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This is a discussion topic for the November 2023 Book of the Month, Artwords by Beatriz M. Robles

How are the themes and messages in this book relevant in today's world?

In speaking about the themes of love and the human connection specifically, the exploration of the various types of love that exist is incredibly important as we come back to a world of human connection and interaction post-COVID as well as in the eye of the technological storm that is pulling as away from eyes and onto screens.

We are now presented with a large population of people who are scared or angry at one another, or who simply struggle with understanding what the other is feeling because we are no unable to utilize content clues about those around us.

Robles' characterization of love via intensity and passion presents that forgotten concept that love comes in a variety pack with every person, and that you have to connect with and understand the person to be able to identify how and when they love. In some, we have to take risks because people aren't just going to tell us a short list of details--I don't know anyone who truly could even if they wanted to.

Her presentation of the human condition targets insight and wisdom, and unfortunately, so many people have fallen out of touch with those traits that they're going to have to trip and fall all over the place to get back into the swing of things. This includes reaching out when you're uncomfortable and reflecting on each interaction in an introspective manner.

The one beautiful thing about it all is that we're all in the same boat, and the only difference is that some of us are taking more steps and falling than others.