One of the most alluring aspects of Phantom, whether it be the Book, the Movies, the Musical. . . is the 'love triangle.' Largely I think that's because most of us have been involved in situations that resemble, at base, what we see unfolding between Erik, Christine, and Raoul. Maybe we haven't been in an ACTUAL love triangle, but we've all probably been Erik, been Christine, and Raoul at some point in our lives. . . or will be. Do you know what I mean?
In preparation for writing my new fanfiction, I've had to sit down at my computer and write down any of the dynamics I've noticed between Erik/Christine, Christine/Raoul. To know more and get down to the core of the relationships, you have to ask questions and consider the possibilities. (Then again, I believe that what *YOU* personally see in the relationships is always going to be different than what anyone else sees or understands, because you are a unique person with your own life experiences and your own unique way of seeing the world and interpreting things).
These relationships, just like any relationship in real life, are very complicated because there are so many factors that one might consider.
Different versions of Phantom will emphasize different kinds of relatonships- so you are left to make your deductions using your personal interpretations based off of your favourite version, or many versions.
Personally, I take my views on the relationships from Leroux/Kay/ALW- perhaps from Kay above all because she gives the most history about Erik and goes into detail about his life and personality.
What I see, personally, is complicated. Lol. Very complicated. And lengthy.
I want to post what I wrote in my fanfiction outlining. That is at home, so I'll come back and post later, if that's alright.
Until then...
smile
