What Is Love and How Can Writers Best Define It?

Love has been a source of inspiration for many artists throughout history. From songs and poems to books and movies, it’s a theme that has captivated the imagination of people from all walks of life. But what is love exactly? And how can writers best portray it in their stories?

For some, it’s a feeling of yearning and desire that comes with a sense of fulfillment. Others define it as a commitment and affection that is mutual and enduring. And still others say that it’s a mix of all three feelings that create a bond between two people.

Regardless of the definition you choose, it’s important to understand what love really is in order to write about it in an authentic way. You can use this knowledge to help your readers feel what the characters in your story are feeling and connect with them on a deeper level.

One of the most common ways that people describe love is by sharing their own experiences. Some of these are happy and uplifting, while others can be incredibly painful and heartbreaking. But despite their differences, they all share a similar core: a deep sense of attachment and belonging.

Then there are the more abstract theories of love that are based on philosophical and religious beliefs. These include love as union, love as robust concern, and love as valuing. These theories attempt to explain the variety of feelings that come with loving someone, including frustration, exasperation, and anger.

In some cases, these theories are used to justify actions that might otherwise be considered selfish or cruel. For example, if you’re in love with someone who suffers from mental illness or addiction, you may feel compelled to take risks or make sacrifices for them. But this kind of love can also be dangerous, as it can lead to compulsive behavior and even self-medication.

There are also scientific and biological studies that suggest that love is a basic human emotion, like happiness or sadness. Some scientists even argue that it’s a biologically driven drive that’s similar to the way we respond to hunger or thirst.

While the characterization of love differs among researchers, most agree that it’s a complex and multifaceted emotion. Psychologist Enrique Burunat describes it as “a motivation, an emotional thorn that keeps us going in the face of life’s difficulties.”

Whether you’re writing about romantic or platonic love, it’s essential to consider your audience and how they might interpret your words. If you’re writing for a young audience, using overly flowery language might turn them off, while a more mature audience may find it unrealistic and oversimplified.

When you’re writing about a character in love, show rather than tell. Describe the way they look at each other, how they touch, and their interactions with one another. This will help your audience become fully immersed in the story and experience the emotions of the characters firsthand.