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The whole point of marriage is to stop you getting…

“The whole point of marriage is to stop you getting anywhere near real life. You think it's a great struggle with the mystery of being. It's more like being smothered in warm cocoa. There's sex, but it's not what you think. Marvellous, for the first fortnight. Then every Wednesday. If there isn't a…” quote by Malcolm Bradbury
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“The whole point of marriage is to stop you getting anywhere near real life. You think it's a great struggle with the mystery of being. It's more like being smothered in warm cocoa. There's sex, but it's not what you think. Marvellous, for the first fortnight. Then every Wednesday. If there isn't a good late-night concert on the Third. Meanwhile you become a biological functionary. An agent of the great female womb, spawning away, dumping its goods in your lap for succour. Daddy, daddy, we're here, and we're expensive.”

Malcolm Bradbury

About This Quote

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

Marriage is portrayed as a stifling, routine existence that initially feels exciting but quickly becomes burdensome.

In simple terms: Marriage can feel smothering after novelty fades.

Key Takeaway

Seek balance and personal autonomy.

Themes

relationships satire domestic life

Mood

wry critical

Type

satirical reflective

When to use this quote

  • marital counseling
  • career focus
  • personal boundaries

Key Concepts

marriage routine personal freedom

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes marriage feel restrictive?
  • How to maintain individuality in partnership?
A Different Perspective

May generalize marriage negatively.

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