The subject of love is one of which the world will never tire. Many writers have built flourishing careers based purely on love and all its different courses.
Yet, when it comes to defining love we find its meaning written in thousands of ways throughout history, but still without an absolute, single definition. It is a complex array of emotions, needs, feelings, and more. Yet, in its purest form, love is so very simple.
Have you ever watched a small boy who is enthralled by a caterpillar spinning its cocoon, or seen the rapture on a young girl's face as she greets her first doll? Sincere, uncomplicated adoration is reflected in many childhood experiences. A child loves without condition; they love fully with no ulterior motive. They are both honest and expressive in their affections, and just as honest and expressive when things don't go their way. The tantrum of a two-year-old reminds us well!
Sadly this unadulterated love does not last long. Children face peer pressure, stresses of learning and making new friends. Changing responsibilities and concerns press upon each one of us as we grow through our childhood. Eventually someone will break our trust. When this happens we become less free in where we place our trust and our so it follows that our love is then given more selectively.
We can learn much from observing a child's expression of love in those early, trusting years. This type of love brings us a depth to explore in our writing. It is possible to capture that precious and uncompromising sincerity. To invoke the memories and sensations of a child-like love approach, place yourself in these situations:
* the delight of your first pet
* the gratitude in a candy from Grandma
* the complete adoration you felt towards a first crush
* the respect held toward a role model (teacher, older sibling, minister...)
* the trust in your parent as they removed a splinter from your finger
* the sudden and unbidden jealousy as a new baby takes attention away from you
* the serenity of falling asleep - warm, cozy, and secure
* the excitement of going somewhere special with dad or mum (without other siblings)
* the inconsolable anxiety of being separated from mum and dad for the first time
* the contentment of sitting on a parent's lap
Think about the above scenarios, remember what it was like in your own childhood, or observe the reactions of your children or grandchildren. Use both what you see and remember, and add to it the emotion those memories and observations engender within you to bring a deeper emotiveness into your writing. Rejuvenate tired love with the simplicity of a child's passion. Be inspired by a love both complete and honest.
Once the mindset of love through a child's eyes is developed the wording should reflect the innocence of that emotion. Word choice can completely alter the effect and meaning of a scene.
Go ahead now and write, imbuing your story or poem with the tender and sincere love as seen through the eyes of a child. Happy writing!
About the Author
Belinda Osgood is an author on http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Creative Writing.
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