The Twilight Saga's Affect on Popular Culture

Ever since the release of the first novel Twilight in 2005, the series has gained phenomenal success worldwide. Originally read by young adults the story quickly garnered success amongst women the world over. As of november 2009 the books had sold in excess of 85 million copies worldwide with translations into at least 38 languages.

So what is the message in the saga? According to Stephenie Meyer, the Twilight Saga is about life, not death, it's about love, not lust. The biggest message by far in the series though would have to be free will. The freedom to choose where one's life path will lead. The vampires make the choice to not endanger human life by abstaining from human blood. Bella makes the choice of staying eternally with her vampire love. Perhaps the most interesting part of Twilight however is the monster becomes the protector, the monster who was never really a monster at all but only a self perceived one.

Then there is the influence on current trends. Twilight fasion, people wanting to capture the physical beauty of the vampires from the novels. There isn't only the superficial influence however. There has been a decided rise in the expectations of women in regards to men and relationships. There is just something about a man who treats a woman with respect and courtesy whilst actually being what's considered manly.

So has the Twilight Saga changed the view of pop culture as we know it. The answer? Unconditionally and irrevocably.