Why is love so difficult? Why do we push it away, sabotage it, or cling to it long after it’s gone? Drawing on over forty years of conversations with patients, renowned psychoanalyst and author Stephen Grosz invites us into the intimate space of the consulting room to explore what gets in the way of falling—and staying—in love.

In his new book Love’s Labour, Grosz reveals what our relationships can teach us when we learn to listen. From a woman unable to send her wedding invitations, to a grieving partner trapped in unbearable loss, to friendships torn apart by betrayal—these are stories of real people and real pain, illuminated with insight, compassion, and quiet wisdom.

Join us at The Conduit for a searching, deeply human conversation on the mysteries of the heart—and the lifelong work of loving and being loved.

Event Schedule

6:00pm: Pre-event socialising and networking

A cash bar will be available for refreshments.

6:15pm: Event begins

7:30pm: Event ends

Speakers:

Stephen Grosz is a psychoanalyst and writer. He is the internationally bestselling author of The Examined Life. Born in America and educated at the University of California, Berkeley and at Oxford University, he now lives and practices in London.

Robert Icke is an award-winning writer and director, working in theatre and on screen. His awards include two Evening Standard ‘Best Director’ Awards, two Critics’ Circle ‘Best Director’ Awards, the Kurt Hübner Award, and two Olivier Awards, one for ‘Best Director’, of which he was the youngest ever winner. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature, and was awarded the Classical Association Prize in 2025.