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In asking forgiveness of women for our mythologizing of…

“In asking forgiveness of women for our mythologizing of their bodies, for being unreal about them, we can only appeal to their own sexuality, which is different but not basically different, perhaps, from our own. For women, too, there seems to be that tangle of supplication and possessiveness…” quote by John Updike
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“In asking forgiveness of women for our mythologizing of their bodies, for being unreal about them, we can only appeal to their own sexuality, which is different but not basically different, perhaps, from our own. For women, too, there seems to be that tangle of supplication and possessiveness, that descent toward infantile undifferentiation, that omnipotent helplessness, that merger with the cosmic mother-warmth, that flushed pulse-quickened leap into overestimation, projection, general mix-up.”

John Updike

About This Quote

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

Explores how men’s fantasies and possessive attitudes shape women’s sexual identity, blurring boundaries between self and other.

In simple terms: Men’s myths affect women’s sexuality.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and respect women’s autonomous sexuality.

Themes

gender sexuality myth identity power possession

Mood

thoughtful analytical critical

Type

philosophical social reflective

When to use this quote

  • relationship counseling
  • gender studies
  • personal introspection
  • artistic expression
  • educational workshops

Key Concepts

feminist theory psychology social construct

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do cultural myths influence personal identity?
  • Can men and women truly share the same sexual experience?
A Different Perspective

May oversimplify complex gender dynamics.

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