In "Songs of the Humpback Whale" by Jodi Picoult, a student reflects on Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" with a practical perspective. She deems Romeo a coward for not simply eloping with Juliet instead of succumbing to pride and societal pressures. Her comment highlights a modern viewpoint that contrasts sharply with the romantic notions typically associated with the story.

The student’s dismissal of the poetic and tragic elements of the play suggests a pragmatic mindset that prioritizes real-life decisions over literary ideals. This exchange with her teacher emphasizes the divide between dramatic narratives and the realities people face today, suggesting that personal choices often overshadow grand romantic gestures in everyday life.