Sense and Sensibility: Fiction. Non-Fiction. Fantasy!

Found tucked in Nina’s diary: carbon copy of a letter to Millie (1959)

The French House, London
February 20th, 1959

Dear Millie,

Lizzy asked me to read Sense and Sensibility, and we finally got to talk about it yesterday over drinks at The French House (she was incognito, of course behind dark glasses and a scarf). Our conversation turned surprisingly intense. We didn’t argue, but let’s say we came close. Lizzy seems to think it’s a love story. I’m not so sure. Not a straightforward one, anyway... not in my book.

Sense and Sensibility isn't just a romance novel. When things start feeling a little too real, Jane Austen throws in just enough fantasy to keep us hopeful. That’s what makes this book so special... it blends fiction, non-fiction, and fantasy, with just a dusting of romance.

And here is how: The Dashwood sisters are always invited somewhere. Parties, games, endless social plans. They meet new people all the time. Let’s be honest: that part is pure fiction. Even getting invited for a coffee these days feels like a miracle.

They get to spend weeks in London for free, gossiping, shopping and bossing around the valet. Well, in my world, that's absolute fantasy.

Elinor Dashwood is always composed, cool as a cucumber. No matter what's thrown at her. Shock after shock. She's the queen of self-control. I don’t personally know anyone like that. This is total fiction.

Elinor's sister, Marianne, on the other hand... that's relatable. She can barely hide her feelings, cries endlessly, sinks into depression and attracts pity and false empathy. Of course, that's non-fiction.

The magnetic bookmark in the photo is part of Nina's collection! You can find it in my shop.

Marianne's love interest, the brutally disappointing Willoughby, is absolutely non-fiction. Anyone who has lived through a disappointing Valentine’s Day knows what I mean.

And then there's the waiting game. Women waiting to be noticed, liked, acknowledged, chosen. Then, if they are lucky, proposed to. That must have been exhausting. Hate to break it to you, but that one is non-fiction.

And finally, the biggest fantasy of them all... Colonel Brandon. No explanation needed.

Just read the book... then tell me what you think.

Love,

Nina

PS: is this life change making me too cynical, or was I always suspiscious of love stories?