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Is Eros romantic?

Published in Philosophy of Love 2 mins read

Eros can be initially expressed as romantic love, but ultimately it is a desire for deeper psychic connection and wholeness beyond just romance.

While Eros is often associated with passionate love and desire, its true nature extends beyond simple romance. The reference highlights that Eros represents a yearning for wholeness and psychic relatedness, seeking interconnection and interaction with other beings. This suggests that the initial passionate love is just one facet of Eros, not its entirety.

Here's a breakdown of the complexities of Eros:

  • Initial Romantic Manifestation: Eros can certainly manifest as romantic love, characterized by intense attraction, passion, and a desire for union with another person. This is the aspect most commonly associated with the term.

  • Beyond Romance: However, the deeper meaning of Eros points towards a desire for "psychic relatedness." This encompasses:

    • Interconnection: A feeling of being linked to others on a profound level.
    • Interaction: Engaging with others in meaningful ways that foster growth and understanding.
    • Wholeness: A sense of completeness achieved through these connections and interactions, addressing an inherent sense of lack.
  • Not Exclusively Romantic: Therefore, while romantic love can be a powerful expression of Eros, it is not the only or even the defining expression. Eros can be found in deep friendships, familial bonds, creative pursuits, and even spiritual connections.

In essence, Eros is a fundamental drive for connection and wholeness that uses romantic love as one possible, but not exclusive, avenue of expression. Its ultimate goal is psychic relatedness and a sense of completeness, making it more than just romance.

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