Valentine’s Day, the celebration of romance and love, is in large part shaped by popular culture. From classic films to classic love songs, the media has made it a profound contribution to February 14 the way we think or celebrate it.

Hollywood’s Romantic Blueprint

Movies have been long providing a material for Valentine’s Day tradition, a visual metaphor of love expansive, moving, and grand. Movies such as The Notebook or When Harry Met Sally have forever made their marks on our memory, because of their iconic scenes, leading others to replicate the act in real life, such as a romantic surprise proposal or a candlelit dinner. Romantic comedies, in particular, often reinforce the idea that love conquers all, with dramatic reunions, heartfelt confessions, and perfect endings that many aspire to recreate.

Music: The Soundtrack of Love

Music is another powerful force shaping Valentine’s Day. Songs such as Whitney Houston’s I Will Always Love You or John Legend’s All of Me have transcended love and devotion, frequently appearing on Valentine’s day playlists. These tunes have resonation with basic emotions that evoke memories of the beauty and richness of love.

Television and Advertising

Television and advertising have cemented Valentine’s Day traditions further. Sitcoms such as Friends and Parks and Recreation have a comical approach to the holiday and commercials for chocolates, flowers, and jewelry stress the meaning of the “ideal” present. Examples of captivating slogans such as “Every kiss begins with Kay” are memory triggers that establish a perception of the need to communicate affection by giving material expressions, which perpetuates the holiday’s commercialism.

Pop culture has set our viewing on Valentine’s Day ideals, filled with hopes and pressure. Whether watching a romantic comedy, listening to love songs, or creating your own traditions, the holiday remains a celebration of connection and emotion, however you choose to express it.