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All marriages are like this. The component parts are…

“All marriages are like this. The component parts are contempt and irritation because we know each other by heart, by rote; we're all graduates of the blab school for double harness. Then he looked at the redgold hair, the sweet curve of the mouth, and thought, Truthlie, because marriage is more…” quote by Ann Petry
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““All marriages are like this. The component parts are contempt and irritation because we know each other by heart, by rote; we're all graduates of the blab school for double harness. Then he looked at the redgold hair, the sweet curve of the mouth, and thought, Truthlie, because marriage is more than that. It's part hate, part love. It's remembered agony, and remembered delight.””

Ann Petry

About This Quote

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

Marriage blends love and conflict, showing that deep familiarity brings both affection and irritation.

In simple terms: Marriage mixes love and hate.

Key Takeaway

Accept both sides of partnership.

Themes

relationships marriage conflict intimacy

Mood

reflective bittersweet

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • couples therapy
  • family gatherings
  • long‑term partnerships

Key Concepts

psychology human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance love and irritation?
  • What habits reduce contempt?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook the possibility of growth beyond resentment.

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