Men demand to be pampered on Valentine’s
VALENTINE’S Day, a day traditionally associated with expressing affection towards loved ones, takes on a unique twist during a leap year, an event that only occurs once every four years.
This rare alignment of dates introduces a fascinating shift in gift-giving dynamics, particularly between men and women.
Unfortunately, yet fortunately for some, depending on where one is looking at, 2024 is a leap year and they say on this particular Valentine’s Day, which falls on Wednesday, February 14, men will be receiving gifts from their loved ones, although of course women will still expect some bit of pampering.
In previous leap years, women presented their loved ones with gifts like pairs of socks, watches and toiletries.
However, men from across the globe are voicing their desire for more substantial gifts and Mutare men are not an exception.
The PlayStation 5 (PS5) has emerged as a popular choice among these requests.
However, those interviewed said they don’t mean it literally. The men are simply saying they need something valuable.
This desire is not confined to hushed whispers or private conversations.
Instead, men are boldly declaring their wish for a PS5 on various platforms, from social media to workplaces and public transport.
This request has sparked a wave of humorous memes and social commentary.
The PS5, a highly sought-after gaming console, is renowned for its advanced features and superior gaming experience.
The Manica Post on Tuesday took to the streets of Mutare to talk to both men and women on their Valentine’s Day gift choices, and it emerged that the wish for the PS5 or something equally valuable has not gone unnoticed and uncontested by the fairer sex, although they feel that the price for the gadget is a bit exorbitant. The PS5 costs roughly US$500. Most women interviewed said this year they will be focusing on other romantic ways to show their better halves that they love them.
This includes taking them out for a Valentine’s Day dinner, buying less expensive gifts as well as spending more time together.
Ms Charlene Madzime of Bordervale suburb said she is looking forward to the day as she has an exciting evening lined up for the man of her heart.
“I will be taking him out for dinner and lighten it up with some more romantic moments afterwards and a couple of gifts. We are in a serious relationship so he deserves to be spoilt,” said Ms Madzime.
She also said she has planned a Valentine’s Day trip which they will enjoy later on this month.
However, some women expressed reservations on purchasing expensive and ‘useless’ gifts for their beloveds.
They argued that it is an unwise decision to spend time and money on a gaming console that will distract their partners from paying attention to them.
“I love my husband, but this whole frenzy about them demanding a PS5 is just social media madness. I will not buy such kind of a gift because it means he will end up ignoring me while concentrating on the PlayStation with the kids.
“I would rather buy him tyres for his car or something else meaningful that will benefit the whole family. Maybe if we were still courting, buying him a PlayStation would make sense,” said a Dangamvura woman who requested anonymity.
Mr James Zindimo of Yeovil suburb red flagged gifts like socks or underwear, saying such items will show that his partner does not value him much.
“When I say I want a PS5, I don’t mean it literally. I am saying I need something valuable instead of just a pair of socks or a box of toiletries. It is unfair that women have been buying us cheap stuff for years, but expect expensive gifts from us. The practice of giving underwear or socks as Valentine’s Day gifts is a big no to me,” he said.
Mr Farai Mashava said women should be creative and come up with intriguing gifts for their spouses.
“If you are planning on socks and underwear, it will be better not to receive anything from our loved ones. Spending quality time with our loved ones is all that we are asking for if there are no resources to spoil us,” he said.