Another theme is the struggle against society. The lovers may face opposition from their families or society at large due to differences in class, race or other factors. For example, in many classic bitter love stories, a poor man may love a rich woman and society would frown upon such a union. This external pressure adds to the bitterness of the love. Moreover, the theme of lost opportunities is also prevalent. Characters may miss chances to be together because of misunderstandings or bad timing. This can create a sense of regret and sorrow that is characteristic of bitter love.
One common theme is unrequited love. Often in these novels, one character loves another who does not fully return the feelings, which leads to a great deal of emotional pain.
The theme of self - sacrifice is also common. One or both of the lovers may sacrifice their own happiness, desires or even their lives for the sake of the other. This self - less act, while noble in some ways, often results in a bitter end as it may not lead to the expected outcome. For instance, a character might give up a relationship to protect the other from some harm, but in the end, both are left with a sense of loss and pain.
Chapter 471, "This is What Happens When You Abandon Sister Li!", is the clearest early answer because it turns Jiang Yan's situation into a concrete plot event. The chapter turns that into something concrete by moving from Seeing the thick wooden stakes Jiang Li had brought down, Yu Li...
Chapter 430, "I Quit", is the clearest early answer because it turns Director Zheng's situation into a concrete plot event. It opens with Hey, do we join a team that's short on members, or do we form our... and closes on You still have time to quit." "Who said I was quitting?" Jiang Li....
Chapter 432, "Return to the Homeland!", is the clearest early answer because it pushes Miss Jiang into a new phase or setting. The chapter gives readers a real answer by opening on Jiang Li had also received the updated rankings. and ending on He looked at the owner with a hint of surprise..
Chapter 523, "Are the Researchers Sweating Profusely Now?", is the clearest early answer because it turns Are's situation into a concrete plot event. The chapter gives readers a real answer by opening on This is supposed to be a life-saving 'peace charm' tailored for the...
Chapter 496, "Hot Pot Tonight!", is the clearest early answer because it turns President Shang's situation into a concrete plot event.
Chapter 395, "She's Not Trying to Use Under-the-Table Tactics, Is She?", is the clearest early answer because it turns Table Tactics's situation into a concrete plot event.
Chapter 753, "Final Judgment", is the clearest early answer because it turns Shu Yan's situation into a concrete plot event. The chapter turns that into something concrete by moving from In the decade she had been with Fang Wenzhe, Shu Yan never thought...
Chapter 488, "You Must Be the Captain Then!", is the clearest early answer because it turns Guan Xiong's situation into a concrete plot event. The chapter gives readers a real answer by opening on Lose face?" Nina's voice rose sharply, "We're already at a dead end,...
Chapter 549, "Is This How You Be a Brother?", is the clearest early answer because it turns Jiang Li's situation into a concrete plot event. The chapter turns that into something concrete by moving from Jiang Li led her group deeper into the island.
Chapter 646, "This person deserves a slap in the face!", is the clearest early answer because it turns Bai Lu's situation into a concrete plot event. It opens with Jiang Yan: "....." Bloody green tea, get lost! and closes on You won't be at a disadvantage." Zhao Lang's lips curled up a bit,....