Rather unexpectedly, the subject of physical attraction was recently discussed on a site primarily focused on video-game lifestyle and culture.

From Tim at Ctrl+Alt+Delete (emphasis mine):

I feel that for intimate relationships, that physical chemistry, that spark, is needed at the beginning of the relationship. Of course in the long term, personality is what matters most. But I think it’s ignorant to discount the importance of mutual physical attraction, to say that “looks don’t matter”.

Saying that “looks matter” gets you evil glances. People calling you shallow. It’s not saying that a certain type of look is all that matters. It’s not the same as saying “everyone has to look like a super model”. Just that two people’s definitions of attraction need to mesh.

Tim was talking about the reaction to the story arc that he has given one of his comic characters, Lucas. Lucas has been single for a while and decides to use the Internet for dating. Unbeknown to him, another character decides to play a prank on him by setting him up on a date with a plus-size woman.

The strips preceding Tim’s post are the following. Read them in the sequence presented here to get the proper flow.

Excuse Robbery
Between the Lines
Presto Change-O
Why Not

The story is still being played out and I’m really enjoying it. In case you haven’t noticed, I love reading and talking about the dynamics of man-woman relationships.

A woman's eye
(Image * After via everystockphoto)

Echoing Tim’s sentiments above, I’ve said on a few occasions that everyone has physical preferences when it comes to romantic relationships. These preferences include hair, height, body shape, and even skin colour. To get indignant at the necessity of physical attraction would be hypocritical – all of us have preferences about how our ideal mate should look like.

Whether or not these preferences are fulfilled is another matter, and is a source of much angst. ;)

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