Throughout history, people have pondered the idea of love. It’s one of the most complex feelings that we can experience as human beings, and it has been the subject of many artistic works, from poetry to movies. In modern times, scientific research has begun to investigate the complexities of this feeling as well. Whether you’re writing about your own experiences in love or examining the varying definitions of this emotion, here are some tips to help you write an essay about it.

1. Falling in Love

When you’re falling in love, you often find yourself thinking about the person all the time and seeing them in every part of your life. You might start to notice their little quirks and feel a rush when you think of them. This is because of a jumble of chemicals in your brain, including dopamine and adrenaline. It’s like a drug, and it’s why your cheeks become flushed and your palms sweat when you first meet someone that you really like.

This stage of falling in love usually lasts a few days or weeks, and you might even go through periods when you don’t feel as gushy toward them. That’s normal, and it’s also important to remember that you’re not actually in a “love coma” and that the feeling will come back again.

2. Love That Lasts

Once you’ve moved past the initial stages of love, it can move into a different kind of attachment. When this happens, you might become dedicated to your partner and want to do anything for them. This is because of a different kind of chemical, oxytocin, which helps you bond with another person. This stage is typically accompanied by empathy and a desire to make their life easier. It’s common to try to please your loved one during this phase, but it’s important to keep in mind that it doesn’t mean you should compromise your values or give up on your dreams.

3. Love That Changes

Once your relationship settles in, you might begin to see the world through a different lens. This is because you have a deeper understanding of the other person and their priorities. You might also learn their habits and preferences, which can influence how you interact with them.

This type of love is often described as a “love of service,” or a desire to provide others with comfort and support. This can be expressed through acts such as bringing food or medicine when they’re sick, helping with a project at work, or just doing chores around the house. The love of service can also be seen in religious traditions, such as when Christians express their devotion to God through helping the poor or the sick. It’s also the basis of many political marriages and alliances, including those between countries. The philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau argued that this type of love is essential for the survival of humankind.