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The word “marriage” lingered in Guy’s ears, too. It was a…

“The word “marriage” lingered in Guy’s ears, too. It was a solemn word to him. It had the primordial solemnity of holy, love, sin. It was Miriam’s round terra cotta-coloured mouth saying, “Why should I put myself out for you?” and it was Anne’s eyes as she pushed her hair back and looked up at him…” quote by Patricia Highsmith
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““The word “marriage” lingered in Guy’s ears, too. It was a solemn word to him. It had the primordial solemnity of holy, love, sin. It was Miriam’s round terra cotta-coloured mouth saying, “Why should I put myself out for you?” and it was Anne’s eyes as she pushed her hair back and looked up at him on the lawn of her house where she planted crocuses. It was Miriam turning from the tall thin window in the room in Chicago, lifting her freckled, shield-shaped face directly up to his as she always did before she told a lie, and Steve’s long dark head, insolently smiling.””

Patricia Highsmith

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 depicted with complex, layered emotions, mixing reverence, doubt, and personal vulnerability, reflecting deep inner conflict.

In simple terms: Marriage feels solemn, confusing, and deeply personal.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge the nuanced emotions tied to commitment.

Themes

love marriage identity conflict vulnerability

Mood

introspective melancholic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • courtship
  • marital counseling
  • personal reflection
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

psychology relationship dynamics existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What fears arise when considering deep commitment?
  • How do personal histories shape our view of marriage?
A Different Perspective

Romantic ideals often clash with personal insecurities, complicating commitment.

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