Three Powerful Lessons About Love (Encore)
Modern Love
Deep Dive
Why did Daniel Jones choose the submission model for the Modern Love column instead of commissioning stories from famous writers?
He wanted to open the floodgates and see what came in, believing it would draw stories from people who otherwise wouldn't have shared them. This approach created a safe space for readers to submit their own stories, inspired by others who had done the same.
What has Daniel Jones learned about love and relationships from editing the Modern Love column over 20 years?
He has learned that love is not just about romantic relationships but encompasses all forms of human bonds, including family, friendships, and parenthood. The column has also taught him about the importance of presence, the beauty of impermanence, and the necessity of conflict in deepening relationships.
How has Daniel Jones' personal life influenced his approach to editing the Modern Love column?
His life experiences, including the end of his 29-year marriage, the death of his father, and the growth of his children into adulthood, have given him a deeper understanding of the complexities of love and loss. These personal experiences have made the column's stories more relatable and impactful for him.
What does the essay 'One Bouquet of Fleeting Beauty, Please' teach about love and impermanence?
The essay emphasizes that the beauty of love lies in its impermanence. The fleeting nature of connections makes them precious and beautiful, teaching the importance of being present and appreciating the moment, rather than fearing loss.
What lesson does the essay 'Nursing a Wound in an Appropriate Setting' offer about conflict in relationships?
The essay highlights that conflict, when resolved, can deepen a relationship. It challenges the idea that a successful relationship should avoid fighting, showing that fighting can lead to a better understanding of each other and a stronger bond.
What does the essay 'My First Lesson in Motherhood' reveal about bravery and love?
The essay demonstrates that bravery is a core act of love and life. It shows the courage required to make difficult choices, such as deciding to keep a child with severe health issues, and the importance of embracing life's messiness rather than trying to avoid it.
What advice does Daniel Jones give for submitting a Modern Love essay?
He advises against a cocky or overly confident approach, suggesting that humility and a sense of searching for answers are more compelling. Stories should present problems in an interesting way without necessarily needing to provide solutions.
- The 20th anniversary of the Modern Love column
- The column's reader submission model and its impact
- The diverse range of love stories shared in the column
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