The messages on the colorful candy hearts produced for Valentine’s Day each year require careful planning and editing. They also speak volumes about the state of our lives and loves.
So just who comes up with those sugary sayings? Kim Severson, a food reporter for The New York Times, went on a Valentine’s Day quest into their origins. “I decided to go back as far as I could to figure out how the words have changed over time,” Kim said. She uncovered a charming history of the expressions Americans have used to say “be mine.”
Listen to Kim’s story by clicking play on the audio player above. Then, share it with someone you love.
Image
Messages on Sweethearts, produced by the Spangler Candy Company. “Paw Some” and “Papa Bear” are new phrases for 2023, a nod to the number to the number of people who have adopted animals during the pandemic.Credit...Cole Wilson for The New York Times. Prop Stylist: Kounthear Kuch
