Why Do Books and Movies Move Me, But Everyday Interactions Don’t?

Why do books and movies move me, but everyday interactions feel mundane? The answer lies in the fundamental differences between these forms of engagement and the way our brains process emotions and information.

Why Books and Movies Are Compelling

Books and movies are crafted to evoke emotion from the very start. They employ metaphors and imagery to convey complex emotions deliberately. Unlike everyday interactions, these mediums are designed to make you feel understood and to explore your emotions and thoughts in a safe, affirming, and meaningful way.

Take a step back and reflect on your childhood. What stands out as important? For many, this reflection reveals a challenging past that made them wary of emotional intimacy. Books and movies offer a step further away in emotional reality, making it easier to allow oneself to relate and become emotionally involved. If this resonates, try writing out childhood experiences that still bother you. Overcoming these issues can help in unlocking deeper emotional connections.

The Pace of Reading vs. Interpersonal Interaction

One of the primary reasons books and movies are more emotionally resonant is the pace at which they engage us. When we read, we can take our time. The understanding of what we read can be paced according to our own comfort. We can imagine ourselves as part of the story as it unfolds before us. In contrast, people often talk very fast, and keeping up with the pace of others can be exhausting.

Reading is also a way to relax. A book can be a place to fall asleep, while interpersonal interactions demand constant alertness and engagement. When you interact with people, you can't simply nod off when you get tired. This constant need to stay on your toes can be draining.

The Impact of Emotional Control in Childhood

Another reason why daily interactions may feel emotionally flat could be rooted in the emotional control required during childhood. For many individuals, especially those with a strong father figure, childhood may have demanded that emotions be kept in check to fit into societal norms better. In previous generations, showing emotions could be seen as a sign of weakness, leading to difficulty in forming deep emotional connections.

Blaming societal norms might come to mind, but it's important to understand that the environment and expectations of previous generations were different. Showing emotions too openly could lead to being targeted and subjected to abuse, which is entirely understandable. It's great that you can feel emotions through literature and films, as this indicates a positive shift towards emotional openness and understanding.

Hopefully, this reflection brings some clarity to your inquiry. Emotions are complex, and finding the right balance in your interactions is an ongoing process. Remember, it's okay to take your time and find ways to connect with others in a meaningful way.