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Say what you will, making marriage work is a woman's…

“Say what you will, making marriage work is a woman's business. The institution was invented to do her homage; it was contrived for her protection. Unless she accepts it as such --as a beautiful, bountiful, but quite unequal association --the going will be hard indeed.” quote by Phyllis McGinley
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“Say what you will, making marriage work is a woman's business. The institution was invented to do her homage; it was contrived for her protection. Unless she accepts it as such --as a beautiful, bountiful, but quite unequal association --the going will be hard indeed.”

Phyllis McGinley

About This Quote

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

The quote argues that marriage traditionally places the burden of its success on women, framing it as both a duty and a protective institution, yet acknowledges its inherent inequality.

In simple terms: Marriage is seen as a woman's responsibility and a protective but unequal partnership.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and address gender imbalances in relationships.

Themes

gender roles marriage inequality protection social expectations

Mood

reflective critical

Type

social commentary gender analysis

When to use this quote

  • marriage counseling
  • relationship education
  • women's rights advocacy

Key Concepts

patriarchal structures gender dynamics social contracts

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can modern couples share marital responsibilities?
  • What reforms can make marriage more equitable?
A Different Perspective

The quote overlooks men's agency and evolving partnership models.

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