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Ella had considered this before, with amusement. But she…

“Ella had considered this before, with amusement. But she is thinking: No. If they had thought us Lesbian it would have attracted them, they would have been around in swarms. Every man I’ve ever known has spoken with relish—either openly or unconsciously, about Lesbians. It’s an aspect of their…” quote by Doris Lessing
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““Ella had considered this before, with amusement. But she is thinking: No. If they had thought us Lesbian it would have attracted them, they would have been around in swarms. Every man I’ve ever known has spoken with relish—either openly or unconsciously, about Lesbians. It’s an aspect of their incredible vanity: seeing themselves as redeemers of these lost females””

Doris Lessing

About This Quote

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

The quote critiques how men claim to “save” lesbians, revealing their ego‑driven desire to appear heroic while objectifying women.

In simple terms: Men boast about rescuing lesbians to boost their own image.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and challenge self‑serving narratives about gender.

Themes

gender ego objectification heroism feminism

Mood

critical reflective defiant

Type

analytical commentary

When to use this quote

  • literary analysis
  • gender studies
  • social commentary
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

masculine pride social performance female agency

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this narrative affect lesbian identity?
  • What alternative ways can men support without centering themselves?
A Different Perspective

It overlooks lesbians’ own agency and reduces them to a male fantasy.

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