Despite being the shortest month of the year, February is notable for a few reasons. It begins the long crescendo of winter, the Super Bowl arrives, Black History Month is recognized, and a groundhog ascends to make meteorological predictions based on the presence of a shadow. But among all, it’s known for Valentine’s Day, allegedly the most romantic day of the year. It’s a time when people celebrate love to help get us through the bitter winter and finally accept that they will not be completing their New Year’s resolutions. In celebration of the season, the staff of The Pilot have compiled some of their favorite books, movies, and songs that remind them of love.
Books
The Symposium by Plato
A complicated Socratic dialogue about love, delivered via speeches from men discussing all different aspects of it around a table. But the fascination that comes from watching all these men trying to outwit each other, takes on the force that connects us all. – Leo Zhong
Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
A classic tale of star crossed lovers on an endless tirade of bad decisions that gets everyone killed. A cautious reminder of how fickle and unhinged young love can be. – Kaelyn Roundtree
Normal People by Sally Rooney
At what point do the right people at the wrong time or the wrong place become the wrong people for each other? Normal People examines class, power, and how they can fracture the relationships we hold closest to us. – Elizabeth Dugan
Better Than The Movies by Lynn Painter
An all too familiar tale about being caught up in romcoms and learning that life can be better than the movie. A true tale about reality and finding the life that was meant for you all along. – Vida Greyser
The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
A young adult novel about a girl who must compete in order to earn the inheritance left to her. The mystery is intertwined with an engaging love story that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. – Ashley Lin
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
The complexities of a marriage on the rocks and the underbelly below every seemingly happy couple. The book is shocking and deceptive to the point where you’ll fall in love. – Aayan Ibrahim
The Novel by Nawal El Saadawi
In The Novel, love consistently defies social status and feelings of personal belonging, making space for the protagonist in the hearts of those around her. It explores the powerful and corruptive nature of writing, characterizing it as the ultimate love for those dedicated to its pursuit. – Sara Elazab
Movies
The Notebook, directed by Nick Cassavetes
A story about a couple falling in love twice – while they were young, and when they’re old. It’s hard not to admire the level of chemistry between the two in this movie. – Leo Zhong, Ashley Lin
La La Land, directed by Damien Chazelle
One thing’s for certain – this movie is about love. It may not be perfect, it may not be easy, it may not even be meant to last, but it’s about the love people have for each other set against the lights of Hollywood. – Kaelyn Roundtree
When Harry Met Sally, directed by Rob Reiner
The movie that inspired plenty of imitators who never could come quite close. A perfect watch for when you want to get nice and comfortable by the fireplace. – Elizabeth Dugan
Pretty Woman, directed by Garry Marshall
An iconic flick that boosted Julia Roberts to worldwide superstardom with some hilarious moments. Plus, it has a great soundtrack to boot. – Vida Greyser
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, directed by Michel Gondry
It’s about the worst kind of love – the kind that you just can’t forget about and let go of no matter how hard you try. Great performances with some really emotional moments that’ll have you reaching for some tissues. – Aayan Ibrahim
Songs
“I’m Just Ken,” by Ryan Gosling
The most powerful love of all is self love. There is nothing more heartwarming than that. – Kaelyn Roundtree
“This Must Be The Place (Naive Melody),” by Talking Heads
A simple yet beautiful song about how simple yet beautiful love can be. The sincere conviction that can be heard in the track accidentally makes it one of the most touching love songs ever. – Elizabeth Dugan
“Careless Whisper,” by George Michael
A complicated song, nevertheless is the anthem for romance with the most iconic saxophone solo ever. It’s simply an unforgettable tune meant for any occasion, from taking over the dancefloor to crying on your bathroom floor. – Vida Greyser
“love,” by wave to earth
A chill ballad that encapsulates that larger than life feeling being in love gets you. Laced with the tint of melancholy over a dreamy indie instrumental. – Ashley Lin
“Friday I’m In Love,” by The Cure
Unadulterated in its portrayal of love, Robert Smith manages to craft a love song without a hint of the doom and gloom the Cure are known for. It’s upbeat, catchy, and makes every day feel like Friday. – Aayan Ibrahim
“You’re Beautiful,” by James Blunt
A hauntingly beautiful record that has as much pain in its words as it does love. A 2000s classic that is instantly recognizable. – Sara Elazab
