Why do we enjoy reading about suffering so much?

[cpt_raina]

I was just thinking about how much I enjoy reading fanfics in which Lee Adama suffers every sort of emotional (and sometimes physical) pain imagineable, and that got me thinking about why we enjoy reading about suffering so much. Is it tragic catharsis? This is the best definition I could find

Comments

[hockeyvaughnfan]

For me it depends what mood I'm in. There are times when I do find it cathartic when I read angst, but most of the time the reason I like to read it and enjoy it so much is that you tend to get more drama etc and a generally better story from angsty stories (at least that's the case with the ones that are well written).

I'll probably be back later with some more things to say once I've had a chance to have a think about this...great topic though and thanks for posting the question!

[fairnymph]

For me, I'd have to say it's about the intensity of emotion angst evokes, and how it makes moments of truth and love that much more powerful in contrast. I've always been a person of emotional extremes, either flying high or in the depths of my own personal hell. But even the latter is better than numbness or mediocrity. Angst provides depth in characters just as it does in life. And a small moment of bliss shines all the brigther in the face of pain and suffering.

why angst?

[anonymous]

I like your theory. Personally I find angst to be more realistic. The most romantic and loving moments in life I find are the ones that are simple and natural. Often that doesn't translate well into fiction and especially fan fic. It may just be me but when Lee or Kara call each other "baby" in fan fic it just doesn't work for me--in a big way.
jus' my two cents
rynidgrl
rynid@aol.com

[nancy777ca]

I would suggest that Lee-angst fics work because in my opinion Jamie's got an angsty face, there just a sweetness to his features that reduce otherwise normal women to wibbling messes of goo. When those features are contorted in pain or sadness it speaks to the female nature to nurture.....kiss his boo boo's and make him all better, if you will. (winks)
It all started with poor angsty Archie. You just wanted to gather him up in your arms and make all the hurt go away. Angst fics allow us to do that, vicariously.

[cpt_raina]

When those features are contorted in pain or sadness it speaks to the female nature to nurture.....kiss his boo boo's and make him all better, if you will.
I don't wanna kiss his boo boo's all better... I just wanna make him suffer more!!!

*is a total sadist*
as if you couldn't tell already...

make him suffer

[nancy777ca]

I just want to make him suffer more--

LOL great line.
Conjurs up images of slap 'n tickle heavy on the slap. Or biting.
rynidgrl