The Art of Crying: Understanding the Healing Power of Tears

The Art of Crying by Pepita Sandwich redefines what it means to shed tears, transforming the common perception of crying from a sign of weakness into a source of resilience and self-discovery. What if tears weren’t just an uncontrollable response to sadness or vulnerability but a potent tool for healing, renewal, and connection?

“Crying is special… tears are crystal doors to our emotions.”

Through her art and narrative, Sandwich uncovers the intricate ways in which crying influences our emotional experiences, encouraging readers to see their vulnerability as a source of strength. This work intertwines memoir with cultural inquiry, serving as a personal account of her own “lacrimal life,” an investigation into the biological and cultural meanings of tears, and a passionate call for embracing open, unrestrained crying as a revolutionary expression of emotional intelligence. She reframes tears not simply as a result of sadness but as a vital, multi-dimensional response that connects us to our shared humanity.

In her book, Sandwich presents a persuasive argument for the healing power of tears, inspiring us to recognize crying as a significant act of self-discovery, bravery, and connection with others. While most animals show emotional responses, humans alone weep as a reaction to feelings—a unique and deeply meaningful act. This book argues that crying is humanity’s most extraordinary and misunderstood “special effect,” a hidden superpower that helps us process complex emotions, build empathy, and experience life more richly.

Sandwich takes readers on a journey into the science and history of tears.

Sandwich starts her exploration with the science behind crying, categorizing the three distinct types of tears that we produce. First are basal tears, which serve as a natural lubricant, essential for maintaining clear vision and protecting the eyes from dryness and irritation. Next, she discusses reflex tears, which are the body’s immediate response to irritants such as smoke, onions, or foreign particles, acting as a cleansing mechanism to flush out unwanted substances. Finally, she delves into the most profound category: emotional tears. These tears, which she affectionately refers to as the “custodians of the heart,” are uniquely human and represent our deepest feelings and emotional experiences. By examining these different types of tears, Sandwich highlights their distinct biological functions while emphasizing the emotional significance of crying as a uniquely human phenomenon, paving the way for a deeper understanding of how tears can reflect our inner lives and foster connections with others.

The Art of Crying offers a fresh perspective on one of the most human things we do, encouraging readers to see their vulnerability as a bridge to greater fulfillment and connection. It weaves together personal reflection and universal insights about emotional expression, the book becomes an essential read for anyone looking to grasp the significance of tears and the bonds they create. With warmth and humor, she reveals how “letting it all out” can bring comfort, clarity, and growth, inspiring us to embrace our tears as a path to emotional strength and self-acceptance.