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They’ll hear about your husband’s fortune. The suitors…

“They’ll hear about your husband’s fortune. The suitors will begin to gather, and I want you to promise me this. Whenever one of them proposes, as they will, Doris must say rapturously, ‘Oh, David! All my life I’ve wanted to live in Israel.’ When he hears that she intends to live there instead of…” quote by James A. Michener
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““They’ll hear about your husband’s fortune. The suitors will begin to gather, and I want you to promise me this. Whenever one of them proposes, as they will, Doris must say rapturously, ‘Oh, David! All my life I’ve wanted to live in Israel.’ When he hears that she intends to live there instead of bringing him to the United States, you’ll see his interest evaporate. I said evaporate. It vanishes.” He waved his hands violently back and forth across his face to indicate total abolishment.””

James A. Michener

About This Quote

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

A character manipulates a suitor’s interest by feigning a desire to live abroad, using emotional persuasion to alter marital decisions.

In simple terms: Manipulating desire to influence marriage choices.

Key Takeaway

Use honest communication over manipulation.

Themes

marriage persuasion culture identity relationships

Mood

cautious thoughtful

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • arranged marriage negotiations
  • cross‑cultural relationships
  • family planning
  • diplomacy

Key Concepts

emotional leverage cultural expectations family dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is deception ever justified in love?
  • What are ethical ways to influence decisions?
A Different Perspective

Risk of deceit eroding trust.

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