Frieda Hughes celebrates Valentine's Day solo while her partner travels abroad

In 2025, poet and artist Frieda Hughes finds herself alone on Valentine's Day, in stark contrast to the common romantic expectations associated with the date. Hughes reflects on her partner's absence, who is away on a trip, leaving her to grapple with solitude while others engage in typical Valentine's Day festivities. The memories of her youth come rushing back, filled with past heartaches and the impact that love has had on her life. Hughes notes the pressure to conform to the mainstream celebration of love, contrasting it with her personal experience and artistic endeavors. As she dedicates herself to her work, Hughes draws a parallel between her creative process and her relationship with love, suggesting that love extends beyond conventional celebrations. Her reflections on self-love and the importance of personal expression sit at the heart of her Valentine's experience, emphasizing how individuality can shine through amid societal expectations. Hughes acknowledges the bittersweet nature of this day, turning what could be perceived as loneliness into a moment of empowerment and self-discovery through art.