I have big news to share with everyone today: I am in love.
Before you get too excited, I will admit that the man I’m in love with isn’t exactly real. Even if he were, my situation would still be hopeless because he’s deeply in love with someone else, and his devotion to her makes me all the more attracted to him. This is by far the nerdiest crush I’ve ever had, and it’s on none other than Mr. Darcy of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.
Disclaimer: If you haven’t read Pride and Prejudice, seriously consider whether or not you wish to keep reading. Subtle plot points might be given away.
Without any further ado, here are all the times Mr. Darcy has proved he’s perfect:
1. When he says Elizabeth’s looks are “tolerable”
OK, so this may not seem like the most romantic thing to say to a woman, but it only shows that Mr. Darcy really loves Elizabeth—for more than just her looks. Mr. Darcy, I’ll have you know that my looks are tolerable as well.
2. When he starts noticing Elizabeth’s pretty eyes
Ah, so Mr. Darcy is totally a closet romantic! But only after he found delight in Elizabeth’s playful personality did he begin finding her physically attractive. (Had they met on Tinder, he might’ve swiped left. Good thing Tinder didn’t exist in those days.)
3. When he asks Elizabeth to dance even though she’d already rejected him once before
You go, Mr. Darcy. That was a total YOLO move. Thanks for showing us that today—and every day—is about dreams. *wipes away tears*
4. When he writes long letters to his younger sister
We were all once into the bad boy with his leather jacket andBritish pop-star haircut, but that was when we were sixteen and didn’t know any better. Nowadays, the “bad boy” caricature just doesn’t cut it. But a guy who cares for his sister and mom?Unbearably sexy.
5. When he is engrossed in a book
Playing a sport is great and playing the guitar is great too (as long as he’s not always playing “Wonder Wall” because that song just screams “tool”), but for me personally, there’s nothing more attractive than a man who recreationally reads.
6. When he awkwardly sits there, talking to no one, just to be in Elizabeth’s company
Her presence is enough for him. Sigh.
7. When he bolts into the room and announces his love for Elizabeth, despite the fact that he’s bad at expressing his feelings
I almost can’t handle how a-dork-able he is.
There is a lot—A LOT—more that I could say about Mr. Darcy, but I don’t want to give away the entire book. As winter approaches and you start to feel lonely and cold, pick up a copy of Pride and Prejudice. Mr. Darcy will keep you warm.
