it's all about romance

Maybe I got carried away in my images downloading craze for the paladin Amv, but i couldn't leave this picture out and about on the web without getting a copy for my archive. I do enjoy reading a good story but for some reasons I find visual arts much more powerful in conveying certain feelings. It may be just a matter of timing.If the artist was to create this very scene in a novel It could have taken at least a whole to describe this moment including as much details as portrayed here. The picture offers you the same result in a glance. And I'd say that it makes more of an impact. Of course you can indulge in studying the details but that always happen in a second moment, just like when you re-read a sentence trying to unveil a new meaning to it.

The painting is called The Black Brunswicker and is a work by John E Millais. I like how the conflict between thr two character is enhanced by the color of their clothes. The man uniform is entirely black and the woman is dressed in white. A striking contrast which reflect the complete opposite state of mind of the two. The man is embracing his ideal of duty and responsibility. His posture is firm as much as his intention to leave. The hand is holding the door and his leg is about to take his step. His foot though is still attached to the ground as he hesitates one more moment to look at her for one last time. The woman's action, on the contrary, is much more emotional. She is literally throwing herself at him to push him away from the door. One hand is on the door's handle in an attempt to close the door ( and the world) behind her. The other is placed on his chest gently trying to stop his movement. In doing so i don't know if she is trying to protect him or seeking protection in him. The body language tells me that is more likely the second option. The woman cannot even look at him but they are both desperate for a physical contact ( see how his knee mirrors the position of her hand ) they are aware this may be the last time they can touch each other.
It's true that the soldier is trying to leave but his eyes are completely focused on her. I expect her to timidly raise her look and give in to the passion of their last kiss.