Buzz
In a recent edition of the Archie spin-off Jughead, the main character unexpectedly develops feelings for a girl, despite being canonically asexual. Confused and surprised, Jughead only knows her as someone dressed in a giant cheeseburger costume. His friend Betty encourages him to take a respectful approach, offering insightful advice despite her own romantic struggles.
This advice might seem as conflicting as the tips Lumière and Mrs. Potts gave the Beast about wooing Belle. However, as Betty points out, romance is inherently complex.
One of Betty’s lines stands out so much that writer Ryan North, known for annotating his comics, highlights it at the bottom of the page: “Praise people for their actions, not their inherent traits.”
As North emphasizes, this is a powerful romance tip. While not the sole criterion for a good compliment, it’s an excellent starting point, especially with new acquaintances. Complimenting someone’s choices demonstrates attentiveness, often leading to engaging conversations and meaningful connections.
Praising someone for their physical traits, like their body or voice, or for something they didn’t choose, can come across as lazy and inattentive. It might even touch on insecurities they already have. Avoid commenting on height, weight, or unique features early on. Save such remarks for when they’re more comfortable with you and know you appreciate their decisions.
Betty isn’t suggesting you can’t admire your partner’s appearance. She’s simply pointing out that starting a conversation with a stranger by saying, “Nice legs,” isn’t ideal—especially since they’ve likely heard it repeatedly.
Let’s be honest, women often face the majority of superficial compliments because men have historically been careless and entitled. It’s time to stop being thoughtless, men! Take a page from Jughead Jones’s book and do better.
