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Boyfriend Quote by E. Lockhart

“We know what you are thinking. It is not girls who need lessons in how to talk on the telephone. We are experts at it. Some of us could even medal in it. The problem is the boys. And they need to shape up. True, true, true. However. The boys are not going to shape up. They are not going to read…” quote by E. Lockhart
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““We know what you are thinking. It is not girls who need lessons in how to talk on the telephone. We are experts at it. Some of us could even medal in it. The problem is the boys. And they need to shape up. True, true, true. However. The boys are not going to shape up. They are not going to read magazines or informational textbooks such as this one that tell them how to talk to girls on the telephone. And they are not going to magically figure out how to converse either. It is a demonstrated fact that even bona fide boyfriends such as Finn and Jackson and Kaleb are hit with paralyzing stupidity and boringness on the telephone, and you, my girlfriends, you are the only ones who can do anything about it. Some tried-and-true tips 1. No feelings. Not if you can possibly avoid it. Feelings in person only. 2. No long silences. The male of the species hates long silences. If he is silent, say, “I gotta go, I’ll see you later.” And hang up. This is mysterious and alluring. And if it is not, at least you don’t have any more awkwardness. 3. Some people will tell you that you shouldn’t call guys, you should wait for them to call you. Hello? This is the twenty-first century. We can call them. 4. But have a reason. Don’t call “just to talk,” because they have nothing to talk about. Have a story to tell them, or ask if they watched some TV show just now, or ask about homework, or make a plan for the weekend.””

E. Lockhart

About This Quote

The speaker humorously critiques male telephone communication, offering blunt, gender‑stereotyped advice for women to manage conversations with men.

In simple terms: Women are advised to control phone talks with men using practical, often dismissive tactics.

Key Takeaway

Apply clear, purposeful strategies when navigating awkward calls.

Themes

communication gender dynamics relationships

Mood

frustrated amused critical

Type

advice humorous relationship

When to use this quote

  • dating
  • phone etiquette
  • conflict avoidance
  • assertiveness

Key Concepts

social expectations stereotypes relationship advice

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you adapt these tips without reinforcing stereotypes?
  • What alternative approaches foster mutual respect?
A Different Perspective

The advice relies on broad stereotypes and may not reflect individual differences.

3.9 out of 5 (9 ratings)

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