Dante Remy |
"The Impression", the third installment in the Erosetti pillow book series, is a narrative that delves into the profound shifts within a longstanding friendship, exploring themes of passion, desire, and the exploration of boundaries. I wrote with a heavy dose of sensory detail and emotional depth as modern reflection on the ancient Greek concepts of love: Eros, Philia, and Agape.
Philia: The Bond of Friendship
Philia signifies a deep, affectionate friendship, a love founded on mutual respect, shared experiences, and a genuine concern for the other's well-being. Aristotle, in "Nicomachean Ethics", emphasizes the importance of Philia as a cornerstone of a happy life, suggesting that friendships of virtue are those where individuals wish good things for each other for the sake of the other. The foundation of the relationship in "The Impression" is rooted in Philia; the narrator and their friend share everything, from intimate thoughts to the mundane details of their lives, creating a bond that is both tender and profound. The transition from Philia to Eros highlights the complexity of human relationships, where deep friendship can evolve into something more passionate and consuming.
Eros: The Flame of Desire
Eros, in Greek tradition, represents passionate love, embodying both physical attraction and an intense emotional connection. Plato, in his dialogue "The Symposium", discusses Eros as a powerful force that can lead one towards the pursuit of beauty and truth. In "The Impression", the stolen kiss and subsequent passionate encounter between the two friends embody Eros in its rawest form. I wanted the narrator to describe the moment of surrender to desire that is both unexpected and overwhelmingly intense, culminating in the line, "I wanted…no, I needed you inside me. Now." This moment of physical connection, marked by a blend of anticipation, desire, and a hint of danger, mirrors the chaotic and transformative nature of Eros as described by the ancients.
Agape: The Love of the Soul
Agape is a selfless, unconditional love, a love that is charitable, altruistic, and benevolent. This type of love is often associated with a spiritual or divine love, one that transcends the physical and the personal. While I wrote "The Impression" primarily to explore Eros and Philia, elements of Agape can be discerned in the characters' willingness to explore the boundaries of their relationship and the profound connection that transcends physical desire. The act of spanking, beyond its explicit nature, serves as a metaphor for the breaking of societal norms and an exploration of deeper, more soulful connections between the characters. Was it a reach? I think not. My goal was for the reader, like narrator, to have moved through these loves and to a higher level of connection.
The Dance of Love
"The Impression" interweaves these three types of love, as means to convey the complex and multifaceted exploration of human desire and connection. I hoped to invite readers into a deeply immersive experience through the interplay of word and visual art, encouraging reflection on the nature of love, friendship, and the boundaries we are willing to explore in pursuit of passion.
Philosophers have long debated the nature and forms of love, from Plato's idealized forms to Aristotle's pragmatic considerations of friendship and virtue. "The Impression" offers a contemporary reflection on these themes, portraying love as a dynamic and evolving force that defies easy categorization. I write it as a challenge to readers to consider the ways in which love can surprise us, transform us, and leave an indelible mark on our lives.
As you journey through the narratives of the Erosetti series, I have woven in reminders of the timeless nature of love's exploration. Whether through the passionate embrace of Eros, the tender bond of Philia, or the soulful depths of Agape, love in all its forms continues to inspire, challenge, and transform us. "The Impression" is a celebration of the enduring power of love to create new beginnings and to leave a lasting impression on the canvas of our lives.
©️ 2024 Dante Remy
Learn more about Dante Remy, author, and Reina Canalla, Illustrator, at ErosettiPress.com!
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