Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Does Romantic Love Exist?

 

“It's philosophically helpful and uplifting to remember that romantic love is a myth and quite dangerous. 


We really do have to take it with a massive pinch of salt. 


To think sensibly about love and the way it can grow is essential,” stated Emma Thompson*, adding,


“Long-term relationships are hugely difficult and complicated. 


If anyone thinks that happy ever after has a place in our lives, forget it.”




Should we forget about happily ever after?


What is romantic love?


Does it exist?


If it exists, must we take it with a massive pinch of salt?




It depends.  


Love is a two way street.  


Therefore, much of that kind of love also depends upon your romantic partner.  


If he or she does not have one ounce of romantic sensibility, can there be a romance?  


And if one does not want to be in a relationship with oneself, would you not only have to know your partner and self, but also know their level of commitment to the relationship?


And what happens when that person does not even know who they are or what they want from the relationship and out of life?


What happens when you do not know who you are or what you want?


Would it not also depend upon compatibility? 


It would be kind of hard to jam a square peg into a round hole or too small minded of a hole.  


Boy, this is getting hugely difficult and complicated and we haven't even addressed what is essential; 


How do we "think sensibly about love and the way it can grow"?





*Emma Thompson quote, Radio Times podcast 



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