When it comes to Valentine’s Day gifts, men usually end up giving one of six things, the royal sextet, we might say. While men often fool themselves into believing these presents are thoughtful, even romantic, here is what they really say.
Red roses
What you think they say: Baby, I’m a true romantic at heart.
What they really say: I’d forgotten it was even Valentine’s Day until I saw these at the petrol station on the way home.
Gift basket of random things like facial cream and bath salts
What you think they say: Darling, you deserve an evening with these luxurious personal care items.
What they really say: Sephora was offering 25 percent off.
Chocolates
What you think they say: Enjoy these delicacies as they melt in your mouth and coat your tongue with delicious, rich chocolate.
What they really say: I like chocolate, and I’m going to end up eating most of these.
Perfume
What you think it says: You are a rare, exotic flower, and you should smell like one.
What it really says: I have no idea what sort of perfume you wear or even like, so I got this one because the bottle is pretty.
Jewellery
What you think it says: I am a man of great means and I spare no expenses for my beloved.
What it really says: Curious, I never even noticed that your ears aren’t pierced.
Something clever like a book or framed photo
What you think it says: I’m highly attuned to your hobbies and interests.
What it really says: I had a 20-euro and 50-euro note in my wallet, and I didn’t want to break the fifty.