If ever a man and his wife, or a man and his mistress, who…
“If ever a man and his wife, or a man and his mistress, who pass nights as well as days together, absolutely lay aside all good breeding, their intimacy will soon degenerate into a coarse familiarity, infallibly productive of contempt or disgust.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Close, constant proximity without respect erodes dignity, leading to contempt or disgust.
In simple terms: Intimacy without respect breeds contempt.
Key Takeaway
Maintain respect in relationships.
Themes
respect
intimacy
boundaries
contempt
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- marriage
- long-term partnerships
- cohabitation
- friendships
Key Concepts
social dynamics
relationship health
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you preserve respect in close relationships?
- What boundaries protect intimacy?
A Different Perspective
Neglecting mutual respect can cause emotional distance.