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Don't say 'wife.' I'm your mistress. Wife's such an ugly…

“Don't say 'wife.' I'm your mistress. Wife's such an ugly word. Your 'permanent mistress' is so much more tangible and desirable… .” quote by F. Scott Fitzgerald
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“Don't say 'wife.' I'm your mistress. Wife's such an ugly word. Your 'permanent mistress' is so much more tangible and desirable… .”

F. Scott Fitzgerald

About This Quote

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

The speaker rejects traditional marriage terminology, preferring a more explicit, tangible label for a long‑term lover.

In simple terms: She calls a long‑term lover a “permanent mistress” instead of wife.

Key Takeaway

Question the language we use for relationships.

Themes

relationships gender roles language intimacy

Mood

defiant provocative

Type

challenging controversial

When to use this quote

  • romantic partnership
  • non‑traditional relationships
  • public perception
  • legal rights

Key Concepts

feminism social norms identity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does naming affect the legitimacy of a partnership?
  • What societal pressures influence our choice of relationship labels?
A Different Perspective

The term “wife” carries social expectations that may not fit all arrangements.

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