Love in its many forms
Some of the expressions of love, romantic or otherwise, can be found in the Modern Love column in the New York Times.
The column has been publishing personal essays about relationships every week for over twenty years now. Thousands of stories about love in all its forms - very messy and complicated and tender and surprising. The TV series on Amazon adapts some of these, and I’ve been watching them lately.
When the Doorman Is Your Main Man, about a single woman and her building’s doorman who becomes her confidant and father figure. The Race Grows Sweeter Near Its Final Lap, where Jane Alexander finds companionship in old age. Take Me as I Am, Whoever I Am, with Anne Hathaway navigating bipolar disorder and love.
These stories understand something important: love isn’t really about the spectacular moments. It’s about showing up. And the small, repeated gestures. It’s about what love looks like most of the time - not on the days we’re supposed to show it.
Which I guess is the opposite of Valentine’s Day - that one day circled in red on the calendar, expected to carry the weight of all the other days that aren’t. But perhaps that’s unfair. Love, in all its forms, deserves celebrating - even if, especially if, the calendar tells us to.
Today, love in the form of food. A menu for two. For your partner. For your friend. For your parent. For your doorman, even, if you’re lucky enough to have one.
Sour cherry mess with sesame filo brittle
This is a great dessert for sharing and is fun to smash down with a spoon. All of the elements can be made in advance and stored in separate containers; keep the compote and cream in the fridge. This recipe makes more sesame brittle than you’ll need, but it makes a good snack with tea or coffee.
Baked fregola with king prawns and tomato dressing
Once it soaks up the flavoured stock, the baked fregola turns glossy and rich. The prawns’ cooking time may vary, depending on your grill, so keep an eye. Serve this at the table, straight from the pan, in a totally informal way.
