Friendship Quote by Curtis Sittenfield
““And as for Martha-I never understood when I was at Ault why she liked me as much as I liked her. Even now, I'm still not sure. I couldn't give back half of what she gave me, and that fact should have knocked off the balance between us, but it didn't, and I don't know why not…But she had liked me before I became likable; that was the confusing part…Martha was the closest friend I'd ever had; I was, as always, preoccupied by the present moment; and I was too young then to understand how simple facts of geography and time can separate people.””
About This Quote
A deep, unreciprocated friendship leaves lingering confusion about why balance persists despite perceived inequity.
In simple terms: Friendship can feel unbalanced yet endure.
Accept that some bonds defy simple accounting.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- reflecting on past friendships
- journaling feelings
- seeking closure
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you value a friendship beyond equal exchange?
- What does “balance” mean in emotional bonds?
Human relationships often involve unspoken give‑and‑take that logic can't explain.