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Eye Quote by Charles Lamb

“Men marry for fortune, and sometimes to please their fancy; but, much oftener than is suspected, they consider what the world will say of it--how such a woman in their friends' eyes will look at the head of a table. Hence we see so many insipid beauties made wives of, that could not have struck…” quote by Charles Lamb
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“Men marry for fortune, and sometimes to please their fancy; but, much oftener than is suspected, they consider what the world will say of it--how such a woman in their friends' eyes will look at the head of a table. Hence we see so many insipid beauties made wives of, that could not have struck the particular fancy of any man that had any fancy at all.”

Charles Lamb

About This Quote

Source Essay: Essays of Elia, 1823

People often marry for status and to impress others, not for genuine attraction, leading to unfulfilling unions.

In simple terms: Marriages driven by image, not love, cause dissatisfaction.

Key Takeaway

Seek partners for love, not reputation.

Themes

marriage status social pressure

Mood

reflective critical

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • family gatherings
  • dating scenes
  • social events

Key Concepts

impression management authenticity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you value reputation over personal happiness?
  • How does societal pressure shape your relationship choices?
A Different Perspective

True love may be overlooked in favor of appearances.

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