The Hundredth Dove by Jane Yolen
The American author
Jane Yolen, who was born in 1939, is the author of the short story The
Hundredth Dove. She includes romance in here since it matches the plot
and some of the traits and symbolism. The plot of a romance novel always begins
with a tiny conflict: Hugh must catch 100 doves in just five days for the
King's royal wedding. The problem is then resolved as a result of his deeds,
and the story concludes pleasantly, as most romances do. Each one ends with a
metaphor for life; in this case, it was the fact that Hugh finished the task
and is no longer required to hunt birds for the king's meal.
Several of the features are inappropriate for this
story, even though the main plot thread is. However, this brief story is
utterly implausible because, among other things, someone can't catch 100 doves in just five days. The plot is mostly centered on
romance, which is symbolized by a dove. The story also seems
to be about the transition from winter to summer, which is a popular symbol for
romantic relationships. While some of the traits and symbolism suggest a
romance plot and story, the ones that do make it clear are the ones that fit,
and the storyline also almost perfectly matches a relationship with the
symbolism and traits that suggest a romance plot.