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Every man experiences what you call love for every pretty…

“Every man experiences what you call love for every pretty woman and least of all for his wife. That is what the proverb says, and it is a true one. "Another's wife is a swan, but one's own is bitter wormwood.” quote by Leo Tolstoy
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““Every man experiences what you call love for every pretty woman and least of all for his wife. That is what the proverb says, and it is a true one. "Another's wife is a swan, but one's own is bitter wormwood.””

Leo Tolstoy

About This Quote

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

People often idealize others while undervaluing their own partners, reflecting common human bias toward novelty over familiarity.

In simple terms: We tend to love outsiders more than our own.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate what you have.

Themes

relationships bias marriage

Mood

reflective melancholy

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • marriage counseling
  • daily appreciation
  • relationship building

Key Concepts

psychology social comparison

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you notice this bias in your life?
  • How can you honor your partner more?
A Different Perspective

Idealizing others can overlook the value of existing relationships.

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