked.)