Are Younger Generations Less Romantic?

by Anastasiia Savina

Image by AdelinaZw from Pixabay

Today is Valentine’s Day, and conversations about romance reveal how differently it is understood across generations. While some still value traditional gestures, others are reshaping what the day means to them.

Chloe Adams, 22, says she plans to spend the with her friends, rather than on a date – carrying on with the relatively new tradition of “Galentine’s Day”.

“I’ll probably go out, have a drink, maybe go to a club,” she said. “Most guys my age aren’t that romantic anyway. I think a lot of people are more focused on having fun than building something serious.”

Holloway Road, “Loving Hut” – romance framed by routine. Photo by Anastasiia Savina

For Chloe, Valentine’s Day is less about long-term commitment and more about enjoying the moment. She admits she doesn’t feel disappointed about being single.

“It’s just another night out. There’s no pressure.”

Marriage and a gift

Daniel Harris, 35, has a different perspective. Married for two years, he has already planned a dinner and bought his wife a pair of Apple headphones she had mentioned wanting months ago.

“I try to listen to the little things she says,” he explained. When asked what he expects in return, he shook his head.

“Nothing. I don’t need anything. Making her happy is enough.” For Daniel, romance is about consistency and attention rather than dramatic surprises.

Brian Taylor, 71, reflects on Valentine’s Day with more experience behind him. He admits he was quite reserved when he was younger and sometimes regrets not being more open.

“I was shy and didn’t always say what I felt,” he said. “Looking back, I think I missed opportunities.” Now in a relationship, he plans to spend the evening quietly at home. He believes younger generations face new challenges.

“People talk through screens now,” he observed. “It’s easier to send a message than to have a real conversation.”

His advice is simple: “Don’t let shyness stop you. Make connections while you can.”

Less romantic – or more practical?

So are younger generations less romantic or simply romantic in different ways?

While traditions may shift, the desire for connection appears to remain, even if it looks different from one age group to another.

In fact, some companies are capitalising on a new idea: Valentine’s for the angry.

“Why communicate your feelings when you can destroy a microwave with a baseball bat? London rage rooms let you pay to smash plates, TVs and random office equipment in a safe environment. It’s therapeutic and far more satisfying than sending a risky text to someone you shouldn’t,” said an article about unconventional Valentine’s Day offerings in The Tab.  

“Head to Breakout London in Camden or Finsbury Park for large, well-supervised rooms with plenty of items to smash. Alternatively, Rage Studio London hosts smaller, private rooms ideal of you want a more intimate chaos session.”

The paper mentions other unusual VD dates, such as trampolining, water rafting,  visiting a casino or ghost tour, or a late-night museum date. The most fun, however, is perhaps the idea of visiting a “worst-rated restaurant” to leave an unfavourable review of your own.

“Instead of competing for a table at somewhere romantic, do the opposite: deliberately book a restaurant with questionable reviews,” it says. “You’ll leave with a memorable story far more interesting than another predictable dinner where everyone is Instagramming their food.” 

Bon appetit!