Nerd in Another City

I am a gigantic nerd for all things Jane Austen. Many women are. In a world in which romance is rapidly vanishing, the Austen novels offer up some of the most romantic stories available to humanity!

My two very favorite Austen men are Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice and Captain Wentworth from Persuasion. They are both men of strong character, who fall deeply in love with women of strong character and man, do they know to write a good letter!

When his hopes were dashed and charges laid against him, Mr. Darcy takes the chance to make sure his love knows the truth of circumstances. Writing a lengthy letter of explaination and entreaty. Sort of a last ditch effort to convince her of his very good character. (Spoiler alert: it ends up working!!)

Captain Wentworth’s heart was broken 8 years before he pens his letter to the very lady who broke it. After entering into her company again, bound and determined not to repeat the past, Wentworth realizes his struggles are in vain and that Anne will always be the only woman he could be happy marrying. “You pierce my soul…”

So, men of the world, take a lesson from two of the most romantic figures in literary history. Pick up a pen and write a letter. Be it one of declaration, explanation or of mere greeting. I’m telling you… it works!