Arranged marriages, which are organized by family members and friends of the bride or groom, are common in different parts of the world due to cultural traditions. One motive behind their prevalence is the ban on marriages between White and Japanese individuals in certain US states. Notably, these arranged unions can be arranged at any point in life, even during childhood.
Picture brides, which are a type of arranged marriages, involve couples who do not meet until after they are married. Instead, they exchange pictures and letters prior to their marriage. Typically, this type of arrangement occurs between a man in America and a woman in Japan. This opportunity allows the woman to travel to America, carrying nothing but a picture in her hand. There are several stories surrounding this practice, with one particular story called “picture pride”. It is believed that arranged marriages are viewed as more prestigious because the couple has the chance to actually see each other and possibly have conversations before tying the knot.
In Picture Brides, it is challenging to determine if the couple’s marriage will be happy and successful since they cannot see each other face to face. Personally, I do not believe in the concept of picture brides and arranged marriages. I think that many of these marriages may not work out romantically. However, they do have certain advantages over regular marriages. One advantage is that you don’t need your parents’ approval before getting married because they are the ones who select your partner, ensuring their full support.
One aspect is that arranged marriages between strangers can turn into incredibly romantic relationships. However, some arranged marriages are solely for business reasons. Personally, I find picture brides to be the most peculiar. On one hand, you never meet your future spouse in person before the marriage. Additionally, the pictures and letters may not truly represent the person. Nonetheless, it can be a thrilling and adventurous experience.
Picture brides and online dating have similarities in terms of exchanging digital photos and emails, although picture brides are considered safer. Traditional marriages have their own advantages and disadvantages. Firstly, they offer freedom of choice, allowing individuals to select partners from a diverse range. Secondly, it is possible to make alternative choices without disappointing many people. Thirdly, there is the flexibility to spend as much time as desired with the potential spouse and marry at the most suitable time, although thorough preparation and time investment are still required.
In conclusion, the marriage initially originated from pure love and devotion, indicating a strong desire to marry the individual. Personally, I favor traditional marriages as they allow for greater freedom of choice compared to arranged marriages or picture brides. This preference arises from the fact that certain Japanese immigrants in America during the early sass’s lacked the freedom of choice due to the prohibition of Japanese marriages with whites, limitations on Asian immigration, the harsh realities of racism in American society, and the practice of arranged marriages.
