All About Love by Bell Hooks is a dissection of the meaning of love. Hooks offers strong opinions and ideas defining love — including and beyond romance — and also challenges you to think about what love means to you, especially when it comes to the act and application. The book is broken down into 13 chapters, each themed around a concept of love and introduced with a relevant quote by a notable writer, mental health professional, or spiritual leader.
Although All About Love was published in 2001, its messages still ring true 20+ years later. Hooks discusses the state of our society, conveying that it lacks love, fears vulnerability and commitment, has lustful desires and selfish interests, and values money over compassion and community. The solutions? Forgiveness, consideration, and connection. Valuing peace and truth over ego. Recognizing others as our own mirrors. Ultimately, we come to the realization that love starts within us. We begin by filling our own cups, giving ourselves the love that we need and extending it to others. Only when we are able to love ourselves well are we able to love others purely and graciously.
In this book, Bell Hooks identifies the roots of love, articulates its many different forms, and inspires readers to become better lovers. Learning how to bridge the gap between where we are and operating from a more intentionally loving and compassionate space is completely worth this read.
“Making amends both to ourselves and to others is the gift compassion and forgiveness offers us. It is a process of emptying out wherein we let go all the waste so that there is a clear place within where we can see the other as ourself.” – Bell Hooks, All About Love
Discussion + Reflection:
What is your definition of love?
How do you express your love?
How do you embody love? (How are you an example of love?)
What is the first expression of love you remember giving?
What is the first expression of love you remember receiving?
Have you ever questioned love or had your love questioned?
Describe your experience with heartbreak.
How have your thoughts about love changed over time?
