Skip to content

There is cruelty in divorce. There is cruelty in forced or…

“There is cruelty in divorce. There is cruelty in forced or unfortunate marriage. We will continue to cry at weddings because we know how bittersweet, how fragile is the truth. We will always need legal divorce just as an emergency escape hatch is crucial in every submarine. No sense, however, in…” quote by Anne Roiphe
Download Open image
“There is cruelty in divorce. There is cruelty in forced or unfortunate marriage. We will continue to cry at weddings because we know how bittersweet, how fragile is the truth. We will always need legal divorce just as an emergency escape hatch is crucial in every submarine. No sense, however, in denying that after every divorce someone will be running like a cat, tin cans tied to its tail: spooked and slowed down.”

Anne Roiphe

About This Quote

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

Divorce and forced marriage cause deep emotional pain, yet they are necessary exits that protect individuals from ongoing harm, highlighting the fragile balance between love and autonomy.

In simple terms: Divorce is a painful but essential escape.

Key Takeaway

Legal separation safeguards personal freedom.

Themes

love autonomy pain societal expectations freedom

Mood

melancholy hopeful reflective

Type

philosophical observational emotive

When to use this quote

  • leaving an abusive relationship
  • ending an unfulfilling marriage
  • navigating post‑divorce adjustment
  • seeking emotional support after separation

Key Concepts

marriage divorce emotional trauma legal rights

Practical Applications

  • counseling services
  • legal aid for divorce

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does society’s view of marriage affect those in unhappy unions?
  • What support structures best help individuals rebuild after divorce?
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Anne Roiphe

Explore all 53 Anne Roiphe quotes

More Bittersweet quotes

Browse all 224 Bittersweet quotes