Sentimentalization refers to the act or process of converting ordinary or practical actions, events, objects, or ideas into something emotional, nostalgic, or overly sentimental. It involves imbuing everyday aspects of life with an exaggerated or idealized emotional significance, often emphasizing personal feelings or memories associated with them.
In sentimentalization, rational or realistic aspects of a subject may be overshadowed by sentimental or romanticized interpretations. It is a tendency to ascribe emotional value or meaning to something that might not inherently possess such significance. By sentimentalizing, individuals may attach an emotional or nostalgic attachment to ordinary objects, events, or experiences, imbuing them with a sense of sentimental worth.
This concept frequently appears in literature, art, advertising, and popular culture, where artists or creators may use sentimentalization to evoke emotions or manipulate the audience's feelings. It can also be seen as a societal or cultural phenomenon, where certain themes or objects gain sentimental value collectively.
The act of sentimentalization is not necessarily negative, as it can help individuals find deeper connections with their surroundings and enable a greater appreciation for the world around them. However, it may also lead to an unrealistic or distorted perception of reality, exaggerating emotional significance beyond what is objectively warranted.
Overall, sentimentalization involves infusing everyday life with sentimental or emotional attributes, transforming mundane aspects into objects of affection, nostalgia, or significance.
