World · Europe · 2 hrs ago
People describe what they are yearning for
People interviewed on the street shared what they are yearning for, from a place by the sea to a day off.
Elizabeth Kennedy misses the idea of a former home by the sea, while Manar hopes to visit family in Oman over the holidays.
Others long for friendships, relationships, time at the gym or human connection, even when some of those things are already part of their lives.
Yearning has become a popular theme in entertainment, including romantic stories built around desire that is not quickly fulfilled.
Some interviewees linked the feeling to online life and loneliness, while others said social media has made people more open about it.
One woman said she does not yearn and is happy with what she has.
The Guardian asked people on the street what they are yearning for.
Their answers included a seaside place, friendships, a return to the gym, home in Oman and a day off.
Some interviewees said yearning can make ordinary things feel more meaningful or reflect a desire for deeper connection.
Others described yearning as something people are discussing more openly or romanticising.
The article links renewed interest in yearning to popular entertainment and social media.
- Who
- People interviewed by the Guardian, including Elizabeth Kennedy, Adam Hamill, Erys, Manar and Declan.
- What
- They described what they are yearning for. Their answers included places, relationships, activities and time off.
- When
- The article was published on 8 November 2026. The interviewees were asked what they were yearning for right now.
- Where
- On the streets; the specific location is not stated.
- Why
- The Guardian asked about yearning amid renewed interest in the feeling, including in entertainment and on social media.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
This story does not have a timeline yet.
- Publication date
- 8 November 2026
- Elizabeth Kennedy
- 63; yearns for a place beside the sea
- Adam Hamill
- 24; values and yearns for his friendships and relationships
- Erys
- 26; yearns to return to the gym
- Manar
- 21; yearns for home in Oman
- Declan
- 30; yearns for a day off
What people are saying
It’s natural to yearn for something – you learn to enjoy the process.
The human touch is missing for a lot of people – a bit of loneliness maybe.
I feel like people are pining more openly these days, especially on social media.
people have been romanticising yearning a lot