Photo by Jann Pascua. Shot using the HUAWEI PURA 70 ULTRA
Throughout history, humans have tried to rationalize the meaning behind the ties that bind our relationships
Many cultures have tried to unravel the mystery behind the bonds that connect people with one another. Regardless of the distances between them, each culture has had myths and legends that are all tied toward a common symbol: the thread. Think of Greek mythology for example, who feature the Moirai (the embodiments of fate) that each hold a golden thread for every single living being, which is severed at the end of their mortal lives. In Jewish tradition, pilgrims on expeditions to Jerusalem often tie a Kabbalah to their wrists, which is a red string known to guide believers throughout their journey.
In recent memory, the Asian interpretation of this concept has garnered public attention, most notably being featured as the central theme of the film Past Lives. Two of its main characters are connected by In-yun, which is a Korean term rooted in a Chinese Buddhist proverb which references “an invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place, and circumstance.”
The proverb is an allegory for love, destiny, and the interconnectedness of life’s relationships, even for those who have yet to meet. In an age where technology has democratized the way people connect, the myth continues to persist. In a way, the screens people use to interact with each other have concretized the invisible threads that link each person toward the web, allowing people to foster relationships beyond distance.
Despite the changes brought about by digitalization, the love that people seek remains constant. “There’s no question that technology is changing the way we court: emailing, texting, emojis to express your emotions, liking a photograph, or selfies. We’re seeing new rules and taboos for how to court,” says anthropologist Helen Fisher. “However, at the core of these interactions lies a fundamental human desire for connection,” she adds.
Technology has simply provided us with the means to nurture relationships that might have otherwise been impossible. In a world where screens mediate interactions and virtual spaces facilitate relationships, the intrinsic human longing for connection persists. The evolution of courtship rituals may reflect societal changes, but at its core lies a timeless pursuit of genuine human bonds. Ultimately, technology acts as an extension of the age-old threads of fate and destiny, weaving an interconnected web of human connection that transcends the limitations of time and circumstance.
Photography and Creative Direction by Jann Pascua. Video by Chapters PH. Styling by David Milan. Make-up by Janica Cleto. Hair by JA Feliciano. Production Design by Justine Arcega-Bumanlag. Produced by Robert Bradly Hao. Multimedia Artist: Andie Quintos. Project implemented by Ian Urmaza and Leahkim Orsolino. Talent: Cath Ibay. Written by Gab Yap
