The “American” Way of Romance

The following exchange took place on Craigslist, the New York Community message board:

The Post

“What am I doing wrong ? I’m tired of beating around the bush. I’m a beautiful (spectacularly beautiful) 25-year-old girl. I’m articulate and classy …

I’m not from New York. I’m looking to get married to a guy who makes at least half a million a year. I know how that sounds, but keep in mind that a million a year is middle class in New York City, so I don’t think I’m over-reaching at all. Are there any guys who make 500K or more on this board ? Any wives ? Could you send me some tips ?
I dated a businessman who made around 200-250K. But that’s where I seem to hit a roadblock. $250,000 won’t get me to Central Park West. I know a woman in my yoga class who was married to an investment banker and lives in Tribeca. She’s not as pretty as I am, nor is she a great genius. So what is she doing right ? Here are my questions specifically:

• Where do you single rich men hang out ? Give me specifics – bars, restaurants, gyms.
• What are you looking for in a mate ?
• Is there an age range I should be targeting ?
• Why are some of the women living lavish lifestyles on the Upper East Side so plain ? What’s the story there ?
• Lawyers, investment bankers, doctors. How much do those guys really make ? And where do the hedge fund guys hang out ?
• How do you rich guys decide on marriage vs just a girlfriend ? I am looking for MARRIAGE ONLY.”

The Response
(from an Investment Banker)

“I qualify as a guy who fits your bill – I make more than $500K per year. Here’s how I see it:
Your offer is a plain and simple crappy business deal. What you suggest is a simple trade: you bring your looks to the party and I bring my money. Fine. Simple. But here’s the rub, your looks will fade and my money will likely continue into perpetuity – in fact, it is very likely that my income will increase, but it is an absolute certainty that you won’t be getting any more beautiful ! So, in economic terms, you are a depreciating asset. In Wall Street terms, we’d call you a trading position – not a buy and hold. It doesn’t make good business sense to ‘buy you’ (which is what you’re asking) – so I’d rather lease.
The deal that makes sense for me is dating, not marriage.”

Sources

“The Independent on Sunday”, 14 OCTOBER 2007