Fifty One

Chick lit is popularly classified as books that appeal only and exclusively to women. Whenever I feel like the world doesn't understand me my best friend says go watch a chick lit movie or pick up a chick lit book. As expected they do have the desired effect.

For those unfamiliar with the effect that chick lit has let me just advise you Cinderella  was never meant to be read aloud to boys...that was and still remains one of the first chick literature books ever written. Naturally after hearing it read 5-year old girls believe that all is right with the world and one day they too will meet their price charming who will sweep them away from the ugly-step-mother and step-sister rat-hole of a life. For a female oriented book to have the desired calming effect it has to have a prince charming; the latest Irish and English authoress such as Marian Keyes and Jane Green, the hero is a charming, moderately successful, attractive man. But these element asides the man has to be unaware of the heroine and her capabilities. Often the lack of the female characters will-power and action to capture the heroes attention (unless albeit Cinderella she gets a makeover) can drive the reader insane and - want to drag her by the forelock and give her a lecture on feminism - it is the very thing that moves the book forward.

Now you would be wondering how such lack of feminist ideals can cheer a girl up? well for one in the book (if not in real life) things seem to fall into place and our mildly-sexy, always-adored (even infuriatingly) leading lady gets her man, revenge on any step-mother like characters in her life and possible indication of a bright future. This sends a rather satisfying glow through the reader (chick lit enthusiasts') mind. Hence creating a soft bubble of happiness. If you think its momentary, think again, it can be very lasting just like a good cup of coffee or talking about 'nothing' with a friend.