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Two women seldom grow intimate but at the expense of a…

“Two women seldom grow intimate but at the expense of a third person; they make friendships as kings of old made leagues, who sacrificed some poor animal betwixt them, and commenced strict allies; so the ladies, after they have pulled some character to pieces, are from henceforth inviolable friends.” quote by Alexander Pope
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“Two women seldom grow intimate but at the expense of a third person; they make friendships as kings of old made leagues, who sacrificed some poor animal betwixt them, and commenced strict allies; so the ladies, after they have pulled some character to pieces, are from henceforth inviolable friends.”

Alexander Pope

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Intimate friendships among women can become exclusive, making them fiercely protective of each other.

In simple terms: Close female bonds become exclusive and protective.

Key Takeaway

Respect boundaries in close friendships.

Themes

friendship exclusivity gender dynamics

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • college dorm life
  • workplace teams
  • online communities

Key Concepts

social contracts loyalty

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes a friendship feel exclusive?
  • How can inclusivity be balanced with closeness?
A Different Perspective

Exclusivity may marginalize others.

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