Nov 26 2008
What I thought of *Twilight*
So, about Twilight… [Spoilers for the books may be here]
I liked the movie. Not in the gushy, teenage way and I don’t lust after teenage boys (only remember lusting over one and I married him already). But it intrigued me sufficiently to want to read the books.
Which is where I’ve been the past three days. Reading some 2200 pages of “teenage” vampire story. So, what did I think? I liked it. I found it thought-provoking and was genuinely charmed by Edward, in fact, completely. (Edward’s considerable absence in New Moon put it on my least favorite of the books for me). I liked Bella, too. Clearly, Stephenie Meyers is a character writer and, believe me, that’s my favorite kind of writer. There is also a noticeable (and sarcastic) sense of humor evident. And the ending of the series was tidy; I like that. All good things.
There were some attitudes and reactions, though, necessary to keep the plot in the direction wanted, that didn’t make much sense. Also, I’m not certain these books needed to be as long as they were. There was a lot of repetition. But I considered those relatively minor issues and, for the whole, these are among the most entertaining and charming novels I’ve read in this age category. And, remember, vampires don’t, as a general rule, strike me as sexy. Well, Edward has changed my mind.
On a side note, I’d read in a review that Edward’s self-control was intended as an analog for abstinence for premarital sex. As much as I’m not an advocate for teenage sex, I have to say I don’t think this will help that cause if, indeed, that was the intent. First, as Edward is close to 100 years old, he’s not really a teenager so the comparison kind of falls apart (he seriously depends on his years of experience). He looks 17, but he’s not. Secondly, Bella has effectively no self-control from a sexual standpoint. Not to seem critical, but I think it’s unlikely for girls to expect teenage males to be the responsible ones; no matter how one slices it, biology will always leave girls with the most to lose. Encouraging this mindset is unlikely to be good for precluding teenage sex (and I suspect many more girls than boys read these books). Lastly, this is three full books of intense sexual tension. Not a healthy way to discourage sex for teens. I don’t object to the books, but wanted to point out my view on that.
So, having finished these, I have asked myself why I found these so damn appealing, particularly the character of Edward. I am charmed by the distinct honesty, goodness and selflessness in many of the characters, how well they work together. But, primarily I think, I am a sucker for protective men and Edward might get the award for the most protective character of all times. Yes, I find that romantic. So, yes, Ms. Meyers managed to make a truly sexy vampire, in my opinion.
And I give Stephenie Meyers kudos for doing so without making without making Bella helpless or a loser.
I haven’t watched the film yet, but I’ve read the first three books, and I agree with the third one…it’s my least favorite, and it’s the reason I have yet to read the fourth one (though I have a friend with it, and she’s lending it to me Monday). I think Edward appeals because he’s what no man is at that age, wise, kind, and selfless. He’s what no young man can actually be.
I thought you’d like them, but so often we DON’T agree, I was afraid to suggest. You might also like the trilogy by Libba Bray I’ve mentioned in my blog. Different, but with some of the same tensions, only set at a girls school in pre-20th century England.