The ordinary marriage is an unconscious bondage: you…
“The ordinary marriage is an unconscious bondage: you cannot live alone so you become dependent on the other; the other cannot live alone so he or she becomes dependent on you. And we hate the person on which we are dependent; nobody likes to depend on anybody. Our deepest desire is to have freedom, total freedom - and dependence is against freedom.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human relationships often create mutual dependence, which conflicts with our innate craving for absolute freedom.
In simple terms: We become dependent on each other, which feels like a loss of freedom.
Recognize and balance interdependence with personal autonomy.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- marriage
- friendship
- work teams
- family dynamics
- personal growth
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you maintain autonomy while nurturing close bonds?
- What dependencies enrich rather than restrict you?
Total freedom may be unrealistic; some dependence can be supportive.