Delving into the Love Languages of Different Cultures
As diverse as the world is in geography, so too is it in the expression of love. From the heart of Africa to the bustling streets of Tokyo, courtship and dating practices around the globe offer a fascinating glimpse into local cultures and traditions.
The Love-Struck Apple Throwers of Ireland
In traditional Irish culture, a woman showed her interest in a man not with a coy smile or a flirtatious glance, but by tossing an apple at him. If he was equally smitten, he’d catch the apple. Quite the ‘a-peeling’ way to say, “I’m interested,” wouldn’t you say?
Japan’s Kokuhaku: The Art of Love Confession
In Japan, the practice of kokuhaku (confession of love) is an integral part of the courtship process. It’s traditionally the responsibility of the person in love to confess their feelings directly and sincerely, often resulting in an instant shift from friendship to a romantic relationship. According to a 2017 study, around 70% of relationships in Japan start with a kokuhaku.
Love Whistles of the Kickapoo Tribe, Mexico
The Kickapoo Tribe in Mexico communicates love through a unique language: whistling. Young men serenade their potential partners with personalised tunes. If the woman whistles back, it’s a sign she reciprocates his feelings. This ‘whistle-while-you-woo’ method has been passed down generations.
Borneo’s Seclusion Tradition
In some tribes in Borneo, newly acquainted couples are expected to spend several nights together in a hut, away from the prying eyes of their community. However, they mustn’t touch each other and communicate only in whispers. If they emerge still interested in one another, they can start dating.
The Welsh Love Spoon Tradition
In Wales, the age-old tradition of carving intricate wooden spoons as a symbol of affection persists. A suitor presents his crafted love spoon to the woman he is interested in, and if she accepts, they begin courting. The oldest known love spoon dates back to the 17th century.
Austria’s Apple Slice Dance
In rural Austria, women used to perform a dance with apple slices stuffed in their armpits. After the dance, they would offer the sweat-soaked apple slice to the man they were interested in. If the feelings were mutual, he would eat the apple slice.
While these practices might seem quaint, or even strange, they remind us that the language of love is as diverse as the people who speak it. So the next time you find yourself navigating the tricky terrain of love, remember: there’s more than one way to express your feelings.
