You all know what I mean.
How could Katniss possibly choose between Peeta and Gale?
How could Bella ever choose between Jacob and Edward?
How could Ilsa Lund choose between Rick Blaine and Victor Laszlo?
It’s a plot device. It lets them draw out the drama for as long as possible. It’s a cheap way to produce romantic conflict where there otherwise wouldn’t be any. And we see it all the time.
Usually it’s built on this foundation: a woman loves two men but must make an impossible choice between them. It’s an overused trope that at first seems to challenge our views on monogamy (hence, the drama and conflict) but in the end, reinforces toxic monogamy because– make no mistake– she will eventually end up with one of them, usually for arbitrary reasons.
Gale’s weaponry results in Katniss’ sister’s death, so she can’t possibly continue a relationship with him.
After Edward’s disappearance– and then reappearance– Bella suddenly realizes she can’t bear to live without him. So she chooses him. (But don’t worry, because Jacob imprints on her infant child. So it’s all good).
Rick Blaine basically makes Ilsa’s decision for her and she leaves on a plane with Victor.
It’s frustrating to see plots set up two love interests so equally– creating a situation where it would be utterly impossible to choose between them– and yet, when all is said and done, a choice is made.
All I can say is, what a missed opportunity for a happy ending with both. But that’s just my opinion. *eye roll*
