In brief
Modern Love, a renowned column, has documented love's many facets for 20 years, sharing stories that reveal the triumphs, challenges, and enduring nature of love.
Modern Love, a column devoted to the curious corners of romance, marked its 20th anniversary this month. It began on Halloween twenty years ago with a tale by Steve Friedman, a lifelong bachelor navigating the tricky waters after being dumped. His poignant reflection on heartbreak set the stage for what would become a trusted space for readers to explore their own romantic journeys. Under the editorship of Daniel Jones, the column has offered a blend of intensely personal and widely shared narratives. The column's success pivots on three main avenues: discovering love, losing love, and the challenges of sustaining love. Memorable stories include Amy Sutherland's 2006 essay on incorporating animal training techniques to enhance her marriage, showing readers unconventional ways to strengthen relationships. The 2015 piece by Mandy Len Catron, "To Fall in Love With Anyone, Do This," offered a scientific exploration of love, suggesting that vulnerability and communication can enhance intimacy. Lastly, Amy Krouse Rosenthal's heartfelt piece during her terminal illness served as both a love letter and a hope for her husband’s future happiness, highlighting the selflessness often found in love. Through Modern Love’s journey, readers are continually reminded of the transformative power of love in its many forms.