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An Odonian undertook monogamy just as he might undertake a…

“An Odonian undertook monogamy just as he might undertake a joint enterprise in production, a ballet or a soap-works. Partnership was a voluntarily constituted federation like any other. So long as it worked, it worked, and if it didn't work it stopped being. It was not an institution but a…” quote by Ursula K. Le Guin
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““An Odonian undertook monogamy just as he might undertake a joint enterprise in production, a ballet or a soap-works. Partnership was a voluntarily constituted federation like any other. So long as it worked, it worked, and if it didn't work it stopped being. It was not an institution but a function. It had no sanction but that of private conscience.””

Ursula K. Le Guin

About This Quote

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

Partnerships are voluntary, functional unions that exist as long as they work, without institutional constraints, guided by personal conscience.

In simple terms: Partnerships work while useful, then end.

Key Takeaway

Form flexible, purposeful partnerships.

Themes

relationships collaboration freedom

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • business ventures
  • artistic collaborations
  • friendships
  • communal projects

Key Concepts

social contracts voluntary association

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes a partnership sustainable?
  • When should a partnership be dissolved?
A Different Perspective

May ignore power imbalances that can arise.

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