On Spark Theory — Cheaters Edition

I never knew that our romance had ended until you poisoned my food
And I thought it was a lark when you kicked me in the park but now I think it was rude
I never knew that you and I were finished until that bottle hit my head
Though I tried to be aloof when you pushed me off the roof, I feel our romance is dead

– “Say That We’re Sweethearts Again” by Earl K. Brent

At this point, it’s so cliché, we all know the words:

__ had been having an affair with a young 20-something.  __ said he just didn’t feel The Spark any more.

(where “The Spark” = “like he was getting as much attention as he used to, and resented the implication that he had to work at the relationship because it turns out it wasn’t all about him and his needs alone”)

On Spark Theory — Arranged Marriage Edition

I have always liked the sound of the phrase “a marriage has been arranged”…I prefer the idea of arrangement to that other statement that marriages are made in Heaven. — Flora Poste, Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbons

Spark Theory [which posits that relationships without The Spark of enough Spark are doomed] completely ignores arranged marriages, which are often strong and lasting relationships, albeit less common these days.  My parents knew each other for under a week before wedding and have been married for 38 years, most of them happy.

On Spark Theory — Ex Edition

I want a girl who will laugh for no one else
When I’m away she puts her makeup on the shelf
When I’m away she never leaves the house
I want a girl who laughs for no one else

– “No One Else” by Weezer

“The Spark” and “connection” are two of the most common terms used when discussing dating and relationships. [They also remind me of this terrible early episode of Angel — Joss had no script credit and the music is especially offensive].