Analysis of Romance in Delia Owens' Where The Crawdads Sing

This study examines how romance is presented in the novel Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. As romance is about love, the research problem formulation is divided into two: (1) How do Tate and Kya express their love for each other, and (2) How does love affect the relationship between Tate and Kya? The researcher used qualitative methods in this study to collect and analyze all data about the topics discussed. After obtaining the required data, the researcher analyzed it using the new criticism theory, which focuses on the elements within the novel itself. The results of this study show that romance in the novel Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens is presented by how the characters Tate and Kya express love for each other and the love that impacts their relationship. Tate and Kya expresses their love for each other by showing mutual care, understanding, respect, and a sense of mutual responsibility. The love they have then affects the relationship between them. After realizing they love each other, Tate and Kya become lovers. Both of them also managed to face problems that had worsened their relationship. In the end, Tate and Kya's relationship lasted for a long time