THE LIBRARY
What is a Love Triangle? A Geometry Lesson by me
I’m not a math teacher, so please bear with me.
The Love “V”
A love triangle is perhaps the most utilized and recognizable literary trope around. The trope is compelling because you have two people competing for the same person’s heart, putting this person in a tough position. After endless bouts of drama and jealousy, the main character must pick the person they wish to be with. But who said that they had to pick just one?
I’ve seen many love triangles look more like a “V.” You have a central point connecting the other two points. There is usually no link or feelings between the two people who are pining for the love interest. Examples of this would be media like Twilight, The Mortal Instruments series, and The Vampire Diaries.
Usually, people who root for one lover are ecstatic that they end up with the main character, and the others who preferred the second choice are left with absolute crumbs.
Why must these hard decisions be made? Why must one party have to lose for the other one to win? It seems quite selfish if you ask me (which nobody did, but I’m going to say it anyway).
